Skinoren® Cream 20% (Azelaic Acid) 30g

What is Skinoren Cream used for​​​?

Skinoren is a topical cream containing 20% Azelaic Acid, which we use to treat both acne vulgaris & rosacea. It's a prescription medication and can be used on your face, back and chest.

Azelaic Acid possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and keratin-reducing properties, azelaic acid has the following key benefits:

• It can treat acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and other skin conditions.
• It can clear away dead skin cells, leaving skin smoother.
• It can reduce the visibility of acne scars and other blemishes.

Azelaic acid works by reducing the growth of pore-blocking keratin cells (keratin-reducing), and by killing the bacteria associated with acne (antibacterial). A common skin bacteria called propionibacterium feeds on the sebum produced by the skin, creating waste products and fatty acids that worsen acne symptoms and inflame the skin. By unblocking pores and glands and killing propionibacterium, Azelaic acid reduces acne and allows your skin to heal naturally. Its anti-inflammatory effect allows it to reduce redness and swelling as well.

Dosage and How to Use​

Skinoren Cream (Azelaic Acid 20%) should always be used as instructed by your doctor. Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The manufacturer’s leaflet will give you more information about how to use the medicine correctly. Generally, the steps are as follows:

• First, thoroughly wash with plain water the whole area to be treated. If the skin is greasy, use a mild skin cleanser. Dry the skin thoroughly before applying Skinoren.
• Unless the doctor or pharmacist has told otherwise, start treatment with Skinoren twice a day.
• If the skin is very sensitive, use Skinoren once a day in the evening during the first week of treatment. Then, change to twice a day.
• The amount of Skinoren to be used will depend on the size of the area to be treated: As a guide, if the whole of the face is affected, use 2.5 cm (approx. 0.5 g) of cream each time Skinoren is applied. If there is acne on the chest and back, as well as the face, adjust the amount of cream accordingly.
• Use the cream regularly. Rub it in gently.
• Wash hands thoroughly after using Skinoren.
• How long Skinoren has to be used varies from person to person. It depends upon how bad the acne is when treatment is started. A distinct improvement should be seen after about 4 weeks.
• To get the best effect, Skinoren should be used regularly for several months. However, Skinoren should not be used for more than 12 months at any time.

What are the possible side effects of Skinoren Cream?​

Initially, you may experience skin irritation such as redness, itching and even a mild stinging sensation. Apply it less frequently at first to allow your skin to get used to the medication. If you suffer from any persistent, painful or more serious side effects (skin discolouration, hypersensitivity, worsening of asthma), then stop treatment immediately and contact your doctor for advice.

What precautions should I take?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You have ever had an allergic reaction to a cream or gel.
• You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding. Using azelaic acid while pregnant or trying to become pregnant is generally recognised as safe. Absorption of azelaic acid into the body from topical application is less than 4% and there is currently no evidence that azelaic acid can cause harm to an unborn baby. If you decide that you would like to use an azelaic acid product to treat any skin conditions during pregnancy or lactation (breastfeeding), it is best to seek advice from your doctor on how to proceed.

Handling and storage

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

The above information answers some common questions about this medicine. It does not contain all the available information. It also does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

References

https://www.mims.com/singapore/drug/info/azelaic%20acid