Can I use The Ordinary Retinal with azelaic acid?

Using both is not the same as layering both

Azelaic acid has been used effectively alongside tretinoin cream in acne treatment. Tretinoin is a topical retinoid, but it is not The Ordinary Retinal. A compatible combination is not a family discount for every bottle with a similar name. The practical question is whether your specific formulas allow combined use, and whether the resulting routine is tolerable.1

What does azelaic acid add?

Azelaic acid helps with uneven skin tone and texture and offers mild exfoliation. It is neither an alpha hydroxy acid nor a beta hydroxy acid. Prescription azelaic acid also treats acne and rosacea, and can help with dark marks left after inflammation. Those uses give azelaic acid a reason to be in a routine beyond simply adding another active.34

The Ordinary's Azelaic Acid Suspension contains 10% azelaic acid. Clinical improvements in acne, rosacea and pigmentation have been reported with formulations containing 15% to 20%. Strength and formulation matter, so a cosmetic suspension and a prescription gel are not interchangeable just because the ingredient name matches.34

How should I put the routine together?

1. 1Identify your azelaic acid product. If it is prescribed, use the prescription label's schedule rather than borrowing directions for a cosmetic suspension.
2. 2Check the retinal directions for application frequency and conflicts. If either product's instructions are unclear, ask a pharmacist about the exact pair before layering them.
3. 3For prescription azelaic acid gel or cream, wash with a mild cleanser, pat dry and apply a thin layer to the affected skin. Keep it away from your eyes and mouth.
4. 4Wash your hands afterwards. Makeup can go on once prescription azelaic acid is dry.

Prescription azelaic acid is commonly applied morning and evening, but your prescribed schedule takes priority. A clinician can advise starting daily and increasing frequency as tolerance develops. More applications are not a shortcut to a better routine, despite the bottle having plenty left.12

What if the combination stings?

Azelaic acid can cause burning, stinging, itching and dryness. Initial burning or stinging often settles within one to four weeks; that is an adjustment period, not a deadline for visible results. Topical retinoids can also irritate skin. Tell your doctor if symptoms are severe or do not go away rather than increasing applications.12

If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding, discuss the whole combination with your doctor before starting it. Tell your prescriber about other medicines and skincare treatments. With prescription azelaic acid, report unexpected skin colour changes. Stop azelaic acid and seek immediate medical help for hives, swelling or trouble breathing or swallowing.2