Anti Acne Face Serum with 10% Azelaic Acid & 2% Salicylic Acid - 30 ml

What you need to know

This is a serum from Hyphen priced at ₹649.

Key ingredients

This serum features 10% azelaic acid, an often underrated active known for its multifaceted benefits. Azelaic acid helps reduce inflammation, kill acne-causing bacteria, and fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is also beneficial for rosacea-prone skin due to its redness-reducing properties. However, higher concentrations can cause temporary stinging, itching, or redness, especially during initial use. Patience is key when introducing azelaic acid; start slowly to allow your skin to adjust.

Who should use this

This serum is ideal for individuals with persistent acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and post-acne marks. It is particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin types that can tolerate active ingredients. Those experiencing mild to moderate inflammatory acne may find this combination effective.

Who should skip this

Pregnant women should avoid this product as it contains salicylic acid. Individuals with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers should also skip this serum due to the high concentration of two potent actives. If you are already using other exfoliants or strong actives like retinoids, introducing this serum could lead to irritation, over-exfoliation, and a damaged skin barrier. Anyone new to actives should proceed with extreme caution or opt for a single active instead.

How to use

Apply 2-3 drops to clean, dry skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. Use once daily, preferably in the evening. Given the strength of this serum, do not layer it with other active ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, or vitamin C. Always follow with a good moisturizer and a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning. For pregnant women, use 100% mineral sunscreens only.

What users say

With 200 reviews on Nykaa, users generally praise Hyphen's Anti Acne Face Serum. The combination of 10% azelaic acid and 2% salicylic acid is frequently highlighted as effective for tackling acne, redness, and post-acne marks. Many find it well-formulated for acne-prone skin and consider it one of Hyphen's better offerings.

Price context

At Rs649 for 30ml, this serum is priced on the higher side for an Indian brand, especially when considering alternatives. While the formulation is decent, brands like Minimalist offer similar active concentrations at nearly half the price, making Hyphen's offering a harder sell for budget-conscious consumers. You are paying a celebrity tax here, which might not translate to better efficacy compared to more affordably priced, well-formulated options.

Final take

This serum is a genuinely effective option for those struggling with persistent acne and post-acne marks, provided your skin can tolerate strong actives. However, its higher price point and the need for a simplified routine make it less accessible for everyone. If you are looking for a single, powerful acne treatment and do not mind the cost, this could be a good fit, but always prioritize a healthy skin barrier over aggressive treatment.

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