Authority source
Safety basis: EFSA
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority)
Azelaic acid
Azelaic acid (C9H14O3)Azelaic acid (E 346)Azelaic acid (INCI: Azelaic acid)
Antimicrobial agent
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in wheat, rye, and barley. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
What it is
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Found in
skincare products, acne treatments, rosacea treatments, hair care products
The concern
No significant concerns identified
Legal status
Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products by FDA, EU/EFSA, and other regulatory agencies.
Low Concern
Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Video explainer
AZELAIC ACID - IS IT WORTH THE HYPE? | Dermatologists Explain
Video
Doctorly
Watch videoCommunity questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.
Tea Tree Oil
Another antimicrobial agent in the reviewed ingredient set.
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Glycolic Acid
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Lactic Acid
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Tranexamic Acid
A related active ingredient often compared for exfoliation, brightening, or pigment concerns.
Alpha Arbutin
A related active ingredient often compared for exfoliation, brightening, or pigment concerns.
Last updated: June 6, 2026