Azelaic Acid: A Promising Agent for Dermatological Applications

Azelaic Acid (AA) is a naturally occurring 9-carbon straight-chain saturated dicarboxylic acid widely found in wheat, rye, and barley. It has been shown to possess numerous biochemical activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, anticomedolytic and anticancer. This therapeutic agent has been approved by US food Drug Administration for the treatment of mild to moderate acne and rosacea. Further, azelaic acid has been reported for the management of skin hyperpigmentation, melasma and alopecia. In this review article, several studies on azelaic acid that pointed out its bioactivities and pharmacology along with its drug delivery systems are reviewed. Additionally, an outlook on its mechanism of action is also given. Azelaic acid is an important moiety for the management of acne owing to its benefits in addressing follicular excess sebum, inflammatory action, hyperproliferation and activity against Propionibacterium acne. The commercially available topical formulations normally contain 15 to 20% AA. In the future, a broadspectrum antibacterial agent, azelaic acid can act as a pillar in acne therapy minimizing the potential risk of emergence of resistance. This review will definitely provide a new perspective for research involving this bioactive molecule.