Azelaic Acid

Uses & Applications

Azelaic acid applications span numerous industries, as the chemical is highly favored for its status as a dicarboxylic acid. Some of the most common applications of azelaic acid include the following:

• Medical: Azelaic acid is an active ingredient in many topical creams and other prescription treatments for light-to-moderate acne. Like other dicarboxylic acids, it is effective at killing acne-causing bacteria and decreasing keratin production. It’s also effective at reducing inflammation, making it a good treatment for rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions. Products containing azelaic acid are also used to treat rosacea, melasma and other skin pigmentation problems.
• Polymers: Azelaic acid esters are used as a basic component of renewable and degradable plastics. Because our product is derived entirely from plant sources, it is better for the environment than plastics produced wholly from fossil fuels. Azelaic acid is also used to prepare PVC plasticizers.
• Lubricants and Corrosion Inhibitors: Azelaic acid is a component of synthetic lubricants and corrosion inhibitors, and is frequently used as a thickening agent in lithium complex greases.

Within these applications, pelargonic acid poses mild hazards to human health and safety — it can cause skin irritation and is an eye irritant. In rare cases, it can cause an allergic reaction, and consistent contact with the skin can result in lightening of skin color. It should not be ingested or inhaled. It should also be avoided during pregnancy, as there are some studies that link azelaic acid with developmental disorders.

Handling and Storage Information

Acme-Hardesty azelaic acid powder should be kept in a tightly closed container away from sources of heat, light and flames. Exposure to any of these factors can cause degradation and damage to the material, as well as other hazards. Long-term storage should be at temperatures between 16-40°C, in a dry and well-ventilated place. As it is a powder, it poses an explosive risk and should be handled with appropriate care.

Azelaic acid is a mild irritant. Appropriate first aid procedures should be followed in the event of contact with the skin or eyes. Wear protective clothing, safety glasses and a dust respirator at all times when handling azelaic acid powder. Discard unused or spoiled product in accordance with local regulations and handle spills promptly.

For detailed storage and handling information, please consult the azelaic acid MSDS sheet, available for download on this page.

Your Source for Sustainable Azelaic Acid

Acme-Hardesty has partnered with Matrica, an Italian firm offering renewable biochemicals and related products, to be your exclusive supplier of LA001M azelaic acid and other products from the Matrilox lineup. As a leader in sustainable fatty acids for the better part of a century, Acme-Hardesty is always looking for partners who share our vision of making responsible industrial chemicals accessible to customers around the world.

Like us, Matrica is committed to oversight at all stages of the supply chain. The company works exclusively with European producers to source ethically harvested raw materials with a low environmental impact. By working closely with farmers, suppliers and intermediaries, Matrica and Acme-Hardesty are proactively building stronger communities from the ground up.