Get an azelaic acid prescription
*Average online dermatologist response time from July-September 2026: 18.6 hours
- Board-certified dermatologists
- No medication subscriptions
- Choice of generic or customized formulas
Azelaic acid is commonly prescribed by dermatologists as part of treatment for the conditions below.
Table of Content:
How to get azelaic acid online? | Treatment options? | Popular customized formulas | How to get a prescription? | How does Miiskin compare to other services? | What is Azelaic acid? | Benefits | How does it work? | Strengths | Warnings | Side effects | Azelaic acid and other medications | FAQ
How to get azelaic acid online?
Azelaic acid is available over the counter in lower strengths, but higher concentrations, such as azelaic acid 15% and azelaic acid 20%, require a prescription in the US. It is commonly used to treat acne, rosacea, and certain types of hyperpigmentation. Through Miiskin, you can consult a board-certified dermatologist licensed in your state without a video call. If prescription-strength azelaic acid is suitable for your skin, your dermatologist can send a prescription to your preferred pharmacy, typically within 24–48 hours.
Submit your skin concern
Complete a short medical questionnaire and upload a few photos of your skin. The process takes about 5 minutes, with no video appointment necessary.
Dermatologist review
A board-certified dermatologist licensed in your state reviews your photos, symptoms, and medical history to determine whether azelaic acid is appropriate. Average response time is less than 24 hours.
Get your treatment plan
If suitable, your dermatologist can prescribe azelaic acid 15%, 20%, or a customized formula. Have your prescription sent to your preferred pharmacy for local pickup or home delivery.
Azelaic acid treatment options
You can request FDA-approved azelaic acid or a customized azelaic acid formula. Your dermatologist will recommend what’s best for your skin.
FDA-approved azelaic acid
You can choose generic or brand-name azelaic acid, which can be filled at any pharmacy nationwide. FDA-approved azelaic acid has been reviewed for safety, effectiveness and quality, and has been used in dermatology since 1995 to treat acne and rosacea.
- Azelaic acid 15% gel (Generic Finacea®)
- Finacea® (Azelaic acid 15% gel or foam)
- Azelex® (Azelaic acid 20% cream)
Prescribed only if medically appropriate. Your dermatologist decides which product and strength fits your skin.
Customized azelaic acid formulas
Customized formulas combine azelaic acid with other active ingredients in one product tailored to your skin. They’re prepared by our trusted partner, Foothills Pharmacy, and delivered to your door. Most formulas are $48.99 with delivery included.
- Tretinoin
- Niacinamide
- Kojic acid
- Tranexamic acid
- Sodium hyaluronate
- Ascorbic acid
- Hydroquinone
- Hydrocortisone
- Ivermectin
- Metronidazole
Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
Azelaic acid formulas commonly prescribed
Azelaic acid + Tretinoin +
Niacinamide + Sodium hyaluronate
Price: $48.99 for 30gr
Use: anti-aging/acne
Azelaic acid + Kojic acid +
Niacinamide
Price: $48.99 for 30gr
Use: acne/dark spots
Azelaic acid + Tranexamic acid +
Niacinamide
Price: $48.99 for 30gr
Use: acne/dark spots
Azelaic acid + Niacinamide
Price: $48.99 for 30gr
Use: acne/dark spots
Azelaic acid + Tretinoin
Price: $48.99 for 30gr
Use: acne/dark spots
Product packaging shown for visual reference only.
How to get a prescription for azelaic acid online?
You can have a consultation with a dermatologist through Miiskin. After reviewing your case, the dermatologist will assess whether medication is safe and appropriate for you. If so, they will send a prescription to the pharmacy you select.
What is the price of an azelaic acid prescription?
A consultation through Miiskin is $59 – $79 for new patients and around $39 – $49 for for prescription renewals.
How to get my azelaic acid online?
Your dermatologist can issue a prescription to any pharmacy you want. If you are interested in a compounded formula, choose Foothills as your preferred pharmacy.
Most Foothills formulas are $48.99 with a few advanced formulas priced at $58.99 this price includes free shipping.
Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
How does Miiskin compare to other online services for azelaic acid?
Most online skincare services offer azelaic acid only in their own compounded formulas, sold by subscription. Here’s how Miiskin compares on the things that matter when you’re getting an azelaic acid prescription online.
Swipe to compare →
| Feature | Miiskin | Nurx | Agency | Hers | Curology |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Provider type | Board-certified dermatologist | Physician, NP or PA | Physician, NP or PA | Physician or NP | Physician, NP or PA |
| Choose your dermatologist | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Generic (FDA-approved) azelaic acid | Yes | No** | No* | No* | No* |
| Customized azelaic acid formulas | Yes | No** | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Choice of pharmacy | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Buy without a subscription | Yes | No | No | No | No |
* Azelaic acid is offered only in compounded custom formulas. Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
** Offers azelaic acid only in one fixed compounded formula, not a formula customized to you. Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
What is azelaic acid and what is it used for?
Azelaic acid is used for the treatment of mild to moderately inflamed acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation and it is available as a cream, gel and foam1.
The Azelaic acid gel and foam forms are used to alleviate the bumps, lesions, and swelling induced by rosacea—a skin condition marked by facial redness, flushing, and pimples.
The azelaic acid cream is formulated to address the pimples and swelling associated with acne.
Benefits of Azelaic Acid
Anti-inflammatory properties
Regulates sebum production
Antibacterial effects
Suitable for sensitive skin
Azelaic acid explained
How do azelaic acid creams and gels work?
Azelaic acid creams work by addressing multiple skin issues, making them effective for conditions like acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. They help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin, while their anti-inflammatory properties calm redness and swelling, which is especially beneficial for sensitive skin.
Azelaic acid also encourages cell turnover and gently exfoliates, helping to clear existing acne and prevent future breakouts. Additionally, it reduces melanin production, gradually fading dark spots and evening out skin tone. Overall, azelaic acid is a gentle yet effective treatment option for improving acne and discoloration across various skin types.
Common Azelaic acid strengths
Azelaic Acid 10%
Azelaic acid 10% concentration is mild and often found in over-the-counter products. This strength is suitable for those with sensitive skin or people new to azelaic acid, as it allows for gentle treatment of concerns like mild acne, redness, and uneven skin tone with minimal risk of irritation. It’s often recommended for everyday maintenance of clear and balanced skin.
Azelaic Acid 15%
Azelaic acid 15% provides a moderate-strength option, commonly prescribed to address moderate acne, rosacea, and noticeable pigmentation issues. This concentration works faster than azelaic acid 10% formulations, delivering more visible results while remaining suitable for regular use. Although it may cause mild dryness or tingling, these effects are usually manageable with proper moisturization.
Azelaic Acid 20%
Azelaic acid 20% is a high-strength formulation, typically used for more stubborn skin concerns, such as persistent acne, prominent hyperpigmentation, or more severe rosacea. This prescription-strength concentration is powerful in reducing bacteria and fading dark spots, making it ideal for individuals with challenging skin concerns. While it can cause side effects like dryness or irritation, these are generally manageable with careful application and guidance from a healthcare provider.
Warnings and Side Effects
Precautions when using azelaic acid
Azelaic acid can have a lightening effect on skin tone, so individuals with darker skin tones are advised to use it with caution.
This medication is generally safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding2, though it may cause allergic reactions in some cases. If you experience symptoms like skin itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling similar to hives, seek medical attention immediately.
Be attentive to any side effects that may arise. If your rosacea does not improve within 12 weeks, or if symptoms worsen, consult your healthcare provider. Azelaic acid is versatile and pairs well with other active ingredients. To learn more about using azelaic acid in combination with tretinoin, check out our article, How to use tretinoin and azelaic acid together?
Side effects of azelaic acid
- Dryness
- Redness
- Peeling
- Skin irritation
- Burning
- Stinging3
What ingredients can be combined with azelaic acid?
Sunscreen SPF 50
Hyaluronic acid
Non-greasy moisturizer
Azelaic acid
Niacinamide
Peptides
Ceramides
Which ingredients can be used with azelaic acid under medical supervision?
- Tretinoin
- Tazarotene
- Trifarotene
- Adapalene
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Glycolic acid
- Lactic acid
- Salicylic acid
References:
1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
2https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
3https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
4https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
5https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
6https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
7https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/553009
8https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5574737/
9https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00002512-199506060-00008
10https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225141/
11https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16045694/
12https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225141/
13https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/517/fetal-retinoid-syndrome
14https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26897386/
15https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
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