Can azelaic acid be used in the morning and tretinoin at night?

Question

Hello can azelaic acid and tretinoin be used together? I don’t mean together at the same time . I mean by using one in the Morning and the other at night. Azelaic acid in the AM, and the tretinoin in the PM in the fight against acne? I would really appreciate and answer if possible. also does azelaic acid help with fine lines and wrinkles as to a certain extent?

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  It would be fine to use azelaic acid in the mornings and tretinoin, or retin-a, at night.  Azelaic acid can be helpful for acne, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, but really doesn't have any effect on fine lines and wrinkles.  The tretinoin is your helper for fine lines and wrinkles, so keep that up!  Be sure to wear a good quality sunscreen over the azelaic acid in the mornings.  Look for something with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in it to provide broad spectrum physical sun blocking, and that will reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in case your acne tends to be scarring or leaves dark marks.  Best of luck!

John Quinn, MBChB · Answer

In my experience, retinoids like tretinoin and azelaic acid work really well together. I recommend getting yourself established on one or the other first, then adding the second. This is because any topical medication can cause irritation. This is particularly true for retinoids.
I often prescribe azelaic acid as it tends to work well for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma, in addition to its positive effects for acne vulgaris. I don’t see a major effect on fine lines and wrinkles in my patients.

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes azelaic acid can be used in the morning and tretinoin cream at night, however, a common side effect of both medications is dryness, irritation, peeling, etc. I recommend consulting with your dermatologist regarding any further questions and concerns. Take care and good luck.

Can azelaic acid be used in the morning and tretinoin at night?

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Can azelaic acid be used in the morning and tretinoin at night?

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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