# The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: High fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for skin with dark spots; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your normal skin as azelaic acid offers anti-inflammatory and melanogenesis regulation benefits, alongside tocopherol providing antioxidant activity.
- Offers moderate exfoliation and brightens skin tone due to the presence of azelaic acid in a concentration that targets hyperpigmentation and evens skin tone.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your normal skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Azelaic Acid, Dimethicone, Tocopherol, Chlorphenesin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer

## What the research says

- 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 topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## What reviewers say

While many users report clearer and brighter skin within weeks, a significant portion of reviewers struggle with the formula's tendency to pill under makeup or other skincare layers. This summary is based on a very large amount of data and should be definitely taken into account.

- Liked: Reduces redness (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Pills under makeup (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Matte finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes stinging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Thick texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum as part of your PM routine starting 3x/week and build up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute for it to absorb.
- Apply the serum on dry skin to help fade pigmentation effectively.
- Avoid the eye area and always use SPF 30+ during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension a great fit for skin with dark spots?

This treatment is a great fit because azelaic acid brightens skin tone and targets dark spots, while tocopherol provides antioxidant activity. It offers moderate exfoliation to even out your skin, and has a very safe profile with no harsh ingredients that might cause irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Azelaic acid makes this a great fit because it brightens skin tone, targets dark spots, and evens out skin color. Tocopherol also helps by providing antioxidant activity to protect the skin.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

### What does Azelaic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Azelaic acid helps fade dark spots and uneven skin tone by slowing down the overactive pigment production in your skin cells. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may gradually clear up stubborn marks left behind by breakouts or sun exposure.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 1990](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2114832/)

### What does Dimethicone do for skin with dark spots?

Dimethicone does not directly fade dark spots, but it helps protect the skin and keeps it smooth while you use targeted treatments. To properly address dark spots, this skin type needs brightening ingredients like vitamin C or retinoids paired with daily sun protection.

### Where does this treatment go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This treatment goes in the evening routine, after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep things simple and offers extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying your retinol first at night and following with this treatment, or by using retinol on alternating nights to keep your skin calm. Using them carefully helps brighten your skin tone and fade dark spots without causing extra irritation.

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a great fit for your skin with dark spots and is used in the evening routine. You can start by using it once a week, and if you tolerate it well and see good results, you can carefully use it more often.

### Can this treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This treatment is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on skin with dark spots because it is free of harsh ingredients and has an excellent safety profile. Azelaic acid helps brighten skin tone and fade dark spots without irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38734843/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [AMOREPACIFIC Time Response Skin Reserve Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/amorepacific/time-response-skin-reserve-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $525.00 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — $16.75 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $16.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $17.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $12.20 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WD5J8KY?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Dimethicone, Azelaic Acid, Dimethicone Bis-Isobutyl Ppg-20 Crosspolymer, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysilicone-11, Isohexadecane, Tocopherol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Triethanolamine, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## 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-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/azelaic-acid-suspension-10/for/dark-spots