The problem of acne is familiar to many people: they can cause significant psychological discomfort, and in some cases, acute inflammation causes physical pain.
The occurrence of skin rashes can be caused by serious diseases and getting rid of them is not so easy, so you need to consult a dermatologist, carry out diagnostic tests and prescribe special medications, most often for topical use.
One of the pharmacological agents used to treat acne is Azelic. The main features of this drug and its use are discussed in detail in this article.
Composition and release form
The drug Azelik is available only in the form of a gel for external use ; pharmacies offer options in volumes from 5 to 30 grams. The main active substance that provides the therapeutic effect is azelaic acid.
The composition also contains auxiliary components, including:
- Macrogol;
- Carbomers;
- Squalane;
- Purified water;
- Bezoic acid;
- Propylene glycol;
- Methylpyrrolidone;
- Sodium in the form of hydroxide.
Azelaic acid is quickly absorbed and penetrates into the deep layers of the epidermis. No more than 3.6% of the used dose of the drug penetrates into the systemic circulation.
Excretion is carried out by the kidneys - partly in unchanged form, partly in the form of oxidized metabolites, which are dicarboxylic acids.
Azelik's action
Thanks to its texture, the drug is easily applied to the skin, quickly absorbed without clogging the pores. Penetrating deep into the epidermis, the gel begins its therapeutic effect. Azelik has a broad effect:
- eliminates harmful bacteria in the layers of the epidermis;
- normalizes the process of exfoliation and keratinization of the skin;
- has an antioxidant effect;
- reduces the inflammatory process of the skin;
- eliminates redness from rosacea;
- has a depigmenting, anti-acne effect;
- reduces the amount of sebum;
- cleanses pores.
Azelik has a bactericidal effect, which prevents the formation of acne vulgaris and is an excellent product for caring for problem skin. This gel is not addictive and does not affect the functioning of the liver or kidneys.
Read more Salicylic-zinc paste or Lassara paste - instructions for use
Indications for use
The main indications for the use of Azelik are the following diseases:
- Rosacea is a chronic disease, the drug is used to suppress the main symptoms and minimize the risk of relapses and exacerbations;
- The appearance of a large number of pimples on the face and other parts of the body;
- Excessive activity of the sebaceous glands , leading to clogged pores and skin irritations.
Azelik cream – contraindications
The main contraindication to the use of the drug is intolerance to its components. If your face turns red from Azelik, minor rashes, itching or burning appear, you must immediately stop using the drug and consult a doctor for advice. In this case, the specialist will select a medicine with a similar effect, but with a different composition. In addition to intolerance, the cream should not be used:
- children under 12 years of age for the treatment of acne;
- adolescents under 18 years of age for the treatment of rosacea;
- pregnant and lactating women. In exceptional cases, Azelik during pregnancy is allowed as prescribed by a doctor.
Beneficial features
The main positive effect of using Azelik gel is the elimination of signs of acne and excessive pigmentation.
The drug also has a number of other useful properties, thanks to which similar results are possible:
- Detrimental effect on bacterial microflora , causing skin irritations;
- Normalizing the functioning of the sebaceous glands and reducing the volume of fatty acids produced;
- Prevention of blockage of hair follicles and subsequent development of inflammatory processes;
- Suppression of the activity of pigment cells with abnormal development;
- Impact and normalization of the processes of keratinization of the epidermis at the cellular level;
- Prevention of benign types of skin pigmentation, which belong to the group of aesthetic defects.
It is worth noting that Azelik affects inflammatory processes precisely in the final stages, when free fluid accumulates in their foci.
This helps prevent the appearance of purulent lesions in their place, which are often accompanied by a secondary infection.
Azelik cream - composition
The product has a uniform consistency, white color, almost transparent. There may be a slight specific odor. The active ingredient is azelaic acid. The component is known for its antimicrobial activity, in addition, for its ability to normalize keratinization processes. To manufacture the drug, additional components are required that enhance its therapeutic effect.
If you refer to the instructions that accompany the cream with azelaic acid Azelik, in the “Composition” section you can find the following excipients:
- benzoic acid;
- methylpyrrolidone;
- propylene glycol;
- squalane;
- disodium edetate;
- carbomer interpolymer;
- purified water.
How to use it correctly?
External use of Azelik is the only acceptable way to use the gel; application is carried out on the affected skin in the absence of contraindications.
Avoid getting any amount into the digestive system and mucous membranes, as this will provoke unwanted reactions from the body.
The use of Aezlik gel is carried out in accordance with the instructions given below:
- Application should only be carried out on clean skin , so you should wash your face first; you can use light cosmetics with a cleansing effect;
- After hygiene procedures, the face must be thoroughly wiped with a towel , since application of the drug is allowed only on dry skin;
- Application is carried out locally on the affected areas of the skin , the amount of gel depends on the area of the lesions: the drug should be applied in uniform thin layers;
- Azelik is applied 2 times a day in the morning and evening;
- When applying the gel, it must be rubbed into the skin with light massaging movements of the fingers, this will improve its absorption and penetration of the active substance deep into the tissues;
- To treat the entire surface of the face, it is enough to squeeze out a strip of gel about 2.5 cm long;
- The positive effect becomes noticeable a month after the start of treatment, but to consolidate the achieved result, the duration of the course should be at least 2-3 months;
- If there is no positive result within a month or the need to take a longer course, you must consult with the doctor who prescribed the use of Azelik gel;
- If side effects occur in the form of increased local irritation, the frequency of use is reduced to 1 time per day. After the body adapts and the unwanted reactions disappear, you should return to the standard treatment regimen using the drug in the morning and evening hours.
Throughout the entire course of treatment using Azelik gel, you should minimize the time spent in direct sunlight.
Use during pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy is not a direct contraindication for the use of Azelik gel, but this product must be used with extreme caution.
You should first consult with a specialist and obtain appropriate permission from him.
The drug is prescribed only in case of urgent need. The same precautions should be taken during breastfeeding.
Application of Azelik cream
The product is intended for external use. Thanks to its unique composition, Azelik demonstrates bacteriostatic activity - it stops the growth and development of a number of pathogenic microbes. The drug exhibits high activity against Propionibacterium acne and Staphylococcus epidermidis - the most common bacteria that affect the skin. In addition to antimicrobial activity, the drug Azelik:
- reduces the synthesis of fatty acids;
- suppresses the process of comedones formation;
- slows down the process of keratinization of the upper layers of the skin, giving it softness.
In addition, the process of growth and activity of abnormal melanocytes, which provoke increased pigmentation of melasma, is suppressed. Due to this, an anti-acne, depigmenting (lightens the skin) effect occurs. Thanks to this action, Azelik can be used against demodicosis. If you refer to the instructions accompanying Azelik cream, the indications for use of the medicine are as follows:
- acne;
- rosacea;
- pimples, boils.
Acne cream Azelik
Due to the presence of an antibacterial component, which forms the basis of the drug, it is often used to treat acne. It is known that this type of pathology is accompanied by a pronounced inflammatory process, which causes redness, swelling, and suppuration. To cope with all these symptoms, doctors recommend using the acne remedy Azelik.
Pre-damaged areas of the skin on which the gel is planned to be applied must be thoroughly washed and dried. A small amount of product in the form of a strip 2.5 cm long is enough to treat, for example, the entire surface of the face. The procedure is carried out twice a day - in the morning and in the evening before bedtime. After application to the skin, the gel is lightly rubbed into the skin to speed up the process of penetration of the medicinal components of the product into the deeper layers of the skin.
Azelik for dermatitis
The inflammatory process of the skin can be quickly eliminated with the help of Azelik. The anti-inflammatory effect of the drug, according to dermatologists, is due to a decrease in neutrophil metabolism. As a result, it is possible to reduce the production of free radical oxygen species. The severity of the effect is determined by the dose and time of application of Azelik cream (cream and Azelik).
Thus, Azelik for perioral dermatitis helps to get rid of the main symptoms of the disorder (redness, small rashes around the mouth) after 2-3 days of use. A small strip of Azelik cream – 1–1.5 cm – is spread in a thin layer on the affected, previously washed and dried skin (cream and Azelik). Treatment is carried out 2 times a day. The duration of treatment is determined individually.
Azelik for closed comedones
Dermatologists call comedones the well-known acne. However, closed comedones are different in that they do not have pores and do not communicate with the external environment. Externally, they look like papules, peas on the surface of the skin with white edges. Their size may vary. When placed close together, the elements significantly change a person’s appearance, especially if located on the face, giving the skin a lumpy appearance. Most often localized on the forehead and chin.
In order to eliminate excess sebum and dead cells that block the sebaceous glands, doctors recommend using Azelik cream for comedones. A small amount is applied directly to the affected areas and distributed evenly over the skin. The procedure is carried out at least 2 times daily. The duration of treatment is determined by the severity of symptoms and the extent of skin lesions.
Azelik for post-acne
When the skin is damaged, which occurs after injury or squeezing out pimples, scarring and pigmentary changes occur. They are called post-acne. Their main symptom is old scar changes, scars after healed purulent acne. In such cases, Azelik anti-acne gel is recommended. There are 3 main forms of post-acne:
- dimples, depressions in the skin - atrophic scars;
- lumpy, convex areas are hypertrophic;
- dyschromia - a spotted skin surface with areas of increased pigmentation.
Using Azelik for acne spots, it is possible to get rid of unpleasant skin changes in just 1-2 months. The product is carefully distributed in a thin layer over the altered skin surface. The procedure is carried out 2-3 times a day after washing and drying the skin. The duration of treatment is determined by the dermatologist individually.
Azelik for blackheads
With proper, systematic use, Azelik will help with blackheads in a few weeks. However, the first changes are noticeable after 5–7 days. A pronounced improvement occurs after 3-4 weeks of treatment. The skin is difficult to cleanse, and blackheads are localized directly there. Their localization is different, favorite areas:
- face;
- neck;
- back.
Directly in these areas there is a high concentration of subcutaneous fat, which lies close to the surface layers of the skin. Azelik is applied in small quantities to damaged areas of the skin and distributed evenly. In most cases, it is necessary to carry out the procedure at least 2 times a day.
Azelik for herpes
Herpes is a viral disease. Azelik does not contain antiviral components, so the drug is unable to act directly on the cause. However, treating the elements of the rash that occur with herpes directly helps to normalize the skin and prevent infection. Azelik for herpes is applied pointwise, directly to the affected areas of the skin. The dermatologist determines the duration of treatment individually.
Azelik cream for rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease, which is accompanied by damage to the facial skin, the appearance of erythema, papules, and pustules. The disease is more common among patients aged 30–50 years with fair skin. Possible causes of the disease include:
- disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
- diseases of the endocrine and nervous systems;
- change in immune status.
Azelik for rosacea is used directly to treat skin changes. The gel is applied in a thin layer to the damaged surface and lightly rubbed into the skin. The procedure is carried out twice a day. The duration of treatment is determined by the severity of the pathology and the volume of skin lesions. The product cannot be used on its own.
Azelik for boils
As a result of acute purulent-necrotic inflammation of the hair follicle, pimples appear on the surface of the skin. They are painful to the touch and cause severe discomfort to patients. In most cases, the cause of their appearance is Staphylococcus aureus, pyogenic bacteria. Skin contamination also contributes to the appearance of this type of rash - increased sweating and shaving can act as factors provoking the development of pathology.
To combat skin manifestations, dermatologists recommend using Azelik cream. It contains antimicrobial components that can destroy the pathogen, reduce inflammation and improve the condition of the skin. The duration of use is determined individually, so before using Azelik cream, you should consult a doctor. In severe cases, when large areas of skin are affected, the product is used for at least 1 month.
Side effects
Undesirable and side effects in response to the use of Azelik occur only in rare cases; they are associated with a reaction from the subcutaneous fatty tissue and epidermis.
Possible manifestations include:
- Peeling , dryness and feeling of tightness of the skin;
- Local redness as a result of a rush of blood to the vessels and an increase in the temperature of the epidermis;
- Physical discomfort due to itching and burning at the site of application of the gel;
- Skin allergic reactions.
Such side effects in mild form are considered a normal reaction and do not require discontinuation of the drug. They go away on their own during treatment.
Azelik cream – hormonal or not?
Being wary of side effects and negative effects on the body, patients try to find out in advance whether Azelik is hormonal or not, and whether similar components are present in it. Having carefully studied the instructions, the composition of which is indicated above, you can make sure that there is no hormonal component in the composition of the drug.
This means that Azelik is not a hormonal drug, so negative effects associated with the influence on human hormonal levels are excluded. However, this does not mean that the product can be used independently, without a medical examination. In such cases, there is a risk of side effects.
Price
Azelik is freely available and can be purchased without presenting a prescription written by your doctor. The cost of the drug depends on the volume of the tube.
Approximate current prices are given below:
- A tube containing 5 grams of Azelik gel costs 300 rubles ;
- A tube containing 15 grams gel costs 450 rubles ;
- A tube containing 30 grams of Azelik gel costs 660 rubles .
Azelik cream or gel – which is better?
In fact, this question is inappropriate - the only form of release of Azelik is gel. There is no such form as cream, however, due to its similarity in consistency and color, patients themselves call it cream. Given this information, the question of whether Azelik cream or gel is better is illiterate. If you address it to a dermatologist, the doctor may be perplexed, since no one knows about this type of medicine like “Azelik cream”. However, in this article we refer to the product as a cream - just like many patients who use it.
Possible analogues
The drug Azelik has analogues, the use of which can provide the same therapeutic effect and result.
Some options for products with similar effects are discussed below:
- Azix-Derm is an Indian-made cream; it is the main analogue of Azelik gel, since it also contains azelaic acid. The indications and features of use are the same; the cost of a 30 gram tube is about 650 rubles ;
- Skinoclear is another product for topical use, available in the form of a 15% gel or 20% cream. The main active substance is also azelaic acid, the drug is produced in the Russian Federation. The cost of a tube containing 30 grams of product ranges from 500 rubles ;
- Skinoren is an Italian analogue based on azelaic acid, available in pharmacies as a 15% gel or 20% cream. Depending on the volume of packaging, the cost can vary from 750 to 1700 rubles ;
- Metrogyl - produced in the form of a gel, has antibacterial activity and affects anaerobic microorganisms; when applied topically, it can reduce the number of acne and reduce inflammation. The composition contains metronidazole, its concentration in the drug does not exceed 10 mg. The product can be purchased at a price of 200 rubles ;
- Roaccutane is not available in the form of topical preparations; the only form of release is capsules for oral administration containing isotretinoin. The use of Roaccutane is possible only upon receipt of a prescription from the attending physician. The cost of a package containing 30 capsules is 3,000 rubles ;
- Zinerit - available in the form of an anti-acne lotion for external use, it contains zinc acetate and erythromycin. The drug has a complex effect, eliminating pathogenic bacterial microflora, normalizing the functioning of the sebaceous glands and reducing inflammation. To completely get rid of skin rashes, you need to complete a course lasting 2-2.5 months. You can purchase a bottle containing 30 ml of the drug for a price of 500 rubles .
Azelik's analogs
There are a significant number of analogues of Azelik gel that have the same therapeutic properties and are similar in their mechanism. These include:
- Skinclear.
- Doxycycline.
- Skinoren.
- Baziron AS.
- Metrogyl - gel.
- Ugrin.
- Isotrekin.
- Azix - Derm.
- Differin cream.
In some cases, when side symptoms appear, the doctor selects a replacement for this drug, which is similar in its composition and similar in its effect.
Read more Instructions for using Dermovate ointment
What to choose?
These drugs have one goal: eliminating pimples and acne . Both are available in gel form. However, the distinctive feature is the composition of the drugs - it is completely different. They should not be used in the presence of allergic reactions. Baziron mentions the fact that the drug is prohibited for children under 12 years of age.
Despite the fact that the drugs are quite harmless, they have a number of side effects. Both medications are characterized by:
- Skin irritation.
- Allergy.
- Dry skin.
- Burning.
- Itching.
- Redness.
- Peeling.
After using Baziron, people's feedback is mostly positive. The opinion of doctors also indicates that the drug is one of the effective means for eliminating this disease.
The gel can eliminate the appearance of pimples and acne in a short time. The anti-inflammatory effect allows not only to eliminate inflammation, but also to have a drying effect. The product also eliminates spots that form after acne. Normalizing sebum production helps prevent the development of new acne.
Among the disadvantages, one can highlight the frequent development of side effects - the appearance of irritation and peeling of the skin. To avoid this, you need to moisturize your facial skin more often.
When using Azelik, patients note an improvement in their skin condition after 3 weeks . This time is enough for the symptoms to significantly decrease.
First, you should conduct a test to determine the body’s compatibility with this medication. Doctors say this can be checked within a week. To begin with, it is enough to purchase a 5 g tube, and then, if the product is suitable, then buy a larger volume. The gel allows you to eliminate not only acne, but also various irritations.
It is recommended to use the medication in autumn or winter . With strong exposure to ultraviolet radiation, spots may appear on the skin. Along with using Azelik, you should use sunscreen.
Patients note that in some cases side effects develop. Also, some people do not like the consistency and duration of the treatment.
Baziron is produced by a French company. Azelik is produced in Russia. Their cost is almost the same and is about 800 rubles.
