Get Azelaic acid 20%

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Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Patrick Mahar
Dermatologist

What is azelaic acid 20% and what is it used for?

Azelaic acid 20% is a topical skin treatment primarily used to address conditions like acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. It has a slightly stronger concentration than the commonly available 15% formula, which may make it more effective for individuals with moderate to severe skin concerns.

How is azelaic acid 20% commonly used?

Acne treatment: Azelaic acid 20% works by targeting Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, which cause inflammation and breakouts. It also helps prevent pores from becoming clogged, reducing the frequency of new acne lesions.
Rosacea management: Its anti-inflammatory properties can significantly reduce redness, swelling, and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea, making it a good option for people prone to facial redness.
Hyperpigmentation reduction: Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for melanin production. This makes it effective in lightening dark spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), resulting in a more even skin tone.

Because azelaic acid 20% is a stronger concentration, it may increase the likelihood of mild irritation, such as stinging or dryness. As with all topical treatments, it’s recommended to use it as directed by a healthcare provider and to monitor for any signs of irritation, adjusting usage frequency as needed.

Benefits of azelaic acid 20%

Reduces inflammation

Balances oil production

Fights bacteria

Gentle on sensitive skin

How to get azelaic acid 20% online

Do you need a prescription to buy azelaic acid 20%?
Yes, azelaic acid at 20% concentration is prescription-only. You’ll need a prescription from a licensed provider to access this strength.

How to obtain a prescription for azelaic acid 20% online?

You can schedule an online consultation with a board-certified dermatologist through platforms like Miiskin. During the consultation, the dermatologist will evaluate your skin needs and, if appropriate, provide a prescription for azelaic acid 20%. The prescription can be sent directly to your chosen local or online pharmacy, allowing for prompt and convenient access to the product.

What is the cost of an online consultation for an azelaic acid prescription?

The cost for an online consultation to obtain a 20% azelaic acid prescription typically starts at $39 for renewals for existing patients and $59 for new patients. To reduce expenses, consider requesting a generic form of azelaic acid, which may be available at a lower price at your pharmacy.

Get an azelaic acid 20 prescription via Miiskin

Select “Start consultation” to sign up.
Fill out the consultation form and take photos of your skin.
An independent dermatologist will prescribe azelaic acid 20 to you, if medically appropriate.
Buy azelaic acid 20 affordably from the pharmacy of your choice.

Process to getting Azelaic acid 20
You will connect with a dermatologist via an online consultation. Upon reviewing your case, if the dermatologist determines that azelaic acid cream is safe and appropriate for you, they will issue a prescription to the pharmacy of your choosing.

What patients say about Miiskin

Very happy with this service. Quick and easy. With someone with not the greatest insurance and super busy. This was perfect. Got my prescription next day and great advice for my condition.

Marcus Liniarski,
Patient Review →

I had a great experience with Miiskin – I was able to get my prescription very quickly and their app is easy to use. It was very convenient and their team is very responsive. I highly recommend them and will likely use them in the future for other skin issues.

Susie Tse,
Patient Review →

What a technology! I was very impressed by the speed of communication with a doctor using the Miiskin app. Losing my hair has been my biggest concern, but I didn’t have the courage to reveal my bald spot to a doctor in person. Miiskin solved all my issues instantly. I just took a photo in my own room, uploaded it, and wrote about my concerns. That’s it. The best part is that without insurance, the consultation fee was much lower than any health insurance. I submitted my photo at midnight and received a prescription the very next morning. The doctor at Miiskin was very professional and empathetic, which really helped ease my emotional distress. Although I’m just at the beginning stage of my treatment and haven’t seen significant results yet, I feel reassured and supported. I will definitely upload my progress in 3 to 4 months to show my appreciation for the prescription from Miiskin.

Jiyeon Kang,
Patient Review →

My dermatologist was extremely quick, reviewed my consultation request within 2hrs and I had my Rx the next day! The Miiskin team also responds within minutes and are very polite and communicated concisely. I’ll never make a in person appointment again after experiencing this outstanding and affordable telehealth service!

Dion H,
Patient Review →

Quick response from the dermatologist — I wanted a fast turnaround for a skin concern that would be more immediate than going through health insurance, making an appointment, traveling to the doctor.

Timothy C.
Patient Review →

Azelaic acid 20% gel vs azelaic acid 20% cream

Azelaic acid 20% is available in both gel and cream forms, each suited for different skin types and specific concerns. Here are the main differences between the gel and cream formulations to help determine which might work best for you.

Side effects of azelaic acid 20%

Dryness
Redness
Peeling
Skin irritation
Burning
Stinging¹

Provider & Prescription Information

Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their own private practices. Miiskin does not employ dermatologists and does not sell or distribute medications. Any prescriptions issued by the dermatologists can be filled at third-party pharmacies of the patient’s choice.

Got more questions about azelaic acid 20%?

What is the price of azelaic acid 20%?

At the moment azelaic acid 20% is only sold under brand Azelex and the price varies between $500 to $700. However, you can get a personalized prescription skincare via Skin Medicinals which is much more affordable.

Can you buy azelaic acid 20% over the counter?

No, you need a prescription to buy azelaic acid 20%, however you can buy azelaic acid over the counter in concentrations less than 10%.

Is 20% azelaic acid strong?

Azelaic acid 20% is generally well-tolerated, though it is a higher concentration and can be more potent than the 10% or 15% options available over the counter. Most people can use it without significant irritation, but those with sensitive skin might experience initial dryness, tingling, or redness, which usually decreases as the skin adjusts.

How long does it take to see results from 20% azelaic acid?

Results from azelaic acid 20% can begin to show in 4–8 weeks with consistent use, although improvements in skin tone and texture may take up to 12 weeks. For issues like acne and hyperpigmentation, it is essential to use it regularly and be patient, as its effects build over time.

Can I use 20% azelaic acid daily?

Yes, 20% azelaic acid can be used daily. Many people start with once-a-day applications and increase to twice daily if well-tolerated. If any irritation occurs, using it every other day or mixing it with a moisturizer can help reduce sensitivity.

Is azelaic acid better than topical spironolactone for acne?

Azelaic acid and topical spironolactone both help with acne but in different ways. Azelaic acid targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces redness, while spironolactone primarily reduces oil production. Azelaic acid may be better suited for inflammatory acne and sensitive skin, while spironolactone is often effective for hormonal acne.

Is azelaic acid better than tretinoin?

Azelaic acid and tretinoin offer distinct benefits: azelaic acid is effective for sensitive skin, redness, and hyperpigmentation, while tretinoin is a powerful treatment for acne, wrinkles, and skin texture. For anti-aging and more severe acne, tretinoin may be stronger, though it is also more likely to cause irritation.

Is azelaic acid better than tranexamic acid for hyperpigmentation?

Azelaic acid and tranexamic acid both treat hyperpigmentation, but azelaic acid has additional anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it effective for acne-prone skin. Tranexamic acid may be more targeted for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation specifically, so they can work well together or be chosen based on specific needs.

Is azelaic acid better than clindamycin for acne?

Azelaic acid and clindamycin both fight acne-causing bacteria, but azelaic acid also reduces redness and hyperpigmentation. Clindamycin is a targeted antibiotic treatment and may work faster for bacterial acne, though resistance can develop over time. Azelaic acid, being non-antibiotic, may be better suited for long-term use.

Can I use 20% azelaic acid daily?

Yes, 20% azelaic acid can be used daily, starting with once-daily application to see how your skin reacts. If well-tolerated, you may increase to twice daily. If irritation occurs, consider applying it every other day or mixing it with a moisturizer to reduce sensitivity.

Is azelaic acid 20% used for hyperpigmentation?

Yes, azelaic acid 20% is commonly used for hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting excess melanin production, helping to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. This makes it particularly helpful for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and conditions like melasma.

What is Miiskin?

Miiskin is platform that connects patients with independent providers for convenient quality medical care for skin health issues.

References:
¹https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/azelaic-acid-topical-route/description/drg-20062084