What is Skinoren 20% Cream? 

Skinoren 20% Cream is a prescribed medication mainly indicated for the treatment of acne and rosacea. Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid occurring in grains such as rye, wheat, and barley. It inhibits the multiplication process of skin germs, considered one cause of acne. The medication also helps in reducing inflammation in the skin and the development of fresh pimples. 

Applied topically, Skinoren cream works to open up the pores that have become blocked and prevent further inflammation. It helps prevent the new eruptions that are typical in both acne and rosacea. This medicine has shown great effectiveness in diminishing the observable manifestations of the conditions. Additionally, it aids in improving the skin texture and tone. This medicine is prescribed mostly for mild to moderate acne patients but is also used to treat flare-ups of rosacea. 

What is Skinoren 20% Cream Used for? 

Skinoren 20% Cream is indicated as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of the following conditions: 

1. Acne: Skinoren 20% Cream is used for treating acne. It reduces the formation of pimples and acne blemishes by unclogging pores and on the skin by the upregulation of acne-causing bacteria. The active ingredient, azelaic acid helps in the prevention of further breakouts. 

2. Rosacea Management: Rosacea is a condition that causes red and inflamed skin, typically on the face. Skinoren 20% Cream is also used to help treat this condition by reducing inflammation and the appearance of redness and pustules. 

3. Skin Texture: In addition to its use in the treatment of acne and rosacea, Skinoren can also help improve the overall texture of the skin, making it smoother and clearer with consistent use. 

4. Hyperpigmentation Reduction: It also helps to fade the hyperpigmented regions (dark spots) that normally occur after breakouts of acne, making your skin look generally better. 

How Skinoren 20% Cream Works? 

Skinoren 20% Cream works in several ways to promote healthy and smoother-looking skin. Here's how it works: 

Reduces the Growth of Bacteria: The azelaic acid present in Skinoren acts to inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. By preventing bacterial proliferation, the cream reduces the formation of new acne lesions. 

Clearing Clogged Pores: Azelaic acid has an effect on the opening up of clogged pores, which can often be a precursor to blackheads and pimples. Through pore clearing, Skinoren reduces the number of these blemishes. 

Anti-inflammatory Action: Skinoren reduces inflammation, which is a major factor in acne and rosacea. By calming the skin, it helps to prevent swelling, redness, and irritation associated with these conditions. 

When to Consider Skinoren 20% Cream for Acne? 

Skinoren 20% Cream is used for mild to moderate acne. It is not used in severe cases or when oral medication is necessary. The medicine is best suited for those who have recurrent pimples, blackheads, and blocked pores. 

Who Should Use Skinoren 20% Cream? 

Skinoren is best for people who: 

Have mild to moderate acne. 
Are suffering from rosacea or redness on the face. 
Want to treat hyperpigmentation caused by acne. 
Failed to respond well to over-the-counter acne medications. 

Who Should Not Use Skinoren 20% Cream? 

Skinoren is not for the patient who: 

Has any type of allergy, most especially azelaic acid. 
Has any skin sensitivity problems, including eczema or dermatitis. 
Pregnant and breast-feeding, or those women in either status. 
Always, prior to use of this medicine, talk with your doctor first, as appropriate, about how it will work with other medications taken by the patient. 

Can You Buy Skinoren 20% Cream Over the Counter? 

Skinoren 20% Cream is a prescription medicine and cannot be bought over the counter. You have to visit a doctor to get a prescription for this treatment. After getting the prescription, you can buy the cream from pharmacies, either online or in person. 

Before buying Skinoren, you should first consult a doctor to confirm that it is appropriate for your condition. Sometimes, self-diagnosis and self-medication without a doctor's prescription may lead to complications. 

Alternative Medications for Acne and Rosacea 

There are a number of alternative medications that can be used in place of Skinoren 20% Cream to treat acne and rosacea. 

 1. Benzoyl Peroxide 

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common treatments for acne. It kills the bacteria that cause acne and dries out the oils in the skin. Benzoyl peroxide is available in over-the-counter products and in higher concentrations with a prescription. 

 2. Retinoids 

Topical retinoids like tretinoin can be prescribed to treat acne by increasing the rate of cell turnover in the skin. This prevents pores from getting clogged and decreases acne. Retinoids are also applied to minimise the appearance of acne scars. 

3. Oral Medications 

Severe cases of acne are treated with oral medications, such as antibiotics (doxycycline or minocycline), or other hormonal treatments in the form of birth control tablets. Both sorts of medications attack the hormonal and bacterial causes of the condition. 

 4. Topical Antibiotics 

Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin reduce the bacteria on the skin, similar to azelaic acid. It is often used in conjunction with other acne treatments for more profound impacts.

How to Use Skinoren 20% Cream? 

Skinoren 20% Cream is applied directly to the affected areas of the skin. Here's how to use it properly: 

 Step 1: Cleanse the Skin 

Wash your face with a mild soap or cleanser and pat it dry with a clean towel. Make sure your skin is dry before applying the cream. 

 Step 2: Apply a Thin Layer 

Squeeze a small amount of Skinoren 20% Cream and apply a thin layer to the affected areas. Be sure to avoid the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. 

 Step 3: Massage Gently 

Gently massage the cream into the skin, ensuring it’s absorbed evenly. Do not apply too much—just enough to cover the affected area. 

 Step 4: Wash Hands 

Wash your hands after applying the cream to get rid of any remaining residue and to steer clear of accidental contact with your eyes or mouth. 

Apply Skinoren 20% Cream once or twice every day according to prescription by your doctor. Maintain a regular application for best results.

Active Ingredients:  

Azelaic Acid 20% 

Inactive Ingredients:  

Water 

Propylene Glycol 

Stearyl Alcohol 

Cetyl Alcohol 

Glycerol, and others to make up the cream. 

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

The incidence of side effects from Skinoren 20% Cream is not universal. The most common side effects of this cream are: 

Skin irritation (burning sensation, itching, stinging) 
Dryness and peeling of skin 
Redness and red skin 
Rash and hives 
Allergic reaction rarely 
Increased sensitivity to sunlight 
Contact dermatitis 
Swells up in rare cases 

If any of these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor immediately. In the event of severe allergic reactions like swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help.