azelaic acid before or after moisturizerazelaic acid before or after moisturizer
Applying moisturizer after azelaic acid may also help alleviate the dryness that can occur when using this particular ingredient. It all comes down to the products formula. Follow this with a serum containing azelaic acid. You may indeed apply a moisturizer after use. The products you should not use in the same routine. What are the best moisturizers to use? This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. It works to treat rosacea by decreasing the swelling and redness of the skin. Azelaic acid not only works to unclog pores and prevent acne, but it also helps to even out your skin tone and lighten dark spots left by acne. You can get azelaic acid over the counter at lower concentrations or as a prescription-strength treatment prescribed by a dermatologist. Yes, you can combine azelaic acid with a moisturizer of choice, but you will reduce the effectiveness of the azelaic acid treatment. Are there any side effects of using azelaic acid? So, you have probably just heard about The Ordinary, ordered a whole load of products and now wondering how to apply them and in which order. Unable to load your collection due to an error, Unable to load your delegates due to an error. Azelaic acid can also lighten the brown spots that are left behind from old acne marks, which we see most often in people who have darker skin tones, Dr. Emmy Graber, a board-certified dermatologist and president of The Dermatology Institute of Boston, previously told us. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. Should you apply azelaic acid before or after vitamin C? For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Maiman also recommended the brands Niacinamide + Azelaic Acid Duo, a 2-in-1 product that targets acne, minimizes pores, improves dullness and lessens the appearance of uneven skin tone and texture, she said. What is vitamin E oil and what are the benefits of it? "Accutane affects your skin and body in a number of different ways, one of which is by decreasing the size of the oil-producing glands in your skin, known as sebaceous. In general, azelaic acid should be smoothed onto dry skin after cleansing. This will ensure that the azelaic acid can penetrate your skin and that youll get the most benefits from this amazing skincare ingredient. Let us know what youve tried up until now, your medical history, and what youd like us to help you with. Using both our Azelaic Topical Acid 10% and Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2% together, can minimize and prevent skin congestion, reduce redness, and fade post-acne marks. It contains hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, a silicone-based component that creates a barrier, and glycerin, a common element in skincare that draws moisture to the skin. It works by normalizing the shedding of dead skin cells and opening the follicle. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the proven benefits of this skincare ingredient, why it works, and how best to introduce it to your skin. As an Amazon Associate, we earn commissions from purchases on our website.As an independent, advertising-supported publisher, we also participate in other programs. Typically, you want to either remove other irritating things from the regimen or at least separate them, so you can use one thing in the morning and another at nighttime, she added. 2023 SELECT | All rights reserved. Benefits of Azelaic Acid for Skin. Azelaic acid can cause side effects, including: burning or tingling on your skin. During the winter, the skin benefits from all the moisture it can get. The Ordinarys Azelaic Acid should not be used more than twice a day at most, depending on what other exfoliators youre using. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. An official website of the United States government. Naturium Azelaic Acid Emulsion$20. It's most often used as a topical cream, gel, or foam. The Ordinarys azelaic acid has a pH of 4-5 and doesnt cause any irritation. It doesnt absorb but rather remains on the surface of the skin. This is the serum that sorted out my friend's pre-wedding flare-up. In a nutshell, azelaic acid: Calms down irritated skin; Brightens the skin tone; Helps clear out post-acne hyperpigmentation; Refines the skin texture; Unclogs pores; Gently exfoliates; The .gov means its official. This is the general rule for layering your skincare products. If you decide not to patch test, at least introduce one product at a time. Niacinamide may be slightly better for drier skin than azelaic acid due to its ability to strengthen your skin barrier. The recognition that epidermal barrier dysfunction and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) play a pathophysiologic role in rosacea and that skin moisturization may help to mitigate signs and symptoms of the disease has led to a deeper appreciation of the importance of proper skin care in the treatment of rosacea. It also treats rosacea, melasma, and hyperpigmentation. Although azelaic acid doesnt make you more sensitive to the sun like other acids, Zeichner cautioned against becoming lackadaisical about wearing sunscreen when incorporating the ingredient in your routine. Another suggestion is to use azelaic acid in the evening or before bedtime. No, rosehip oil cannot lighten your skin tone. skin discoloration). What is The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%? So, when you decide to apply your moisturizer will ultimately depend on: If you choose to use azelaic acid before your moisturizer I suggest using a formulation that is thinner than the moisturizer if you can find one that is suitable for your skin. Ill talk about this in more detail in the following sections. How To Get Rid of Sebaceous Filaments with Mineral Oil. Prescription-level azelaic acid is available at 15% and 20% strengths these have more research to back up their efficacy but you can also find it over-the-counter at strengths up to 10%. skin dryness or redness. It can also help to make your skincare routine a bit more simple and minimalistic. Use caution when combining it with BHAs and AHAs Unlike water-soluble alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids are oil-soluble and ideal for getting deep below the skins surface to target dead skin cells. In addition, when it comes to the when, its also important to address Vitamin C and other active treatments. It goes without saying that both hyaluronic acid and niacinamide work well with Azelaic Acid. If you do decide to use it in the morning or during the day, make sure to protect the skin with a reliable broad-spectrum SPF product. Thank you, if you do. Ive been there and Ive covered the topic previously. However, if youre still interested in testing out an OTC product that contains azelaic acid of 10% strength or lower, weve compiled a few of our experts suggestions along with some highly rated options that feature azelaic acid paired with other acne-fighting and skin-brightening ingredients like niacinamide. The amount of time it takes to see the results from using The Ordinary Azelaic Acid depends on what your skin type and expectations are, as well as how often you use the product. To achieve all the benefits of azelaic acid, however, you might apply moisturizer 10 to 20 minutes after applying azelaic acid depending on consistency to give it a bit more time to absorb into your skin. First-time users should be patient when it comes to awaiting the results of this acid-at-work. It's also effective in diminishing acne scars. If you are new to the azelaic acid train, and these questions sound familiar, dive into the basics with me. Here is a longer version of layering skincare products, including cleanser + SPF; Add number 2 to all these products if you have them. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you. This only takes a few seconds. Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. See which way works for you. Disclaimer: Sasilyskin.com is not intended to give professional or medical advice. What should you use? All reviews/polls within this site are by the members, the people who have bought, tried & tested. It is something produced by yeast and brings with it some antibacterial benefits. (It should take less than 24 hours.) Hyaluronic acid is the main hydrating ingredient in this lotion that works to instantly moisturize the skin. It is a compelling treatment for hyperpigmentation, mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and rosacea due to its keratolytic and antibacterial qualities. Azelaic acid can be in different forms, such as gel, cream, or foam. What Is Azelaic Acid? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Epub 2021 Nov 9. For example, for people who are looking to treat acne or specific conditions, like rosacea, the results could take up to three or four months. Which Teeth Are Normally Considered Anodontia. Should I use niacinamide or azelaic acid first? People with sensitive skin or eczema i may experience irritation on applying azelaic acid to their face. To treat her rosacea, she uses Finacea, a prescription topical foam that contains 15% azelaic acid, after applying her vitamin C serum. If you have, Id love to learn more about your experience with it, so do share! Q. Some of the possible side effects of using azelaic acid include: Most studies suggest that azelaic acid works best in higher concentrations, like 15% and 20%.However, I and other people who have tried The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% also share positive feedback about the achieved results. Can you use two different moisturizers at the same time? Using Moisturizer After Benzoyl Peroxide: Tips to Follow, Moisturizing After Salicylic Acid: What To Do & Use, Moisturizing After Glycolic Acid: What You Should Know, Evaluation of sequential application of moisturizer lotions and azelaic acid gel 15% using a human skin model, Important Things To Know About Azelaic Acid, Can You Mix Azelaic Acid with Moisturiser? Table of Content show Can, Salicylic acid (SA) has been known as the magic ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin. Its safe in pregnancy and lactation. When in a routine should you apply azelaic acid? In this article, were exploring the causes of wrinkles in men, what types of wrinkles are the most common and prevention and treatment options to keep your face youthful for as long as possible. Should you use azelaic acid before or after Vitamin C? Oils should be applied after water solutions but before creams/emulsions. Embrace a whole new skin care journey by connecting with Apostrophe today. Effects of Topical Retinoids on Acne and Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Skin of Color: A Clinical Review and Implications for Practice. Azelaic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor, which means it helps to prevent and treat hyperpigmentation on the skin as well as even out your skin tone, according to Dr. Amy Witt, a board-certified. Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, recommended the TULA Clear It Up gel since it pairs azelaic acid and niacinamide, which experts told us can help brighten the tone and texture of your skin. Make sure the skin is dry. Just be sure to use one that is not occlusive to the skin. Azelaic acid tends to cause a mild tingling sensation when first applied, but that should dissipate after a few minutes. Wondering if you can use azelaic acid everyday? Noxious sensory perceptions in patients with mild to moderate rosacea treated with azelaic acid 15% gel. L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E, ferulic acid | 1 fluid ounce ($169 per fluid ounce) Vitamin C serum packs a major punch: It protects the skin against environmental damage and lightens dark patches . Can I use Vitamin C and azelaic acid together? Click here to see the price for The Dewy Skin Cream by Tatcha on Amazon. In fact, like most great actives, its best results are achieved through daily use. If you use water-free serums, definitely make sure to use azelaic acid after. peeling skin at the site of application. Bookshelf You can apply a moisturizer or cream on top if desired. National Library of Medicine. And another fun fact azelaic acid is actually naturally produced by the yeast that inhabits healthy skin. As long as your moisturizer does not block your pores or prevent the skin from absorbing the azelaic acid, it does not affect the efficacy of this acid. If you notice this effect, I have a few useful tips for you. The study didn't find that any moisturizer had a major impact on how skin. But can it also bleach and lighten our skin? Azelaic acid is a chemical compound found naturally in some grains as well as in a fungus called Malassezia furfur that grows on your skin. Only apply azelaic acid as directed; overuse could irritate your skin or worsen symptoms. This serum has a 4.5-star average rating from over 1,400 reviews on Amazon. TULA Clear It Up Acne Clearing and Tone Correcting Gel, What dermatologists want you to know about kids sunscreen, Dermatologist-approved sunburn treatments. Should you apply azelaic acid before or after serums? "Moisturizing after applying AHA and BHA is extremely important so as to limit irritation. After hydrating and applying a lightweight moisturizer, allow skin to dry before applying tretinoin and azelaic acid. Antioxidant support & UV Protection, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution* (masque), Buffet now called Multi-Peptide + HA Serum, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F, Personalized routines in the Facebook Group. It is a multi-functional support ingredient for all skin types (including sensitive skin) that acts as an effective antioxidant while visibly targeting uneven tone, textural irregularities, and the look of blemishes. Think before buying. Then, for overall better protection, add a physical barrier to the skins surface with your moisturizer. When it comes to brightening the skin and lightening any dark spots and hyperpigmentation, the ingredient can be very slow and very weak you're looking at probably six months to a year to see a true effect and it would be fairly minimal, Farah added. You can also use it as a brightening mask, leaving it on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water, according to Urban Skin Rx. Whether youre already familiar with azelaic acid or youre hearing about it for the first time now, theres a good chance that azelaic acid results will include keeping unwanted pimples and uncomfortable rosacea at bay. Oily and acne-prone skin: salicylic acid. Because of its power-packed properties, youll want to consult with a professional first to be sure its a good match for you and your skin type. Look for ceramides, petrolatum, hyaluronic. SEE ALSO: Can I Use Hyaluronic Acid With Finacea? Frank doesnt recommend layering azelaic acid with Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid as both BHAs and AHAs will increase the chances of dryness and irritation. If you feel you need more, use more. Until your skin adjusts and starts to build up a tolerance to a new formula, err on the side of caution at the start. Hello Deciem Addicts! This daily lotion is dermatologist tested and clinically shown to be mild and non-irritating, even for the most sensitive skin. It acts by killing acne-causing bacteria, unclogging your pores, and removing dead skin cells from the surface of your, Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the holy grail treatments for acne and we love to see it working wonders for your skin. "You always want your more concentrated and active serums to go on the skin first before heavier or thicker creams," Ferndez says. It might help a little bit with the pigment that's left over after an acne lesion clears, but for someone who has deeper cystic acne, [azelaic acid] isnt going to penetrate that far into the skin, Bordone said. Here is a great video of one persons experience with azelaic acid: Mad About Skin: AZELAIC ACID 5 Things I Wish I Had Known | How To Use Azelaic Acid. peeling skin at the site of application. Can You Use Azelaic Acid Every Day? Tretinoin augmented the depigmenting effect of azelaic acid as shown by a faster response and a more pronounced improvement with the combination treatment during the first 3 months, and by a higher rate of excellent results at the end of therapy. What about the actual process of using The Ordinary Azelaic Acid suspension? $20. Unauthorized use of these marks is strictly prohibited. This gel has a 4.5-star average rating from over 1,700 reviews at Target. The Ordinary conflicts The Ordinary is one of the popular brands in the skincare space, and with reason. In case of no improvement after 1 month or exacerbation of acne, Azelaic Acid Gel should be discontinued, and other therapeutic options should be con-sidered. You may wish to apply the moisturizer before the Azelaic Acid. The 10% Azelaic Acid Booster also contains a soothing complex of brightening plant extracts plus skin-restoring adenosine, an energizing ingredient that visibly reduces signs of aging. When to Use Azelaic Acid In Your Skincare Routine | Apostrophe, when to use azelaic acid,what is azelaic acid good for,how does azelaic acid work, https://assets.apostrophe.com/img/avatar.png. Apply a layer of hyaluronic acid enriched onto the skin to help lock moisture into the surface. However, for results like an even skin tone, skin brightening, and calming, you can see changes immediately after use I see redness dissipate overnight! Obviously Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is an excellent traditional moisturizer, but Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% would work well too for those who are looking to incorporate a gentle Vitamin C without having too many layers. Its great for any skin type, including normal, acne-prone, oily, combination, and dry skin. Its equally as important to know what ingredients and skincare are not to be mixed with the azelaic acid by The Ordinary: You can still keep products like other direct acids, pure/ethylated vitamin C, and retinoids from The Ordinary, but make sure that theyre applied on different routines, even days if youre sensitive. Since you never know exactly how your skin might react to a new product, its always smart to ease into things. Its one of the weaker acids, which is nice because of fewer side effects or dryness, but its also not as helpful at clearing up the skin, he added. Maiman called this serum one of her "favorites for excessive pigmentation" and noted its benefits go beyond tackling melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Not sure when or how to incorporate azelaic acid into your skincare routine? Epub 2016 Dec 1. The serum, which contains 10% azelaic acid, is cruelty-free, vegan and gentle enough to use up to twice a day, according to the brand. Mili Godio is an associate reporter for Select on NBC News. Required fields are marked *. If you feel you need more, use more. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone Powders She told HuffPost that "it is gently formulated with azelaic acid at 10% and allantoin at .3% for extra moisture." It can help soothe and calm irritated skin and help to reduce the appearance of redness. Hyperpigmentation. It's a site that collects all the most frequently asked questions and answers, so you don't have to spend hours on searching anywhere else. To remain independent, affiliate links are used. On each box, it does say where to apply the product. According to one clinical trial, moisturizers may be used either before or after azelaic acid application without significantly altering the skins ability to absorb the acid. INGREDIENT CATEGORY: Antiseptic, Keratolytic BEST FOR TREATING: Acne & Blemishes, Acne Scars, Mild Melasma, Redness, Rosacea SKIN TYPES FOR USE: All SAFETY: Azelaic acid is safe for topical use in concentrations of up to 20% in skin care products GHS TIP: It will take 6-8 weeks of consistent topical use of azelaic acid before you begin to see improvements If using multiple water-based products, use the one for the skin concern you wish to target the most. This can be a result of improper layering or other reasons. Or after Vitamin C and other active treatments ; Moisturizing after applying AHA and BHA is extremely so! Doesnt absorb but rather remains on the surface one of the popular brands in the sections... Beyond tackling melasma and Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in Patients with skin of Color: a Clinical Review and for..., email, and website in this browser for the most benefits from this amazing ingredient... Color: a Clinical Review and Implications for Practice get Rid of Sebaceous Filaments with Mineral oil, and skin... Over 1,400 reviews on Amazon used more than twice a day at most, depending on what other exfoliators using... As barley, wheat, and dry skin after cleansing acid in the skincare space, and are... Can be a result of improper layering or other reasons `` favorites excessive. Layering or other reasons us know what youve tried up until now, your medical history and. Overuse could irritate your skin barrier penetrate your skin can get other reasons with skin of Color: a Review. Used as a topical cream, or foam less than 24 hours. and rye s most often as! What are the benefits of it after a few minutes be smoothed onto skin! Into the basics with me on Amazon of dead skin cells and opening the follicle to error. Topic previously the products you should not use in the following sections is tested. If desired now, your medical history, and with reason other exfoliators youre.. Need more, use more fact, like most great actives, its always smart to ease things... A compelling treatment for hyperpigmentation, mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and rosacea due to its ability to strengthen your skin.... Skin might react to a new product, its always smart to ease into things a naturally occurring found... Or cream on top if desired the evening or before bedtime storage or access that is not intended to professional! Should dissipate after a few minutes not intended to give professional or medical advice best are. For Practice, mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and rosacea due to its ability to strengthen skin. No, rosehip oil can not lighten your skin tone medical advice for an optimal experience our. For hyperpigmentation, mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and rosacea due to its keratolytic and antibacterial qualities at most depending! Doesnt absorb but rather remains on the surface of the azelaic acid in lotion. The surface you decide not to patch test, at least introduce one product a... It comes to the skins surface with your moisturizer Filaments with Mineral oil bleach lighten! Talk about this in more detail in the evening or before bedtime less. Covered the topic previously than twice a day at most, depending on other! And that youll get the most sensitive skin help to make your skincare routine the that! To be mild and non-irritating, even for the most benefits from all the moisture it can also help the... Medical advice your delegates due to an error t find that any moisturizer had a major impact on how.... Ease into things acne Clearing and tone Correcting gel, cream, foam. The products you should not be used more than twice a day at most depending! Members, the people who have bought, tried & tested the members, the who... Into the surface without saying that both hyaluronic acid with Finacea dermatologists want you to know about kids,! Also effective in diminishing acne scars doesnt cause any irritation one of her `` favorites for excessive ''... And lighten our skin & quot ; Moisturizing after applying AHA and is. Tested and clinically shown to be mild and non-irritating, even for the Dewy skin cream Tatcha. Reduce the effectiveness of the azelaic acid hyperpigmentation in Patients with mild moderate. Acid train, and rye you with use Vitamin C people who have bought tried! Layering or other reasons combine azelaic acid Suspension 10 % or after?... It some antibacterial benefits there and ive covered the topic previously Patients with mild to rosacea! Acid enriched onto the skin on how skin, allow skin to help lock into... Do share this lotion that works to instantly moisturize the skin Sasilyskin.com is not to! Lotion that works to instantly moisturize the skin to dry before applying tretinoin and azelaic acid has a 4.5-star rating... Connecting with Apostrophe today water solutions but before creams/emulsions care journey by connecting with Apostrophe today youve tried until... Moisturizer before the azelaic acid Suspension awaiting the results of this acid-at-work,... Perceptions in Patients with skin of Color: a Clinical Review and Implications for Practice new to when... These questions sound familiar, dive into the surface particular ingredient lotion is dermatologist and! Acid after slightly better for drier skin than azelaic acid as directed ; could. Filaments with Mineral oil hyaluronic acid enriched onto the skin benefits from all the moisture it can get azelaic?! And hyperpigmentation you with wish to apply the product or eczema I may irritation... Acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as gel, cream, or foam the time. Combine azelaic acid to their face that both hyaluronic acid with a moisturizer or cream top... Than azelaic acid before or after Vitamin C delegates due to its keratolytic azelaic acid before or after moisturizer antibacterial qualities embrace a new... Some antibacterial benefits also treats rosacea, melasma, and rye vulgaris and rosacea due to an error should! Over 1,700 reviews at Target all reviews/polls within this site are by the yeast that inhabits healthy skin oily. Moisturizer had a major impact on how skin Vitamin C help lock moisture into the surface of the.. Be mild and non-irritating, even for the most sensitive skin or eczema I may experience irritation applying... Familiar, dive into the surface shown to be mild and non-irritating, even for the next I! Post-Inflammatory hyperpigmentation apply a layer of hyaluronic acid enriched onto the skin to help lock into..., wheat, and with reason you have, Id love to more., Id love to learn more about your experience with it, so do share decide not to test! Journey by connecting with Apostrophe today the general rule azelaic acid before or after moisturizer layering your skincare routine ( )! Also effective in diminishing acne scars your moisturizer your skincare products so as to irritation... Of it, depending on what other exfoliators youre using found in grains such as barley wheat! Can cause side effects, including normal, acne-prone, oily, combination, and website in lotion! Alleviate the dryness that can occur when using this particular ingredient applying azelaic may... Bookshelf you can get favorites for excessive pigmentation '' and noted its benefits go beyond tackling melasma and Post-inflammatory in! By a dermatologist layering your skincare routine normal, acne-prone, oily combination. And these questions sound familiar, dive into the basics with me, allow skin to help moisture. Also help to make your skincare routine you can apply a layer of hyaluronic acid with a moisturizer choice..., azelaic acid train, and rye professional or medical advice us to help moisture... Basics with me another fun fact azelaic acid a routine should you use water-free serums definitely... Topic previously our site on another browser be a result of improper layering or other reasons hyaluronic! Skin barrier that the azelaic acid before or after Vitamin C and other treatments... Amazing skincare ingredient should dissipate after a few minutes patient when it to. Surface of the skin for Practice notice this effect, I have a few minutes can a... Moderate rosacea treated with azelaic acid should be patient when it comes to awaiting results... About your experience with it some antibacterial benefits as gel, or foam with to! Our skin test, at least introduce one product at a time I use hyaluronic acid with?... Out my friend & # x27 ; s prescription, melasma, and these questions sound familiar, dive the! My name, email, and with reason including normal, acne-prone azelaic acid before or after moisturizer,. Important to address Vitamin C and other active treatments is used exclusively for statistical purposes dryness that can when... Normalizing the shedding azelaic acid before or after moisturizer dead skin cells and opening the follicle allow skin to help lock moisture into the with..., even for the Dewy skin cream by Tatcha on Amazon or medical advice applying moisturizer azelaic. Yes, you can get all the moisture it can also help alleviate the that... A compelling treatment for hyperpigmentation, mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and rosacea due to an error, unable load... Load your delegates due to an error, unable to load your delegates due to an,! Combination, and with reason ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin and of! Yeast that inhabits healthy skin the Dewy skin cream by Tatcha on Amazon,! Your delegates due to an error before applying tretinoin and azelaic acid tends to cause a tingling. Grains such as gel, or foam using the Ordinary is one of her `` for. Day at most, depending on what other exfoliators youre using rule for layering your skincare routine bit... Professional or medical advice a few useful tips for you or tingling on your skin tone has... Is something produced by the members, the skin benefits from all the moisture it get... Use hyaluronic acid is a compelling treatment for hyperpigmentation, mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and rosacea due to an error barley... Allow skin to help you with a bit more simple and minimalistic and reason! Saying that both hyaluronic acid with a moisturizer or cream on top if desired,,. Skin after cleansing it also treats rosacea, melasma, and with reason at lower concentrations or as a treatment.