As we transition into a new season, there’s no better time than the present to make sure your skincare arsenal is packed with hardworking products and ingredients.

Beauty experts at WeThrift recently revealed the most widely searched for skincare ingredients in the UK this year, and one of our favourites has made the cut.

Azelaic acid suits all skin types and is a dynamic antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and skin-friendly acid. As well as effectively calming inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea, it can also help improve an uneven skin tone, breakouts and pigmentation.

"Azelaic acid is also an excellent choice for clearing blemishes and skin imperfections," says Nurse Dawn Attewell, Founder of Dawn Attewell Aesthetics. "It contains antibacterial antioxidants that help unclog pores, making it a good ingredient for those who might suffer from spots or acne."
 
According to the WeThrift data, this sought after acid is one of the top 10 most googled ingredients with a total of 31,000 searches per month – with this in mind we’ve rounded up some products that we think should be on your radar…

Garden of Wisdom Azelaic Acid (PAD); victoriahealth.com

This power-packed, cruelty free product contains 12% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (PAD), a water-soluble azelaic acid derivative with a silky texture and super-hydrating properties. The gel has many benefits – as well as being antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, it unclogs pores, helps inhibit bacteria growth in follicles, improves an uneven skin tone, brightens and hydrates.  

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%; escentual.com

A great azelaic acid entry product, this affordable, multi-functional formula visibly brightens the skin while improving skin texture; it also acts as an effective antioxidant. The formula offers a decent 10% concentration of high-purity azelaic acid in a lightweight cream-gel system.

Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster

Helping fade brown spots, calm and reduce marks, this product is a veritable multi-tasker as well as being a great alternative for those sensitive to benzoyl peroxide. Suitable for all skin types, the combination of azelaic acid, salicylic acid and plant extracts has multiple skin benefits: it visibly fades brown spots caused by sun damage, works to reduce breakouts and diminishes red marks from past blemishes.

Dr Sam’s Flawless Brightly Serum

Dr Sam Bunting calls azelaic acid "my acid with Extra" as it tackles pigmentation and redness, clears pores and reduces the appearance of blemishes. Containing 10% azelaic acid and 5% niacinamide for further pore-unclogging benefits, this amplified active evens out skin tone and calms bumps – it’s also non-comedogenic, fragrance free and cruelty free.  

The Inkey List 10% Azelaic Acid Serum

Combining 10% azelaic acid with skin soothing allantoin, this gentle serum helps to visibly reduce the appearance of redness for a more even skin tone, and instantly calms irritated skin. Created in partnership with dermatologists and suitable for rosacea-prone skin, the formula contains micro-fine green colour particles to mask high colour and blotchiness, and can be easily layered with other products.

Skinceuticals Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment; johnbellcroyden.co.uk

Want to gradually introduce azelaic acid into your regime? Try this brightening moisturiser, which soothes, boosts radiance and helps correct out of balance skin. Containing 3% azelaic acid, the non-oily formulation also helps improve the appearance of visible redness and discolouration, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Klira; klira.skin

Created by Dermatologist Dr Emma Craythorne, subscription-based skincare company Klira decodes your unique skin type by way of an online diagnostic consultation, before delivering a tailored routine and product. Craythorne believes that, "despite all the hype around wonder ingredients, there are only a handful that actually have the power to change your skin," and one of the star ingredients in Klira's custom blends is azelaic acid; the prescribed dose is between 10% and 20%, the latter normally only available on prescription.