[Product Question] Azelaic Acid Gel 15% (Rx) How to Use?

Hi everyone!

Some of you might remember me from the post where I shared a photo that ended up getting taken down... I’ve since been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis and wanted to come back with a question about a new prescription I was given (the derm went away btw).

My doctor prescribed 15% azelaic acid, and after looking into it a bit online it seems like a bit of a “miracle” product for a lot of people, not only for fungal acne but also for general skin issues like redness, and breakouts. Since I already tend to fall into the “sensitive / reactive skin” category, I’m really curious how others properly incorporate it into their routines.

Right now I’m using the azelaic acid about 2–3 times per week, and my current routine looks like this:

1. Vivier Refreshing Toner
2. SkinCeuticals Acne + Blemish treatment
3. SkinCeuticals B5 Hydrating Serum
4. iS Clinical Shield Balm
5. Azelaic Acid 15%

I basically apply it and let it sit on my skin overnight.

So far my skin has been responding pretty well, but I’m not totally sure if I’m using it in the most effective way or if the order of products makes sense.

One thing I’ve noticed is that my office environment seems to trigger red bumps on my face. They usually start as small red inflamed spots that take a while to form a whitehead. When I use the azelaic acid, the redness is usually gone by the next day, but then the cycle kind of repeats itself.

A few questions I’d love input on:

• Am I layering this correctly in my routine?
• Should azelaic acid be used more frequently than 2–3 times a week?
• Has anyone had success using 15% azelaic acid long-term for redness, fungal acne, or seb derm?
• Any tips for getting the most out of it if you’re not ready to jump into tretinoin or retinoids yet?

I’ve been curious about retinols and tretinoin for a while but I’m not quite ready to commit yet, so I’m hoping azelaic acid can be a good step in my skin journey.

Would love to hear any tips, routines, or success stories from people who have used it!

Thanks in advance :)