How to replace your Dermatica azelaic acid formula

Table of Content:
Can I get the same azelaic acid formula? | Miiskin vs. Dermatica: How do their azelaic acid formulas compare? | Can I replace my Dermatica azelaic acid formula with an FDA-approved medication? | What ingredients can be combined with azelaic acid? | How do I replace my Dermatica azelaic acid prescription online? | How much does it cost? | FAQ

With Dermatica closing its US operations on December 16, 2026, customers who were using Dermatica’s azelaic acid formulas may be wondering how to continue their skincare routine. Fortunately, azelaic acid remains available in the United States, both as a standalone treatment and as an ingredient in customized prescription formulas.

Through Miiskin, former Dermatica customers can connect with an independent, board-certified dermatologist who can review their previous prescription and determine whether to prescribe a similar customized formula or an FDA-approved azelaic acid medication.

Can I get the same azelaic acid formula I got from Dermatica?

In most cases, yes. Many of the ingredients previously used in Dermatica’s customized azelaic acid formulas are also available through Miiskin, so you may be able to continue using the same or a similar prescription.

When starting your consultation through Miiskin, include the ingredients and concentrations from your previous Dermatica prescription so your dermatologist can review them and consider your treatment preferences. Customized formulas available through Miiskin can contain up to five active ingredients, allowing dermatologists to tailor prescriptions to individual skin needs.

Your chosen board-certified dermatologist will review your previous prescription and take your preferences into consideration. However, the final prescription will depend on their independent medical judgment. They may prescribe the same formula, a similar combination of ingredients or a different formula they consider better suited to your skin. 

Miiskin also provides access to FDA-approved azelaic acid medications, including azelaic acid 15% gel and foam and azelaic acid 20% cream. These products have different FDA-approved indications, so your dermatologist will determine whether one of these options or a customized formula is most appropriate for your skin condition.

Can I replace my Dermatica azelaic acid formula with an FDA-approved medication?

Yes. Depending on your skin condition, a dermatologist may recommend an FDA-approved azelaic acid medication instead of a customized compounded formula.

In the United States, prescription options include azelaic acid 15% gel and foam for inflammatory rosacea, and azelaic acid 20% cream for acne.

These are not necessarily interchangeable. The formulation, concentration and approved indication differ, and the dermatologist must determine which product is appropriate.

What ingredients can be combined with azelaic acid in a customized formula?

Azelaic acid is often used alongside other dermatologic ingredients, depending on the condition being treated.

A dermatologist may consider combinations involving:

• Niacinamide: Often included in skincare formulas targeting uneven tone and supporting skin barrier function.
• Tretinoin: A prescription retinoid used for acne and certain pigmentation or photoaging concerns.
• Tranexamic acid: Sometimes included in customized formulas for hyperpigmentation and melasma.
• Hydroquinone: A prescription depigmenting ingredient that may be considered for selected pigmentation concerns.
• Other prescription ingredients: Selected according to the diagnosis and individual treatment needs.

These are examples of possible compounded ingredients, not a guarantee that a particular combination is available or suitable for everyone.

The dermatologist will determine whether azelaic acid should be prescribed alone or in combination with other active ingredients.

How do I replace my Dermatica azelaic acid prescription online?

Replacing your Dermatica prescription through Miiskin is straightforward and does not require scheduling a video appointment.

1. Choose your state and skin concern. Start an online consultation through Miiskin and select your state and the condition you want assessed, such as acne, rosacea or hyperpigmentation.
2. Submit photographs and treatment information. Include your symptoms, medical history and details of your previous Dermatica azelaic acid formula, including ingredient concentrations if available.
3. Receive your dermatologist’s assessment. Your dermatologist will review your submission and issue a prescription for a similar customized formula, if medically appropriate.
4. Purchase your medication. You can buy your FDA-approved medication at a local pharmacy or have a customized formula prepared and delivered by Foothills Pharmacy.

Miiskin dermatologists typically respond within 24–48 hours. You can return to the same dermatologist for future consultations and prescription renewals.

How much does it cost to replace a Dermatica azelaic acid formula?

Through Miiskin, a new dermatology consultation costs $59-$79 (depending on the dermatologist you choose). Future prescription renewal consultations cost $39-$49, provided the prescription was previously issued through Miiskin.

The cost of your medication depends on the type of azelaic acid treatment your dermatologist prescribes:

• Customized azelaic acid formula: Most customized formulas cost approximately $48.99 for 30 grams, purchased separately from the consultation.
• Generic azelaic acid 15% gel: Approximately $10-$55 for 50 grams when using prescription discount coupons, depending on the pharmacy.
• Azelaic acid 20% cream: There is currently no widely marketed FDA-approved generic equivalent in the US. The branded medication, Azelex, is considerably more expensive.

Unlike Dermatica’s former subscription model, Miiskin does not require recurring membership payments or automatic medication shipments, users can buy their medication only as needed.

Can I have my customized azelaic acid formula delivered to my home?

Yes. If your dermatologist prescribes a customized azelaic acid formula, Foothills Pharmacy can prepare the medication and ship it directly to your home for free. This service is available nationwide.

This offers a similar home-delivery experience to Dermatica’s former prescription skincare service, but without requiring a medication subscription.

Rather than receiving automatic deliveries every two months, you can purchase medication when needed, subject to your prescription and the pharmacy’s dispensing requirements.

If your dermatologist prescribes a standard FDA-approved azelaic acid medication instead, you can choose your preferred pharmacy.

Is Miiskin a good alternative for former Dermatica azelaic acid users?

Miiskin is a strong alternative for former Dermatica customers who want to continue azelaic acid treatment while having more flexibility over their dermatology care.

Like Dermatica, Miiskin offers asynchronous, photo-based consultations and access to customized prescription skincare. However, Miiskin also allows users to choose their own board-certified dermatologist and return to the same dermatologist for future consultations.

Other differences include the ability to obtain FDA-approved medications instead of compounded formulas, choose a pharmacy for standard prescriptions and purchase customized formulas without automatic deliveries.

For users who previously relied on a Dermatica azelaic acid formula, the first step is to submit their previous prescription details for review. Their dermatologist can then determine whether continuing a similar formula or switching to another treatment is appropriate.

References

1. https://www.dermatica.com/ingredients/
2. https://www.dermatica.com/shop/azelaic-acid
3. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/2015/207071Orig1s000PharmR.pdf
4. https://www.rosacea.org/patients/management-options/fda-approved-rosacea-treatments
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5367880/