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Publications
4 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
My Dad the Chemist offers a measured and critical assessment of The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, highlighting its silicone-heavy formulation and thick, waxy texture as major drawbacks that may not suit all skin types. While the reviewer appreciates the transparency in ingredient concentration (10% azelaic acid) and explains the ingredient’s potential benefits for acne and inflammation, they note that most clinical studies demonstrating efficacy use higher concentrations (15–20%). The review provides useful context by referencing scientific research and user experience concerns like pilling when layered with other products. Despite months of consistent use, the reviewer did not observe significant positive effects and found the texture off-putting, ultimately deciding not to repurchase. This nuanced critique balances ingredient analysis, real-world usability, and personal results, offering a thoughtful perspective that may help readers weigh the trade-offs of this formula compared to other azelaic acid options.
Reviewed highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, gentle, and effective solution for acne, redness, and scarring. The reviewer, Fabiola Mejia, shares a personal journey from struggling with harsh acne treatments to discovering this $10 product that brightens complexion and reduces inflammation without causing dryness or irritation. She appreciates its multifunctional benefits and ease of integration into her skincare routine, noting visible improvements within weeks. However, she candidly critiques the serum’s thick, paste-like texture and powdery finish, which can pill and feel heavy—making it better suited for nighttime use rather than layering under makeup or sunscreen. Despite these application quirks, the overall tone is positive and measured, emphasizing the product’s value and effectiveness for those willing to tolerate its unique feel. This review offers a balanced perspective with practical insights on usage and results, making it a helpful guide for acne-prone skin seekers on a budget.
My Dad the Chemist offers a measured and critical assessment of The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, highlighting its silicone-heavy formulation and thick, waxy texture as major drawbacks that may not suit all skin types. While the reviewer appreciates the transparency in ingredient concentration (10% azelaic acid) and explains the ingredient’s potential benefits for acne and inflammation, they note that most clinical studies demonstrating efficacy use higher concentrations (15–20%). The review provides useful context by referencing scientific research and user experience concerns like pilling when layered with other products. Despite months of consistent use, the reviewer did not observe significant positive effects and found the texture off-putting, ultimately deciding not to repurchase. This nuanced critique balances ingredient analysis, real-world usability, and personal results, offering a thoughtful perspective that may help readers weigh the trade-offs of this formula compared to other azelaic acid options.
Reviewed highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, gentle, and effective solution for acne, redness, and scarring. The reviewer, Fabiola Mejia, shares a personal journey from struggling with harsh acne treatments to discovering this $10 product that brightens complexion and reduces inflammation without causing dryness or irritation. She appreciates its multifunctional benefits and ease of integration into her skincare routine, noting visible improvements within weeks. However, she candidly critiques the serum’s thick, paste-like texture and powdery finish, which can pill and feel heavy—making it better suited for nighttime use rather than layering under makeup or sunscreen. Despite these application quirks, the overall tone is positive and measured, emphasizing the product’s value and effectiveness for those willing to tolerate its unique feel. This review offers a balanced perspective with practical insights on usage and results, making it a helpful guide for acne-prone skin seekers on a budget.
YouTube
12 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Cassandra Bankson recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its high concentration and affordability, praising its effectiveness for rosacea and acne despite a chalky, dimethicone-based texture that can ball up under makeup. She values its potency but notes cosmetic drawbacks compared to more elegant, pricier alternatives.
Doctorly highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, effective acne and hyperpigmentation treatment with a moisturizing, cream-like feel. They note its slightly gritty texture and potential for pilling when layered but appreciate its accessibility compared to prescription-strength options. The review balances enthusiasm for its benefits with thoughtful caveats on concentration and formulation.
Cassandra Bankson recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its high concentration and affordability, praising its effectiveness for rosacea and acne despite a chalky, dimethicone-based texture that can ball up under makeup. She values its potency but notes cosmetic drawbacks compared to more elegant, pricier alternatives.
Doctorly highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, effective acne and hyperpigmentation treatment with a moisturizing, cream-like feel. They note its slightly gritty texture and potential for pilling when layered but appreciate its accessibility compared to prescription-strength options. The review balances enthusiasm for its benefits with thoughtful caveats on concentration and formulation.
Cassandra Bankson recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its high concentration and affordability, praising its effectiveness for rosacea and acne despite a chalky, dimethicone-based texture that can ball up under makeup. She values its potency but notes cosmetic drawbacks compared to more elegant, pricier alternatives.
Doctorly highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, effective acne and hyperpigmentation treatment with a moisturizing, cream-like feel. They note its slightly gritty texture and potential for pilling when layered but appreciate its accessibility compared to prescription-strength options. The review balances enthusiasm for its benefits with thoughtful caveats on concentration and formulation.
Cassandra Bankson recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its high concentration and affordability, praising its effectiveness for rosacea and acne despite a chalky, dimethicone-based texture that can ball up under makeup. She values its potency but notes cosmetic drawbacks compared to more elegant, pricier alternatives.
Doctorly highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, effective acne and hyperpigmentation treatment with a moisturizing, cream-like feel. They note its slightly gritty texture and potential for pilling when layered but appreciate its accessibility compared to prescription-strength options. The review balances enthusiasm for its benefits with thoughtful caveats on concentration and formulation.
Cassandra Bankson recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its high concentration and affordability, praising its effectiveness for rosacea and acne despite a chalky, dimethicone-based texture that can ball up under makeup. She values its potency but notes cosmetic drawbacks compared to more elegant, pricier alternatives.
Doctorly highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, effective acne and hyperpigmentation treatment with a moisturizing, cream-like feel. They note its slightly gritty texture and potential for pilling when layered but appreciate its accessibility compared to prescription-strength options. The review balances enthusiasm for its benefits with thoughtful caveats on concentration and formulation.
Cassandra Bankson recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its high concentration and affordability, praising its effectiveness for rosacea and acne despite a chalky, dimethicone-based texture that can ball up under makeup. She values its potency but notes cosmetic drawbacks compared to more elegant, pricier alternatives.
Doctorly highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an affordable, effective acne and hyperpigmentation treatment with a moisturizing, cream-like feel. They note its slightly gritty texture and potential for pilling when layered but appreciate its accessibility compared to prescription-strength options. The review balances enthusiasm for its benefits with thoughtful caveats on concentration and formulation.
Social
5 INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Chemist Confessions highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as a classic but somewhat problematic formula, especially for dry skin. They note its thick, pasty texture and strong initial stinging sensation, which was more intense than other azelaic acid products tested. While it has historical popularity, it didn’t layer well and felt overly drying. Overall, Chemist Confessions offers a cautious recommendation, suggesting that while azelaic acid can benefit acne-prone or sensitive skin, this particular suspension may not be the best choice. They encourage exploring lighter, emulsion-based alternatives for a cleaner finish and better wearability in a skincare routine.
Katarina from We (Skin)care at UCI highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as a gentle yet effective acid for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. She praises its ability to smooth texture, brighten complexion, and fade stubborn acne scars without irritation, noting its surprisingly non-greasy absorption despite a thicker consistency. While she considers adding lactic acid to further improve pigmentation, she highly recommends this product as a great introduction to acids for sensitive skin. Overall, Katarina’s experience is positive and encouraging, making this serum a thoughtful choice for those seeking gentle exfoliation and skin renewal.
Chemist Confessions highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as a classic but somewhat problematic formula, especially for dry skin. They note its thick, pasty texture and strong initial stinging sensation, which was more intense than other azelaic acid products tested. While it has historical popularity, it didn’t layer well and felt overly drying. Overall, Chemist Confessions offers a cautious recommendation, suggesting that while azelaic acid can benefit acne-prone or sensitive skin, this particular suspension may not be the best choice. They encourage exploring lighter, emulsion-based alternatives for a cleaner finish and better wearability in a skincare routine.
Katarina from We (Skin)care at UCI highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as a gentle yet effective acid for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. She praises its ability to smooth texture, brighten complexion, and fade stubborn acne scars without irritation, noting its surprisingly non-greasy absorption despite a thicker consistency. While she considers adding lactic acid to further improve pigmentation, she highly recommends this product as a great introduction to acids for sensitive skin. Overall, Katarina’s experience is positive and encouraging, making this serum a thoughtful choice for those seeking gentle exfoliation and skin renewal.
Chemist Confessions highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as a classic but somewhat problematic formula, especially for dry skin. They note its thick, pasty texture and strong initial stinging sensation, which was more intense than other azelaic acid products tested. While it has historical popularity, it didn’t layer well and felt overly drying. Overall, Chemist Confessions offers a cautious recommendation, suggesting that while azelaic acid can benefit acne-prone or sensitive skin, this particular suspension may not be the best choice. They encourage exploring lighter, emulsion-based alternatives for a cleaner finish and better wearability in a skincare routine.
Katarina from We (Skin)care at UCI highlights The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as a gentle yet effective acid for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. She praises its ability to smooth texture, brighten complexion, and fade stubborn acne scars without irritation, noting its surprisingly non-greasy absorption despite a thicker consistency. While she considers adding lactic acid to further improve pigmentation, she highly recommends this product as a great introduction to acids for sensitive skin. Overall, Katarina’s experience is positive and encouraging, making this serum a thoughtful choice for those seeking gentle exfoliation and skin renewal.
Store Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 5 STORES
Users on Sephora praise The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its remarkable effectiveness in treating acne, rosacea, redness, and hyperpigmentation, often calling it a game changer and holy grail product. Many highlight its ability to clear stubborn hormonal and cystic acne, fade acne scars, and reduce redness and inflammation, with some reporting visible improvements within days to weeks. Reviewers with rosacea and perioral dermatitis especially appreciate how it calms flare-ups and smooths skin texture. Several customers note that the product works well as a spot treatment or when applied sparingly, emphasizing that gentle patting rather than rubbing prevents pilling and peeling. Users also find it affordable compared to prescription alternatives, making it accessible for large-area use, including body acne on the back and buttocks. While the thick, silicone-rich texture can cause pilling if applied incorrectly or layered too soon, many share tips to avoid this by waiting for the product to dry fully before applying moisturizers or makeup. Some users with deeper skin tones or very sensitive skin report issues with a white cast, dryness, or irritation, advising caution and recommending pairing with hydrating products. A few reviewers mention unusual side effects like numbness or increased facial hair growth, though these appear rare. Overall, Sephora customers value the suspension’s potent brightening and anti-inflammatory properties, its role in improving skin clarity and smoothness, and its versatility in various skincare routines, making it a standout affordable option for those battling acne and redness.
4.1 Stars / Many verified reviews
Amazon users praise The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its effectiveness in reducing redness, calming cystic acne, and evening out skin tone and texture. Many highlight its lightweight, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing formula that suits sensitive skin and layers well under moisturizers and sunscreen. Reviewers appreciate how it visibly fades post-acne marks and redness over consistent use, delivering a smoother, brighter complexion without harsh irritation. Some users note the unique silicone-based texture provides a matte finish but can cause pilling when layered with other products, recommending it as a final step in nighttime routines. While most find it gentle and affordable, a few caution that it may dry or thin the skin and might not suit all sensitive skin types. Additionally, several customers express frustration with the packaging, reporting that the tube often contains less product than expected. Overall, Amazon reviewers consider this suspension a valuable, budget-friendly addition to skincare regimens targeting blemishes, redness, and uneven tone.
4.5 Stars / Many verified reviews
Users on Sephora praise The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its remarkable effectiveness in treating acne, rosacea, redness, and hyperpigmentation, often calling it a game changer and holy grail product. Many highlight its ability to clear stubborn hormonal and cystic acne, fade acne scars, and reduce redness and inflammation, with some reporting visible improvements within days to weeks. Reviewers with rosacea and perioral dermatitis especially appreciate how it calms flare-ups and smooths skin texture. Several customers note that the product works well as a spot treatment or when applied sparingly, emphasizing that gentle patting rather than rubbing prevents pilling and peeling. Users also find it affordable compared to prescription alternatives, making it accessible for large-area use, including body acne on the back and buttocks. While the thick, silicone-rich texture can cause pilling if applied incorrectly or layered too soon, many share tips to avoid this by waiting for the product to dry fully before applying moisturizers or makeup. Some users with deeper skin tones or very sensitive skin report issues with a white cast, dryness, or irritation, advising caution and recommending pairing with hydrating products. A few reviewers mention unusual side effects like numbness or increased facial hair growth, though these appear rare. Overall, Sephora customers value the suspension’s potent brightening and anti-inflammatory properties, its role in improving skin clarity and smoothness, and its versatility in various skincare routines, making it a standout affordable option for those battling acne and redness.
4.1 Stars / Many verified reviews
Amazon users praise The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its effectiveness in reducing redness, calming cystic acne, and evening out skin tone and texture. Many highlight its lightweight, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing formula that suits sensitive skin and layers well under moisturizers and sunscreen. Reviewers appreciate how it visibly fades post-acne marks and redness over consistent use, delivering a smoother, brighter complexion without harsh irritation. Some users note the unique silicone-based texture provides a matte finish but can cause pilling when layered with other products, recommending it as a final step in nighttime routines. While most find it gentle and affordable, a few caution that it may dry or thin the skin and might not suit all sensitive skin types. Additionally, several customers express frustration with the packaging, reporting that the tube often contains less product than expected. Overall, Amazon reviewers consider this suspension a valuable, budget-friendly addition to skincare regimens targeting blemishes, redness, and uneven tone.
4.5 Stars / Many verified reviews
Users on Sephora praise The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its remarkable effectiveness in treating acne, rosacea, redness, and hyperpigmentation, often calling it a game changer and holy grail product. Many highlight its ability to clear stubborn hormonal and cystic acne, fade acne scars, and reduce redness and inflammation, with some reporting visible improvements within days to weeks. Reviewers with rosacea and perioral dermatitis especially appreciate how it calms flare-ups and smooths skin texture. Several customers note that the product works well as a spot treatment or when applied sparingly, emphasizing that gentle patting rather than rubbing prevents pilling and peeling. Users also find it affordable compared to prescription alternatives, making it accessible for large-area use, including body acne on the back and buttocks. While the thick, silicone-rich texture can cause pilling if applied incorrectly or layered too soon, many share tips to avoid this by waiting for the product to dry fully before applying moisturizers or makeup. Some users with deeper skin tones or very sensitive skin report issues with a white cast, dryness, or irritation, advising caution and recommending pairing with hydrating products. A few reviewers mention unusual side effects like numbness or increased facial hair growth, though these appear rare. Overall, Sephora customers value the suspension’s potent brightening and anti-inflammatory properties, its role in improving skin clarity and smoothness, and its versatility in various skincare routines, making it a standout affordable option for those battling acne and redness.
4.1 Stars / Many verified reviews
Amazon users praise The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% for its effectiveness in reducing redness, calming cystic acne, and evening out skin tone and texture. Many highlight its lightweight, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing formula that suits sensitive skin and layers well under moisturizers and sunscreen. Reviewers appreciate how it visibly fades post-acne marks and redness over consistent use, delivering a smoother, brighter complexion without harsh irritation. Some users note the unique silicone-based texture provides a matte finish but can cause pilling when layered with other products, recommending it as a final step in nighttime routines. While most find it gentle and affordable, a few caution that it may dry or thin the skin and might not suit all sensitive skin types. Additionally, several customers express frustration with the packaging, reporting that the tube often contains less product than expected. Overall, Amazon reviewers consider this suspension a valuable, budget-friendly addition to skincare regimens targeting blemishes, redness, and uneven tone.
4.5 Stars / Many verified reviews
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Reddit users generally view The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% as an effective and affordable option for reducing redness, acne, and mild pigmentation, with many praising its fast absorption and noticeable results, especially for rosacea and breakout-prone skin. However, critiques focus on its thick, sometimes chalky texture that can cause pilling and layering difficulties, leading some to limit use to nighttime. While some find it slightly drying or irritating initially, most recommend gradual introduction and moisturizing alongside. Experienced users often compare it to higher-concentration or alternative formulations, noting The Ordinary’s version is gentler but less potent, making it suitable for sensitive skin or beginners.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Reduces redness and inflammationReviewers report calmer, less red skin.
- •Brightens and fades dark spotsRegular use lightens hyperpigmentation and marks.
- •Improves skin texture and smoothnessUsers note refined texture and smoother tone.
- •Helps control acne and breakoutsReported reduction in blemishes, including cystic.
- •High active concentration at low costContains 10% azelaic acid affordably.
- •Mattifying, non-greasy finishLeaves a velvety, matte surface.
Considerations
- •Product pilling when layeredTends to ball up under other products.
- •Initial tingling, dryness, or stingingMay cause temporary irritation on first uses.
- •Silicone-heavy, chalky finishDimethicone can feel waxy or powdery.
- •Reports of underfilled packagingMany customers received partially filled tubes.
- •May be less potent than higher strengths10% may underperform versus 15–20% formulations.
- •Can leave a white cast on deeper tonesVisible chalkiness reported on darker skin.
Hailing from a brand renowned for democratizing effective skincare, this 10% azelaic acid suspension stakes its claim as an affordable powerhouse targeting uneven tone, redness, and texture woes. Designed for those seeking clarity without compromise—especially rosacea-prone and acne-challenged skin—it delivers a high concentration of active ingredient in a gentle cream-like formula. While the silicone-rich base lends a coveted matte, velvety finish, it also sparks lively debate over its tendency to pill when layered. The formulation balances potency with soothing qualities, making it suitable even for sensitive complexions prone to irritation or dryness. Users should note the product’s somewhat contentious packaging fill alongside its carefully maintained pH range (4.00–5.00) that supports efficacy without harshness. Whether you’re chasing brightening benefits or calming inflammation on a budget, understanding how texture plays with layering and initial skin reactions will be key—because in this case, looks can definitely deceive under makeup layers. Let’s unpack what makes this formula both beloved and baffling in equal measure.

Active Concentration and Formulation
Packed with 10% azelaic acid suspended rather than dissolved ensures potent delivery balanced by gentleness—a clever twist avoiding typical irritation seen at higher strengths (15-20%). The formula’s inclusion of dimethicone smooths skin yet invites criticism for heaviness affecting wearability. Absence of fragrance alongside vegan-friendly claims appeals to clean beauty devotees seeking transparency without compromise. This careful balance makes the product stand out as an accessible alternative to prescription-grade treatments though some question if 10% hits peak efficacy thresholds.

Efficacy on Tone, Texture, and Redness
This formulation shines in targeting uneven tone, rough texture, and stubborn redness with impressive finesse. The 10% azelaic acid concentration effectively brightens skin tone while smoothing imperfections and calming inflammation—making it a go-to for rosacea-prone users craving clarity without harsh irritation. Visible improvements often emerge within weeks as blemishes fade and radiance returns; it's no wonder fans dub it a game changer for redness reduction, offering tangible confidence boosts in everyday glow-ups.

Texture and Layering Behavior
The texture of this suspension is a thick, silicone-rich cream that delivers a matte finish but comes with its quirks. Users frequently report pilling or balling up when layering it under serums, moisturizers, or makeup—a common cosmetic faux pas that can disrupt your morning routine. While the brand touts quick absorption and a velvety feel, the reality demands patience: applying sparingly and allowing full drying time helps tame the infamous pilling issue. This unique tactile experience divides opinion but certainly keeps skincare enthusiasts talking.

Skin Tolerance and Initial Reactions
While lauded for being gentle enough even on sensitive or rosacea-prone skin types, first encounters may bring mild tingling or dryness—typical signals from active acids nudging cellular renewal into gear. Experts recommend patch testing given occasional reports of stinging or tightness during early use phases; these sensations usually mellow over time as tolerance builds. Such trade-offs underscore the importance of slow introduction paired with hydration strategies to maintain comfort without sacrificing benefits inherent in this high-strength yet soothing formula.
Conclusion
Navigating the silicone-rich texture and layering behavior feels like a delicate dance—patience is key to avoiding that notorious pilling. The 10% azelaic acid concentration strikes a thoughtful balance, delivering visible wins in tone, texture, and redness without the harsh sting of higher strengths. Its carefully maintained pH range supports this gentle efficacy, making it approachable for sensitive skin despite some initial tingling or dryness. However, the persistent grumble about underfilled packaging reminds us that value isn’t just what’s inside but how it’s presented. This formula shines brightest when you appreciate its multi-tasking prowess: calming inflammation while smoothing rough patches with quiet efficiency. Not suited for those craving silky elegance or fuss-free layering rituals, it rewards ritualistic users who embrace its quirks for real results. In short, this suspension waltzes between power and peculiarity—a compelling choice if you’re after bold benefits wrapped in an unpolished charm with a touch of restraint on volume expectations.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Active Ingredient Potency
4/5
Absorption Rate
4/5
Visible Results Speed
4/5
Hydration Performance
2/5
Stability and Shelf Life
4/5
Skin Compatibility
4/5
Layering Compatibility
2/5
Value
Price to Quality Ratio
5/5
Cost Per Use
4/5
Availability of Size Options
3/5
Design
Packaging Design Appeal
3/5
Applicator Ergonomics
4/5
Label Clarity
4/5
Health
Ingredient Safety
4/5
Hypoallergenic Formulation
4/5
Non Comedogenic Performance
3/5
Clinical Testing Evidence
2/5
Safety
Microbial Safety
4/5
Usage and Warning Clarity
4/5
Packaging Integrity
3/5
Sustainability
Recyclable Packaging
3/5
Refillable Options
TBD
Sustainable Ingredient Sourcing
2/5
Minimal Waste Packaging
2/5
Experience Style
Routine Simplicity
4/5
Range of Targeted Formulas
4/5
Sensory Experience
3/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
4 Questions


















