I picked up the Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10% Serum during a Space NK sale, largely on the strength of how much I have enjoyed other products in the Naturium range, and I was on the look out for a new Azelaic Acid Serum to try.
What is it?
A nourishing hair balm designed to defrizz, defluff, seal split ends and define without weighing hair down.
What Do I Think?
I’ve been having a passtionate love affair with azelaic acid over the past year or so. It is one of those ingredients that quietly does an enormous amount. It’s antibacterial, which makes it useful for stopping breakouts before they establish themselves. It addresses the pigmentation that breakouts leave behind. And it is particularly good at reducing redness, which is something I have been contending with more as I get older. For the price of one ingredient, it covers a lot of ground.
The formula combines 10% azelaic acid with niacinamide, coffee seed extract and vitamin C. Together they exfoliate gently, regulate oil, target dark spots and work towards a more even, luminous complexion. It is suitable for sensitive, acne-prone and ageing skin, which makes it one of the more versatile serums in this category.
The texture is genuinely lovely. Some azelaic acid serums have a chalky, slightly unpleasant quality that makes them tedious to apply. This one does not. It’s watery and goes on smoothly and feels pleasant on the skin. The results, when I was able to use it consistently, were exactly what the formula promised.
Now for the problem, and it is a significant one.
The smell is extraordinary, and not in any good sense. A faint vinegary note is not unusual in unfragranced actives, and I have made peace with that across a number of products. This is different. The smell from this serum does not fade. It lingers on the skin all day. If it transfers to clothing or a pillowcase, it stays there until washed. It is persistent enough to be genuinely distracting and eventually stopped me using the product altogether, which is a shame because the serum itself is excellent.
Would I recommend?
Interestingly, relatively few reviews mention the bad smell, so it is possible I had a bad batch or that my nose is simply less tolerant than most. I would suggest trying it in store before buying, if that is possible, just to establish whether the smell is something you can live with. If it is, you will have a very good serum on your hands.
Brands Product Description
Our azelaic acid serum contains a high concentration of a glycinated azelaic acid complex, along with niacinamide, vitamin C and coffee seed extract to help improve the appearance of skin tone, for brighter-looking skin. Formulated with an azelaic acid derivative, this helps to balance excess oil, leaving skin feeling comfortable and hydrated.
Our Azelaic Topical Acid 10% is clinically proven to exfoliate, reduce redness and improve skin tone and texture in just 8 weeks.
Key Ingredients
- Azelaic Acid – reduces inflammation and redness, kills acne-causing bacteria, and fades dark spots.
- Vitamin C – brightens skin tone, fades dark spots, and protects against environmental damage.
- Niacinamide – strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil production, and calms inflammation.
- Coffee Seed Extract – protects the skin from environmental damage, fights premature aging, and supports hydration.
How I Use It
I used this in my morning routine after cleansing, and before moisturiser and SPF.
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
No. The smell is too bad for my liking.
How Much?
£22.00 for 30ml
