How To Use Skinoren

Complete Step-by-Step Usage Guide, Dosage Instructions & Safety Information

Key Takeaways: How to Use Skinoren

  • Cleanse first: Wash and thoroughly dry the skin before applying a thin layer of cream.
  • Dosage: For the full face, use a 2.5 cm (approx. 0.5 g) ribbon of cream each application.
  • Frequency: Twice daily (morning and evening). Sensitive skin may start with once daily in the evening for the first week.
  • Duration: Visible improvement after 4 weeks; continue for several months for best results. Do not exceed 12 months of continuous use without medical review.
  • Avoid contact: Keep away from eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Wash hands after application.

Skinoren Cream (azelaic acid 20%) is a topical prescription treatment for acne. Using it correctly is essential to achieve clear skin while minimising irritation. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure you get the most from your treatment.

Important Safety Advice

If Skinoren accidentally gets into your eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes, rinse immediately with plenty of cool water. Stop use and seek medical advice if you develop a severe rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing (possible allergic reaction). Rarely, patients with asthma may experience worsening of symptoms – if this occurs, consult your doctor.

How to Use Skinoren: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps each time you apply Skinoren to ensure optimal results and minimise side effects.

  1. Cleanse the skin: Wash the area to be treated with plain water. If your skin is greasy, use a mild skin cleanser. Pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
  2. Apply the cream: Squeeze the required amount onto your fingertip (see dosage guide below). Gently rub it into the affected areas until it disappears. Avoid vigorous rubbing.
  3. Frequency: Unless your doctor advises otherwise, start with twice daily (morning and evening). If you have very sensitive skin, use once daily (in the evening) during the first week, then increase to twice daily.
  4. Wash hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly after applying the cream to prevent accidental transfer to your eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas.
  5. Continue regularly: Acne improves slowly. Use Skinoren consistently for at least 4 weeks before evaluating results. Most people need several months of regular use to achieve maximum benefit.

🗒️ Pro tip: Apply Skinoren after your moisturiser has fully absorbed if you use one, or apply it before moisturiser – whichever suits your skin. Avoid applying to broken or irritated skin.

Dosage Guide: How Much & How Often

The amount of Skinoren you use depends on the size of the area being treated.

Area TreatedRecommended AmountNotes
Full face2.5 cm (approx. 0.5 g) of creamAbout the length of your little finger from the first knuckle to the tip.
Face + chest/backAdjust proportionally; use enough to cover all affected areas with a thin layer.Do not exceed a pea-sized amount per large area unless needed.
Small patchesA pea-sized amount is sufficient.Spread evenly.

Frequency: Twice daily (morning and evening) for most patients. If you experience significant redness or stinging, reduce to once daily (evening) for the first week, then increase as tolerated.

Duration of treatment: Improvement is typically seen after 4 weeks. For sustained clearance, continue using for several months. Do not use continuously for more than 12 months without a doctor’s review.

Who Should Use Skinoren

Skinoren is indicated for the treatment of acne vulgaris in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. It is particularly suitable for:

  • Patients with mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules and pustules).
  • Those with comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads).
  • Individuals who prefer a non‑antibiotic topical treatment.
  • Patients concerned about post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as azelaic acid helps fade dark marks.

Your doctor will confirm if Skinoren is right for your skin type and acne severity.

Who Should Not Use Skinoren

Do not use Skinoren if any of the following apply:

  • Allergy: You are allergic to azelaic acid or any of the other ingredients (benzoic acid, propylene glycol, etc.).
  • Children under 12: Safety and efficacy have not been established in this age group.
  • Broken or irritated skin: Avoid applying to open wounds, sunburned, or severely irritated skin.
  • Asthma (rare): A small number of patients with asthma have reported worsening of symptoms with azelaic acid. If you have asthma, discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment.

⚠️ Important: Skinoren is for external use only. Never take it by mouth or apply it to the inside of your nose, ears, or genital mucosa unless directed by a doctor.

Special Conditions: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Other Considerations

Pregnancy

There is limited experience with azelaic acid during pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown direct harmful effects, but as a precaution, Skinoren should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and after consulting your doctor. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning a baby, seek medical advice before using this medicine.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether azelaic acid passes into breast milk in significant amounts. To minimise any potential risk, do not apply Skinoren to areas that may come into contact with the infant (e.g., the chest area if nursing). Wash your hands thoroughly after application, and ensure the baby does not touch treated skin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before use while breastfeeding.

Application with other products (with/without food analogy)

Since Skinoren is applied to the skin, food does not interact with it. However, you should be cautious about using other skincare products:

  • With other acne treatments: Avoid using Skinoren at the same time as other topical acne preparations (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids) unless your doctor advises otherwise. If used together, apply at different times of the day (e.g., one in the morning, Skinoren in the evening) to reduce irritation.
  • With cosmetics: You may wear makeup after Skinoren has absorbed (wait a few minutes). Use non‑comedogenic products to avoid clogging pores.
  • With moisturisers: Applying a gentle, fragrance‑free moisturiser after Skinoren can help if you experience dryness.

🗒️ Note: The cream contains benzoic acid and propylene glycol, which may cause mild local irritation. This is usually temporary and settles as your skin adapts.

Skinoren Usage FAQs

It’s best to avoid applying them together as this can increase irritation. Your doctor may advise using one in the morning and Skinoren in the evening, or alternating days.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual. Do not double the amount to catch up.

Use only if clearly needed after consulting your doctor. Animal studies haven’t shown harm, but human data are limited. Your doctor will weigh the benefits against any potential risks.

A 30 g tube used twice daily on the full face typically lasts about 1 month. The exact duration depends on the area treated. Discard any remaining cream 6 months after first opening.

Yes, wait a few minutes for the cream to absorb, then apply non‑comedogenic, oil‑free makeup. Avoid heavy foundations that may clog pores.

Need Skinoren with Expert Guidance?

If you have acne and believe Skinoren may be suitable, a UK‑registered doctor can assess your skin and provide a prescription online.

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Nabeel M. - Medical Content Manager at Chemist Doctor
Authored byNabeel M.

Medical Content Manager

Nabeel is a co-founder and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up‑to‑date.

Medical Doctor

Dr. Feroz is a GMC‑registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.

Usman Mir - Superintendent Pharmacist
Approved byUsman Mir

Medical Director

Usman is a co‑founder and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation’s strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.

Review Date: 31 March 2026

Next Review: 30 September 2026

Published on: 31 March 2026

Last Updated: 31 March 2026