Skinoren Cream

Skinoren is a prescription-only cream containing 20% azelaic acid, used to treat mild to moderate acne. It can be applied to the face, chest, and back and works in three ways — it kills the bacteria that cause acne, slows the production of keratin skin cells that block pores and cause blackheads and whiteheads, and reduces inflammation to help calm redness and swelling. An added benefit of Skinoren is that it can also help to fade the dark marks and pigmentation that acne often leaves behind, making it a popular choice for people who struggle with post-acne scarring as well as active breakouts. A consultation with one of our clinicians at Access Doctor is required before it can be prescribed.

Apply a thin layer of Skinoren to clean, dry skin twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening. For the face, around 2.5cm of cream (roughly a fingertip length) is typically enough. Wash your hands before and after applying the cream, and avoid getting it in your eyes, mouth, or nose — if you do, rinse immediately with plenty of cool water. Do not apply Skinoren immediately before a bath or shower. If you have sensitive skin, start by using it once a day in the evening for the first week to allow your skin to adjust, then move to twice daily.

Skinoren is not an instant fix and needs to be used consistently to see results. Most people start to notice a clear improvement in their acne after about 4 to 8 weeks of regular use. To get the best results, it's important to continue using Skinoren for several months even once your skin starts to improve. Some people experience a temporary worsening of acne — sometimes called purging — in the first few weeks, which is normal as the cream clears congestion from the pores. If your skin hasn't improved after 3 months of consistent use, speak to your clinician at Access Doctor.

Yes — a stinging, burning, or tingling sensation after applying Skinoren is very common, particularly in the first few weeks of use, and does not mean the cream is harming your skin. Some redness, dryness, and itching at the application site are also commonly reported. These reactions usually settle as your skin adjusts, typically within 2 to 3 weeks. To reduce irritation, make sure your skin is completely dry before applying (wait at least 10 to 15 minutes after washing), and consider applying a lightweight moisturiser before the cream to act as a buffer. If irritation is severe or persists beyond a few weeks, speak to your doctor.

Skinoren can be used on its own or alongside oral antibiotic treatments such as doxycycline or lymecycline for more stubborn or severe acne. However, you should avoid using other topical acne creams or gels at the same time as Skinoren, as this can increase skin irritation. Always follow the advice of your prescribing clinician at Access Doctor regarding which treatments to use together, and let them know about any other skincare products you are currently using.

Yes — one of the additional benefits of Skinoren is its ability to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is the dark spots and marks that are often left behind after a spot heals. Azelaic acid has mild skin-lightening properties that can help to even out skin tone over time with regular use. This makes Skinoren a useful treatment not only for active breakouts but also for the marks they leave behind.

Skinoren is a topical cream and very little of its active ingredient is absorbed into the bloodstream, which means the risk is low. However, as there are limited studies in pregnant women, Skinoren should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor considers it necessary and has specifically advised it. If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying Skinoren to the chest or breast area to prevent any contact with your baby. Always speak to your GP before using any prescription skincare treatment during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.