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If you’re building a skincare routine, you might wonder: can you use azelaic acid with retinol, or is that a recipe for irritation? Both are powerhouse ingredients — azelaic acid calms, brightens, and fights acne, while retinol speeds up cell turnover and smooths wrinkles. But do they actually play well together?
Here’s the quick answer: yes, you can use azelaic acid and retinol in the same routine — but how you layer them matters.
| Feature | The Ordinary Azelaic Acid | Anua Azelaic Acid |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Best for | Budget skincare lovers | Sensitive / redness-prone skin |
| Formula | 10% azelaic acid suspension | 10% azelaic acid + hyaluronic acid + calming botanicals |
| Texture | Creamy, slightly gritty | Lightweight, watery serum |
| Irritation Risk | Higher (minimal support ingredients) | Lower (hydration + soothing built-in) |
| Daily Use Comfort | Functional but not luxurious | Hydrating, comfortable, easy to layer |
| Price |  | |
Why You’d Want to Pair Them
Azelaic acid and retinol target different concerns, but together, they create a well-rounded routine:
- Azelaic acid: reduces redness, fights bacteria, and lightens dark spots.
- Retinol: boosts collagen, smooths fine lines, and unclogs pores.
👉 When combined thoughtfully, they address acne, uneven tone, and signs of aging all at once — without the need for a dozen separate serums.
The Risks of Using Them Together
Here’s the catch: both can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin.
- Overlapping effects: Retinol speeds up cell turnover, and azelaic acid mildly exfoliates too. Doubling up too quickly may lead to dryness, peeling, or redness.
- Barrier sensitivity: If your skin barrier is already compromised, layering both at once can make things worse.
👉 In other words: it’s not that they can’t be used together — it’s about introducing them gradually.
How to Use Azelaic Acid and Retinol Together
To minimize irritation and maximize results, follow these strategies:
- Alternate Nights
- Use retinol one night and azelaic acid the next. This gives your skin time to adjust while still reaping the benefits of both.
- Morning + Night Split
- Apply azelaic acid in the morning (it helps with redness and is antioxidant-friendly).
- Use retinol at night, when your skin naturally repairs itself.
- Layering in the Same Routine (Advanced Users)
- Cleanse → Azelaic acid → Wait a few minutes → Retinol → Moisturizer.
- Only try this once your skin is already comfortable with each ingredient on its own.
Who Should Avoid Combining Them?
- Ultra-sensitive skin: If even mild actives sting, start with one ingredient before introducing the other.
- Beginners: New to retinol? Don’t complicate things. Build tolerance first, then add azelaic acid later.
- Active-heavy routines: If you’re already using AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C, be extra careful not to overload your skin.
| Feature | The Ordinary Azelaic Acid | Naturium Azelaic Acid |
|---|---|---|
|  | |
| Best for | Budget skincare lovers | Skincare enthusiasts who want elegance + extras |
| Formula | 10% azelaic acid suspension | 10% azelaic acid emulsion + niacinamide + hydrators |
| Texture | Thick, sometimes gritty | Creamy, lightweight emulsion |
| Irritation Risk | Higher (minimal soothing) | Lower (built-in hydration + niacinamide) |
| Daily Use Comfort | Functional but not enjoyable | Smooth, elegant, easy layering |
| Price | | |
FAQs – Can You Use Azelaic Acid With Retinol?
Q: Should I use azelaic acid or retinol first?
If layering together, apply azelaic acid first (it absorbs quickly), then retinol, followed by moisturizer.
Q: Can azelaic acid reduce retinol irritation?
Yes — since it has anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid can help calm redness and balance retinol’s intensity.
Q: Can I use them both if I have acne?
Absolutely. Retinol prevents clogged pores, while azelaic acid tackles bacteria and post-acne marks. It’s a strong duo for acne-prone skin.
Q: Can I use them daily?
Eventually, yes. But build up tolerance slowly — start with alternating nights, then work up to daily if your skin can handle it.
Q: Should I wear sunscreen with this combo?
Always. Both ingredients make your skin more sun-sensitive, so daily SPF is non-negotiable.
Bottom Line
So, can you use azelaic acid with retinol? Yes — but the key is balance. Start slowly, alternate if needed, and always listen to your skin. Together, they can be a powerhouse combo for tackling breakouts, redness, fine lines, and uneven tone.
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About the Author
LuxuryShimmer delivers expert skincare advice with a beauty-magazine flair. We decode trendy ingredients and cult classics alike, so you know what’s safe to mix, skip, or splurge on.