Can you use azelaic acid with centella asiatica?
Reasoning: why this verdict
There is no known conflict between azelaic acid and centella asiatica. Both are generally well tolerated.
Who should be careful: People with very sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema should patch test new products first.
How to use azelaic acid and centella asiatica together
- Layer from thinnest to thickest texture.
- Finish with moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning.
Products with azelaic acid
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Picked for azelaic acid
10% azelaic acid in a smooth, silicone-based cream suspension.
Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)About the ingredients
Azelaic Acid
A multitasking acid for acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation. Usually well tolerated, though it can tingle at first.
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
A soothing plant extract (also called cica or gotu kola). Its compounds, such as madecassoside and asiaticoside, are studied for calming and repairing skin, mostly in lab work so far.
Related combinations
How Azelaic Acid and centella asiatica each mix with other common actives.
FAQ
Do I need sunscreen with azelaic acid and centella asiatica?
Yes. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is recommended with any active skincare routine.
Is this answer based on a study of azelaic acid and centella asiatica together?
Evidence strength: Limited. Based on ingredient-level evidence and a conservative general rule for this ingredient class. Direct research on this pair is limited.
Which goes on first, azelaic acid or centella asiatica?
Azelaic Acid first, then centella asiatica. In general, apply thinner, watery textures before thicker creams.
Sources
Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination. Numbers match the citation chips above.
- Sauer N, et al. The multiple uses of azelaic acid in dermatology: mechanism of action, preparations, and potential therapeutic applications. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2023;40(6):716-724.
- Liu H, et al. Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD011368.
- Park KS. Pharmacological effects of Centella asiatica on skin diseases: evidence and possible mechanisms. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2021;2021:5462633.
- Bylka W, et al. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2013;30(1):46-49.