Skip to main content

Azelaic acid topical and Stinging: What Users Say

Brand names: Finacea, Azelex, Finevin

Stinging: mentioned by 5 users (4.0%)

Based on user experiences from 126 Azelaic acid topical reviews, the following table shows the most commonly mentioned side effects.

All user comments are moderated by Drugs.com. Each review is verified for relevance and screened for inappropriate content. Side effects are user-reported and not clinically verified.

burning 14.3%
itching 9.5%
acne 4.8%
dryness 4.8%
peeling 4.8%
allergic reaction 4.0%
stinging 4.0%
swelling 4.0%
tingling 3.2%
rash 2.4%

Reviews for Azelaic acid topical

Commonly mentioned side effects
  • Tif...
  • December 5, 2013

Azelaic acid topical for Acne "I have struggled with acne in my adult life for about a year now. It wasn't that bad, then significantly got worse over the past 6 months. I had huge cyst-like pimples and some small ones around my chin mostly, and my cheeks started getting bad as well. I tried every single product out there. I finally went to the dermatologist. Since I got pregnant a few months ago, my acne got even worse. The dermatologist told me all she could give me was Finacea. It's azelaic acid. Literally after 2 days, my pimples started to go down and the number of them started decreasing. It stings a bit and itches, but it's a small price to pay. This is a godsend, and I'm so happy I found it!"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
59 Report
  • Whe...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • October 16, 2015

Azelaic acid topical for Rosacea "I have been using Finacea gel for over a year, with very noticeable results. I apply in the morning and evening, after washing my face, and before applying moisturizer. I occasionally have some stinging and itching after application, and I have noticed this happens when my skin is starting to heal. It isn't bothersome, and I think the benefits outweigh the occasional slight discomfort."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
49 Report
  • Ame...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • April 10, 2015

For Acne "I love this. The trick is to wash your face, dry it, let it dry for 10+ minutes without lotion (yes, this is uncomfortable for a while), then the stinging is greatly minimized or there's none at all. Also, use a pea size. I've had cystic acne all over my face and chest since I was 15, and I'm 33 now. I also had red acne scars all over my face. They're gone. I've been on this medicine for 6 months, and my skin texture is smooth and beautiful, red scars are gone, and new stress pimples/acne are gone. I know medications aren't right for everyone, but for me, this stuff is awesome."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
21 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • Cor...
  • Taken for 10 years or more
  • October 5, 2016

Azelaic acid topical for Rosacea "Been using for 10 years and has always kept my rosacea at bay. It stings during the first week of use but definitely worth enduring that discomfort, the results are amazing! A tube now lasts me almost a year as it only takes a tiny bit of cream to maintain clear skin."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
20 Report
  • Drg...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 12, 2023

Azelaic acid topical for Rosacea "I took Finacea for nine weeks, and it has made my rosacea worse. I have inflammation and pustules, along with burning and stinging sensations, which have increased considerably. It appears to work well for a lot of people, but like every other rosacea treatment, it’s not for everyone."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
3 Report

Are you taking this medicine?

Your review helps others make informed decisions.
Write a review
Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.