There’s a new buzz in the skincare community. For years, ANUA’s TXA Serum was the undisputed hero of the brand’s lineup – but lately, another product has been stealing the spotlight: the Azelaic Acid Hyaluron Soothing Serum. Skincare lovers can’t stop raving about its ability to calm redness, minimise breakouts, fade dark spots, and soothe easily irritated skin. Could this be the multi-tasking solution sensitive skin has been waiting for? Let’s take a closer look at the science behind Azelaic Acid, the formula of the serum itself, and how to make the most of this product.

What Is Azelaic Acid?

Azelaic Acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that can be found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley. Interestingly, it’s also produced by the yeast Malassezia furfur, a normal resident of healthy skin. Originally discovered by scientists studying pigmentation disorders, Azelaic Acid has since become a skincare staple thanks to its ability to address several common concerns at once – particularly acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.

What does Azelaic Acid do for skin?

Azelaic Acid is beloved for its gentle yet effective exfoliating properties. It helps dislodge dead skin cells that can clog pores, refine bumpy texture, and reveal smoother, healthier-looking skin underneath. Its antibacterial action targets acne-causing bacteria, while its anti-inflammatory properties calm irritation and reduce redness – a combination that makes it ideal for breakout-prone and rosacea-prone skin.

Beyond clearing and calming, Azelaic Acid is also a brightening powerhouse. By inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, it can fade stubborn post-acne marks and other types of hyperpigmentation over time. As an antioxidant, it neutralises free radicals that contribute to skin inflammation and premature ageing, making it a gentler alternative to Vitamin C for those with sensitive complexions.

Because Azelaic Acid is keratolytic, it helps prevent pores from becoming congested in the first place—addressing one of the root causes of breakouts. It also has a soothing effect on the skin, making it an excellent companion for more potent actives like retinoids, which can sometimes cause dryness and irritation.

Who is Azelaic Acid good for? 

Almost anyone can benefit from incorporating Azelaic Acid into their routine, but it’s especially well-suited to those struggling with acne, rosacea, redness, or uneven skin tone. Its gentle nature means that even sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well. Studies have shown that consistent use can lead to a visible reduction in redness and bumps associated with rosacea. Many users also note that their skin feels calmer, softer, and more even-textured after regular use.

Side Effects of Azelaic Acid

While Azelaic Acid is considered one of the more skin-friendly acids, mild side effects can occur when you first start using it. These include tingling, dryness, itchiness, or light peeling as your skin adjusts. Some users also experience “purging,” where underlying congestion surfaces as temporary breakouts. This phase usually passes within a few weeks, revealing a clearer complexion underneath. To minimise irritation, avoid pairing it with harsh scrubs, alcohol-based cleansers, or multiple exfoliating actives in the same routine.

Inside ANUA’s Azelaic Acid Hyaluron Soothing Serum

ANUA’s serum is formulated with 10% Azelaic Acid, a concentration that strikes the perfect balance between effectiveness and tolerability. Its lightweight, water-like texture absorbs quickly and doesn’t clog pores, making it ideal for delicate and acne-prone skin. The formula is rounded out with deeply hydrating Sodium Hyaluronate, which pulls moisture into the skin for a plump, refreshed feel, and ANUA’s Gentle Calming Complex™, a soothing blend of Blue Tansy Oil, Green Tea Leaf Water, Aloe Leaf Juice, Ubiquinone, and 7 types of Centella Asiatica. Together, these ingredients work to strengthen the skin barrier, calm irritation, and deliver long-lasting hydration.

The serum’s naturally derived green tint comes from its calming botanicals, and clinical studies have shown that it can visibly reduce redness after 4 weeks of consistent use. Many users with sensitive, acne-prone, or rosacea-prone skin report clearer, more even-toned complexions, with fewer flare-ups and a noticeable reduction in post-inflammatory erythema (PIE).

What Are People Saying?

Feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive. On Reddit and TikTok, many praise the serum for calming inflammation and shortening the lifespan of their breakouts. Those dealing with redness or rosacea report that their skin feels more comfortable and less reactive, while others highlight its brightening effects on dark marks. Some mention a brief adjustment period involving mild purging, but the majority agree that the benefits outweigh these minor inconveniences. One user even described it as “life-changing,” noting that their post-acne marks faded far faster than usual in hot, humid conditions.

How to Use ANUA’s Azelaic Acid Hyaluron Soothing Serum

Introduce Azelaic Acid gradually to avoid overwhelming your skin. Start by applying 1-2 drops of the serum after cleansing and toning, once or twice a week. Pat gently until absorbed, then follow with your favourite moisturiser. As your skin adjusts, you can increase usage to up to 5 drops twice daily. Because Azelaic Acid may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, daily SPF is essential.

Why We Love It

At Skin Cupid, we love products that deliver real results while being kind to sensitive skin, and ANUA’s Azelaic Acid Hyaluron Soothing Serum ticks all the boxes. It’s clinically backed, thoughtfully formulated, and proven to visibly soothe troubled areas. Whether you’re battling breakouts, struggling with redness, or simply want a more balanced complexion, this serum is a worthy addition to your routine!