Background

Azelaic acid is a simple molecule found in some whole grains and in trace amounts in human bodies. Research suggests that it is a strong Type I 5-alpha reductase (5-AR) inhibitor.

The enzyme 5-AR (both Types I and II) converts testosterone to DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss.

Azelaic acid may be useful as a hair growth stimulant, although no clinical studies have yet confirmed its effectiveness in regrowing hair.

Side effects

Some of the possible side effects associated with using azelaic acid are white spots or lightening of treated areas of dark skin on dark-complexioned patients (although the treated areas are usually not lightened beyond normal skin colour). Other side effects include burning, stinging or tingling of skin; and dryness, itching, peeling or redness of skin.