# The INKEY List 10% Azelaic Acid Serum for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Spain.

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent for your combination skin and acne concerns, as azelaic acid effectively reduces inflammation and targets acne-causing bacteria while glycerin provides essential hydration.
- The inclusion of allantoin further soothes the skin, complementing the primary active ingredient's benefits for a balanced complexion.
- This serum is safe for your skin, with no reported risks of irritation and a formulation free from harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Azelaic Acid, Allantoin, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Niacinamide

## What the research says

- Azelaic acid nanocrystal hydrogel 10% achieved a higher success rate and greater lesion reduction than azelaic acid cream 20% in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/))
- Application of 15% azelaic acid gel significantly reduced post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation, decreased hemoglobin and melanin content, improved quality of life, and contributed to acne improvement in patients with mild to moderate acne compared to placebo. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- Topical treatment of nicotinamide, alone or in combination with other active ingredients, reduces the progression of skin aging and hyperpigmentation in clinical trials while being well tolerated. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/))
- Topical application of a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid reduced acne relapses and helped maintain remission compared to a light moisturizing cream in adult females in the acne maintenance phase over 16 weeks. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36729399/))
- Topical administration of 20% azelaic acid cream and 5% tranexamic acid solution comparably improved acne-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with acne vulgaris, while tranexamic acid demonstrated a significantly better safety profile at week 4. ([Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213446/))
- Azelaic acid 15% gel showed comparable efficacy to adapalene 0.1% gel in reducing lesions, severity, and Dermatology Life Quality Index in women with adult acne, with significantly lower dryness and scaling, and demonstrated superiority during maintenance compared to no further treatment. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25399481/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- Prophylactic application of a topical scar gel containing Allium cepae extract, allantoin, and heparin significantly improves patient-assessed scar color, stiffness, and irregularity compared to no treatment in women following a cesarean section. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24509969/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Gardenia jasminoides extract protected against blue light digital stress and premature aging with a decrease in wrinkle number by -21% compared to placebo. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36902379/))
- Crocin exhibits antioxidant potential, protects squalene against UVA-induced peroxidation, prevents inflammatory mediator release, and modulates NF-kB-related and glycosylation-related gene expression in normal human epidermal keratinocytes and human dermal fibroblasts in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29893408/))
- Gardenia jasminoides extract dose-dependently enhanced cell viability, attenuated UVB-induced mRNA expressions of IL-1β and TNF-α in HaCaT keratinocytes, and indirectly inhibited MMP-1 protein expression in human dermal fibroblasts compared to UVB exposure alone. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24711853/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))

## What reviewers say

It also often smooths skin texture and evens tone. Some users report it can be drying, necessitating immediate moisturizer application.

- Liked: Reduces redness (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable and effective (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and tight (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Itching and tingling (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Small packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture and pilling (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The INKEY List Azelaic Acid Serum one of the best fits for acne-prone skin?

This serum is one of the best fits for acne-prone skin because azelaic acid effectively calms inflammation and targets acne-causing bacteria while glycerin supplies essential hydration. Allantoin further soothes the skin to help create a balanced complexion, and the formula has a very safe profile with no reported risks of irritation.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Azelaic acid makes this serum a great fit because it targets acne-causing bacteria and calms inflammation, while glycerin provides essential hydration. Allantoin further soothes the skin to help keep your complexion balanced.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Azelaic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Azelaic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by fighting bacteria and calming redness, while also fading dark spots left behind by breakouts. It targets multiple causes of acne at once to keep your skin smooth and even-toned.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26355614/), [Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38282869/)

### What does Allantoin do for acne-prone skin?

Allantoin helps calm redness and supports the skin barrier, making it a soothing addition to routines for acne-prone skin. It is often paired with ingredients that clear pores and reduce oil to keep acne-prone skin balanced and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40177799/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine as a treatment step after cleansing and toning, and before your moisturizer. Using it at night keeps your routine simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol, applying this treatment first and following with your retinol product. Using a supportive routine helps calm the skin and keeps your complexion balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is used in your evening routine once a week to start. People who tolerate it well and see good results can carefully use it more often.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on acne-prone skin, as it contains azelaic acid to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation while glycerin provides lightweight hydration. It has a safe profile with no harsh ingredients, though some reviewers occasionally note a mild drying feeling.
Sources: [Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33923739/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.76 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €21.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €34.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €17.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €11.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0BW3SWJQK?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Azelaic Acid, Propanediol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Allantoin, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Polylysine
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/10-azelaic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
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