People with mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne may benefit from
Azelex® (
azelaic acid cream). This product is approved for use in adults and children as young as 12 years old.
Although it is not exactly clear how this medicine works for treating acne, Azelex is thought have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also work by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells.
Azelex is specifically designed to treat inflammatory acne, which involves large and painful bumps on the skin. This type of acne is more serious and painful than noninflammatory acne, which mainly consists of whiteheads and blackheads.
Unlike many other medications used for acne, Azelex does not bleach fabrics. This can be a major advantage, especially for people who need to treat the back or chest. Many people also find that Azelex is gentler on the skin than other
acne medications.
(For more details on using this skin cream, click Azelex Uses. This resource takes a closer look at how this prescription medicine works, whether it is safe for children, and possible off-label uses of the drug.)