About Skinoren 20% 50g
Prescription item. A medical assessment is required before this product can be supplied.
In short: Skinoren 20% Cream contains azelaic acid 200mg per gram and is licensed in the UK for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. It is usually applied twice daily, with a distinct improvement generally seen after about 4 weeks and best results over several months. It is prescription-only, so a medical assessment is required. (Source: Skinoren 20% Cream SmPC, LEO Laboratories)
Skinoren 20% Cream: key facts
| Active ingredient | Azelaic acid 20% w/w (200mg/g) |
| Licensed use (UK) | Topical treatment of acne vulgaris |
| Pack size | 50g tube |
| Usual use | Twice daily, morning and evening; about 2.5cm (0.5g) covers the whole face |
| When results show | Distinct improvement usually after about 4 weeks |
| Marketing authorisation holder | LEO Laboratories Ltd (PL 00043/0236) |
| Status | Prescription-only medicine. Medical assessment required. |
About this treatment
Skinoren 20% Cream is a topical cream containing azelaic acid 20%. It is a prescription-only medicine in the United Kingdom and is licensed for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.
What it is used for
Skinoren 20% Cream is used for acne. Its effect is thought to come from its antimicrobial action against acne bacteria and a direct effect on the build-up of keratin in the pores (follicular hyperkeratosis). Rosacea is treated with a different azelaic acid product (a 15% gel), not with Skinoren 20% Cream, so a prescriber will check which product fits the condition.
How to apply Skinoren 20% Cream
- Wash the skin with plain water (a mild cleanser may be used) and dry it.
- Apply to the affected areas twice daily, morning and evening, and rub in gently. As a guide, 2.5cm (about 0.5g) is enough for the whole face.
- If your skin is sensitive, your prescriber may advise once daily (in the evening) for the first week.
- Wash your hands after applying, and avoid the eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes.
- Keep using it regularly; best results come with continuous use over several months.
If irritation is hard to tolerate, the amount or frequency may be reduced, or treatment paused for a few days, as advised by your prescriber.
Active ingredient
- Azelaic acid 20%: a dicarboxylic acid with antimicrobial and comedolytic effects, used in the treatment of acne.
Inactive ingredients
Benzoic acid (E210), cetearyl octanoate and isopropyl myristate, glycerol, propylene glycol, purified water, stearoyl macrogolglycerides, glycerol monostearate and cetostearyl alcohol. Benzoic acid and cetostearyl alcohol may cause local skin reactions.
Important information
- For external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth and mucous membranes; if contact happens, rinse with plenty of water.
- Worsening of asthma has been reported rarely.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: caution is advised, and infants must not come into contact with treated skin. Discuss this with your prescriber.
- Do not use if you are allergic to azelaic acid or any other ingredient.
- Once opened, use within 6 months. Do not store above 30°C.
Possible side effects
- Very common: burning, itching and redness where it is applied
- Common: peeling, dryness, pain, irritation or discolouration where applied
- Local irritation usually settles as treatment continues
- Seek medical advice if side effects persist or worsen
Frequently asked questions
What is azelaic acid and how does it work?
Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid. In acne it reduces acne bacteria on the skin and normalises the build-up of skin cells that blocks pores.
Is Skinoren 20% available without a prescription?
No. Skinoren 20% Cream is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.
How long does Skinoren take to work?
A distinct improvement usually becomes apparent after about 4 weeks, and the best results come from continuous use over several months. Clinical experience covers continuous use for up to a year.
Is Skinoren 20% Cream used for rosacea?
Skinoren 20% Cream is licensed for acne. Azelaic acid for rosacea is a separate 15% gel product, so your prescriber will advise which product is appropriate.
Can I use Skinoren with other acne treatments?
Your prescriber will advise on combining Skinoren with other treatments as part of your individual treatment plan.
Can I use Skinoren during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The prescribing information advises caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and infants must not come into contact with treated skin. A prescriber will advise whether it is appropriate for you.
Source: Skinoren 20% Cream Summary of Product Characteristics (emc, revised 6 September 2023).
What to expect
How long does Skinoren take to work?
Improvement in acne is usually seen after about 4 weeks, with the best results after several months of regular use.
How is Skinoren usually started?
A thin layer is applied to clean, dry skin twice a day, morning and evening, and rubbed in gently. If the skin feels irritated, it can be applied once a day until it settles. Always follow the directions supplied with the treatment.
What are the common side effects?
A burning, itching or stinging feeling and mild redness or dryness when applied. These are usually mild and tend to ease within the first few weeks.
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