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Finacea Cream

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Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: Cream

Azelaic Acid

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Finacea is a prescription topical medication used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, particularly mild to moderate rosacea.

Finacea contains azelaic acid, an ingredient that helps reduce skin inflammation, control certain acne-related bacteria, and improve the normal shedding of dead skin cells.

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and keratinization-regulating properties.

Finacea is commonly available as a 15% topical gel, which is approved in Canada and the United States for treating inflammatory bumps associated with rosacea. In certain other countries, Finacea 15% Gel is also approved for mild to moderate acne.

Azelaic acid is also available in other formulations, including 20% creams used to treat acne vulgaris.

Your healthcare provider will determine whether Finacea is appropriate based on your skin condition, the severity of your symptoms, and your previous response to skincare treatments. 

Treatment of Rosacea

Finacea is used to treat inflammatory papules and pustules associated with mild to moderate rosacea.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that commonly affects the central part of the face, including the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.

People with rosacea may experience facial redness, sensitive skin, burning, stinging, and acne-like bumps.

Although rosacea can resemble acne, the two conditions have different underlying causes and may require different treatments.

Finacea is particularly effective for papulopustular rosacea, a form of rosacea that causes red, raised bumps and pus-filled lesions.

The medication may help relieve the following symptoms:

  • Inflammatory Papules: Small, red, raised bumps that develop on the face. Finacea helps reduce inflammation and the number of these lesions.
  • Pustules: Acne-like bumps containing pus. Azelaic acid helps reduce inflammatory activity associated with these lesions.
  • Inflammation-Related Redness: Finacea may reduce redness surrounding inflammatory bumps as the skin condition improves.
  • Skin Irritation: By controlling inflammation, the medication may help improve some symptoms of irritation associated with rosacea.
  • Recurring Breakouts: Regular treatment may help control inflammatory bumps and reduce the frequency of certain rosacea flare-ups.

Finacea does not cure rosacea because the condition often develops in recurring episodes.

However, consistent treatment may help control inflammatory lesions and improve the appearance of affected skin.

Finacea has not been established as an effective treatment for persistent facial redness when inflammatory bumps are absent.

Your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments if flushing, visible blood vessels, or persistent redness are your primary symptoms.

Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Azelaic acid is also used to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris, depending on the medication’s formulation and regional approval.

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that develops when hair follicles become blocked by excess oil, dead skin cells, and other substances.

The blocked follicles can become inflamed and may contribute to the growth of Cutibacterium acnes, a bacterium associated with acne.

This can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and pustules.

Azelaic acid helps treat acne through its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and keratinization-regulating effects.

It may help improve the following acne symptoms:

  • Papules: Small, red, inflamed bumps that develop when blocked hair follicles become irritated.
  • Pustules: Inflamed pimples containing pus.
  • Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores that appear as small white or skin-colored bumps.
  • Blackheads: Open, clogged pores that appear dark because material within the follicle reacts with air.
  • Skin Inflammation: Redness and swelling surrounding acne lesions.
  • Post-Acne Dark Marks: Azelaic acid may help improve certain types of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, although this benefit depends on the formulation and treatment plan.

Azelaic acid works by reducing the growth of acne-associated bacteria and helping skin cells shed more normally.

This reduces the buildup of dead skin cells that can contribute to clogged pores.

The medication may be particularly useful for people who experience both inflammatory acne and post-inflammatory dark marks.

However, Finacea 15% Gel is not specifically approved for acne in Canada or the United States. Its use for acne in those countries may be off-label, while the same formulation has an acne indication in certain other regions. 

How Does Finacea Work?

Finacea contains azelaic acid, a topical medication with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and keratinization-regulating effects.

Azelaic acid acts on several processes involved in inflammatory skin conditions.

These include inflammation, bacterial growth, and the buildup of dead skin cells within hair follicles.

Although the exact mechanism of action in rosacea is not completely understood, azelaic acid is believed to help reduce inflammatory responses in the skin.

Reduces Skin Inflammation

Inflammation plays an important role in the development of rosacea and inflammatory acne.

When the skin becomes inflamed, immune cells release substances that contribute to redness, swelling, and irritation.

Azelaic acid helps reduce certain inflammatory processes, including the activity of reactive oxygen species and inflammatory signalling pathways.

This may help calm inflamed skin and reduce the appearance of papules and pustules.

As inflammation decreases, affected areas may gradually become less red and irritated.

Controls Acne-Associated Bacteria

Azelaic acid has antibacterial activity against certain microorganisms found on the skin.

One of these bacteria is Cutibacterium acnes, which can contribute to inflammatory acne.

When hair follicles become blocked, conditions within the follicle may allow acne-associated bacteria to contribute to inflammation.

Azelaic acid helps limit bacterial activity, which may reduce the development of inflammatory acne lesions.

Unlike many antibiotics, azelaic acid is not generally associated with the same concerns about promoting bacterial resistance during acne treatment.

However, its antibacterial activity does not mean that Finacea can treat every type of bacterial skin infection.

Helps Prevent Clogged Pores

Acne can develop when dead skin cells do not shed normally from the lining of hair follicles.

These cells may accumulate and mix with skin oil, forming blockages that contribute to blackheads and whiteheads.

Azelaic acid helps normalize keratinization, the process by which skin cells mature and shed.

By reducing abnormal buildup of skin cells, azelaic acid may help prevent clogged pores and improve acne symptoms.

This effect is especially relevant when azelaic acid is used for acne vulgaris.

Helps Reduce Inflammatory Bumps

Papules and pustules develop when inflammatory activity affects the skin and hair follicles.

Azelaic acid helps reduce the processes that contribute to these lesions.

In rosacea, the medication may decrease the number of inflammatory bumps and improve the overall appearance of affected skin.

In acne, its combined antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions may help reduce pimples and prevent some new lesions.

Improvements usually occur gradually rather than immediately after application.

May Improve Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Azelaic acid can also affect melanin production, which determines skin pigmentation.

Inflammation from acne may trigger increased melanin production, leaving dark marks after pimples heal.

This condition is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Azelaic acid can inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in producing melanin.

This action may help gradually reduce the appearance of certain dark marks associated with acne.

However, improvement depends on the concentration of azelaic acid, the severity of pigmentation, and consistent treatment.

How Long Does Finacea Take to Work?

Finacea does not usually provide immediate results.

Some people with rosacea may notice improvements in inflammatory bumps within approximately four weeks of consistent treatment.

However, greater improvement may take eight to twelve weeks.

When azelaic acid is used to treat acne, noticeable results may also take several weeks.

The time needed for improvement depends on your skin condition, the severity of your symptoms, and how consistently you apply the medication.

Do not apply extra medication or increase the number of applications to obtain faster results.

If your symptoms do not improve after approximately 12 weeks of rosacea treatment, your healthcare provider should reassess your condition and treatment plan.

Important Information About Finacea

Finacea is intended for external use on the skin only.

For Finacea 15% Gel, the usual application schedule is twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, unless your healthcare provider recommends otherwise.

Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, and other sensitive areas.

Some people may experience temporary burning, stinging, itching, or dryness after application, particularly when beginning treatment.

Gentle skincare products and an appropriate moisturizer may help reduce irritation.

Avoid using harsh exfoliants, abrasive scrubs, or other irritating skincare products without consulting your healthcare provider.

Finacea helps control inflammatory bumps associated with rosacea by reducing inflammation in the skin. Azelaic acid is also used to treat acne vulgaris in appropriate formulations, where it helps reduce bacteria, inflammation, and clogged pores.

Finacea is a prescription topical medication used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, particularly mild to moderate rosacea. Azelaic acid is also used to treat acne vulgaris in certain formulations.

Finacea helps reduce skin inflammation, redness associated with inflammatory lesions, and acne-like bumps. Azelaic acid also has antibacterial properties and helps prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that can contribute to clogged pores.

Finacea is commonly available as a 15% gel or foam. Azelaic acid is also available as a 20% cream under other product names. Always check your medication’s exact formulation and strength before use.

For Finacea 15% Gel, the usual application schedule is twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, unless your healthcare provider recommends otherwise.

Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and use the medication consistently for the prescribed treatment period.

How to Apply Finacea Cream

Follow these general steps to apply topical azelaic acid safely and correctly:

  1. Wash your hands: Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water before applying the medication.
  2. Clean the affected skin: Gently wash the treatment area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps or abrasive scrubs that may irritate your skin.
  3. Dry your skin: Pat the affected area dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as this may worsen redness and irritation.
  4. Apply a small amount: Squeeze the recommended amount of medication onto your fingertip. Use only enough to cover the affected skin with a thin, even layer.
  5. Spread the medication gently: Apply the cream or gel to the affected area and gently massage it into your skin. Avoid excessive rubbing or pressure.
  6. Avoid sensitive areas: Keep the medication away from your eyes, inside your nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
  7. Follow your treatment schedule: Apply the medication twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Try to use it at approximately the same time each day.
  8. Allow the medication to absorb: Let the treated area dry before applying other skincare products or cosmetics.
  9. Wash your hands after application: Clean your hands thoroughly to prevent accidentally transferring the medication to your eyes or other sensitive areas.
  10. Continue treatment as directed: Use the medication consistently for the recommended period, even if your symptoms begin to improve.

How Much Finacea Should I Apply?

The amount of Finacea needed depends on the size of the affected area and the formulation you are using.

For Finacea 15% Gel, approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) of gel, equivalent to about 0.5 grams, is generally sufficient to cover the entire face.

You may need less medication if you are treating only a smaller area.

Apply a thin, even layer over the affected skin without leaving a thick coating.

Using excessive amounts will not make rosacea or acne improve faster. Instead, it may increase your risk of burning, stinging, dryness, and irritation.

Your healthcare provider may recommend adjusting the amount or frequency of application if your skin is particularly sensitive.

Important Tips When Using Finacea

Apply Finacea Twice Daily

Finacea 15% Gel is generally applied twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Regular use helps maintain the medication’s anti-inflammatory effects and supports gradual improvement in inflammatory skin lesions.

Try to establish a consistent skincare routine so you remember your applications.

If your skin becomes irritated, your healthcare provider may recommend temporarily reducing application frequency.

Do not apply the medication more frequently than prescribed.

Apply to Clean, Dry Skin

Before using Finacea, gently cleanse the affected skin to remove dirt, excess oil, and other skincare products.

Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that is suitable for sensitive skin.

Avoid scrubbing, exfoliating aggressively, or using very hot water, as these actions may worsen rosacea or skin irritation.

After cleansing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

Applying Finacea to clean, dry skin helps the medication spread evenly and may reduce unnecessary irritation.

Avoid Contact With Your Eyes, Nose, and Mouth

Finacea is intended for external use on the skin only.

Do not apply the medication inside your eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes.

Azelaic acid may cause burning, stinging, or irritation when it comes into contact with sensitive tissues.

If the medication accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of clean water.

If it enters your mouth or nose, rinse the affected area thoroughly.

Contact your healthcare provider if irritation continues after rinsing.

Wash your hands after applying Finacea to prevent accidental contact with sensitive areas.

Do Not Apply Excessive Amounts

Using more Finacea than recommended will not necessarily improve your skin condition faster.

Excessive application may increase the risk of redness, dryness, peeling, itching, burning, and stinging.

Use only enough medication to cover the affected area with a thin layer.

If you experience significant irritation, stop applying additional medication and contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Avoid Airtight Bandages and Dressings

Do not cover treated skin with airtight bandages, plastic wraps, or other occlusive dressings unless your healthcare provider specifically recommends them.

These coverings may increase local irritation or change how the medication interacts with your skin.

Allow the cream or gel to absorb naturally.

You may apply suitable cosmetics or skincare products after the medication has dried, provided they do not irritate your skin.

Use Gentle Skincare Products

People with rosacea and acne often have sensitive or easily irritated skin.

While using Finacea, avoid harsh skincare products that may increase dryness, burning, or redness.

Products that may cause irritation include alcohol-based toners, abrasive facial scrubs, strong exfoliating acids, and heavily fragranced cleansers.

Choose gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers and cleansers whenever possible.

If you use other medicated acne or rosacea treatments, ask your healthcare provider whether they can be safely combined with Finacea.

Protect Your Skin From Sun Exposure

Sunlight and heat are common triggers for rosacea flare-ups.

Although azelaic acid is not generally considered strongly photosensitizing, protecting your skin from sunlight can help reduce irritation and prevent worsening symptoms.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during the day.

Wear protective clothing and seek shade when outdoors for extended periods.

Avoid excessive heat exposure if it causes your rosacea symptoms to flare up.

What Should I Do If I Miss an Application?

If you forget to apply Finacea, use it when you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled application.

If your next application is approaching, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular treatment schedule.

Do not apply extra cream or gel to make up for a missed application.

Using excessive amounts may increase the risk of burning, stinging, dryness, and redness without improving treatment effectiveness.

If you frequently forget to apply Finacea, consider using a daily reminder or including it in your morning and evening skincare routine.

How Long Does Finacea Take to Work?

Finacea works gradually to reduce skin inflammation and improve inflammatory lesions associated with rosacea.

Some people may notice fewer inflammatory bumps and improvements in their skin within approximately four weeks of consistent treatment.

However, it may take eight to twelve weeks to experience more noticeable improvements.

The time needed for results depends on the severity of your condition, skin sensitivity, and response to treatment.

Continue applying Finacea according to your healthcare provider’s instructions, even if your symptoms do not improve immediately.

If your rosacea does not improve after 12 weeks of treatment, your healthcare provider should reassess your condition and determine whether a different treatment is necessary. 

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent burning, severe itching, increasing redness, swelling, or a worsening skin rash while using Finacea.

Mild stinging, tingling, or dryness may occur when treatment begins. However, severe or persistent irritation may mean that your skin is not tolerating the medication.

Stop using Finacea and seek emergency medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

If you have asthma and notice worsening breathing symptoms during treatment, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Always use Finacea according to the instructions for your specific formulation. Applying a thin layer to clean, dry skin, avoiding sensitive areas, and following a consistent treatment schedule can help improve inflammatory rosacea symptoms while reducing the risk of skin irritation.

Common Side Effects of Finacea Cream (Azelaic Acid):

  • Acne
  • Application site reactions (burning, stinging, tingling, dryness, tightness, scaling, itching, redness, irritation, and swelling)
  • Changes in taste
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Furry tongue
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain

Serious Side Effects of Finacea Cream (Azelaic Acid):

  • Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
  • Changes in skin color
  • Confusion
  • Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats
  • Feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors
  • Fluttering in your chest
  • Lightheadedness or passing out
  • Loss of coordination
  • Severe application site reactions
  • Severe headache
  • Shortness of breath
  • Slurred speech on arm or leg
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Sudden vision loss
  • Weakness trouble walking

Finacea Cream (Azelaic Acid) is available in the following forms and strength:

Azelaic Acid: Cream

  • 10%
  • 20%

Before using Finacea, tell your healthcare provider about any medical conditions, allergies, or other skincare medications you use.

Finacea is a prescription topical medication used to treat inflammatory papules and pustules associated with mild to moderate rosacea.

Finacea contains azelaic acid, which helps reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of inflammatory skin lesions. Azelaic acid is also used to treat acne vulgaris in certain formulations.

Although Finacea is generally well tolerated, some people may experience skin irritation, dryness, burning, or stinging, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment.

Certain medical conditions, including asthma and known allergies to the medication’s ingredients, may require additional precautions.

Product note: In Canada, Finacea is marketed as a 15% gel rather than a cream. The following precautions primarily apply to Finacea 15% Gel. Other azelaic acid formulations may have different ingredients and instructions. 

Sun Exposure and UV Protection

People with rosacea often have sensitive skin that reacts to sunlight, heat, and other environmental triggers.

Sun exposure may worsen facial redness, inflammation, and irritation, even when you are using medication to control your symptoms.

Although azelaic acid is not generally considered a medication that causes significant photosensitivity, protecting your skin from excessive sunlight is important during rosacea treatment.

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation may trigger rosacea flare-ups and make your skin more uncomfortable.

To protect your skin, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and seek shade when spending time outdoors.

Avoid tanning beds and excessive exposure to artificial UV light.

If your skin becomes unusually red, irritated, or uncomfortable after sun exposure, contact your healthcare provider.

You do not need to avoid all sunlight while using Finacea, but regular sun protection can help reduce rosacea symptoms and support your treatment.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using Finacea.

Azelaic acid is applied directly to the skin, and only a limited amount is typically absorbed into the bloodstream.

However, information about the use of Finacea during pregnancy is limited, so your healthcare provider should evaluate the potential benefits and risks of treatment.

Animal studies have not identified the same risks that would be expected from exposure to highly toxic amounts during normal topical use, but these findings do not establish complete safety in humans.

Your healthcare provider will consider your skin condition, the severity of your symptoms, and whether treatment is necessary during pregnancy.

If you are breastfeeding, tell your healthcare provider before starting Finacea.

It is not known exactly how much azelaic acid from topical treatment may enter breast milk. However, systemic absorption following skin application is generally low.

Avoid applying Finacea to your breasts or nipples while breastfeeding to prevent your baby from coming into direct contact with the medication.

Keep treated skin away from your baby’s skin until the medication has dried, and wash your hands after each application.

Your healthcare provider can determine whether Finacea is appropriate during pregnancy or breastfeeding and recommend alternatives when necessary. 

Allergic Reactions and Hypersensitivity

Do not use Finacea if you are allergic to azelaic acid or any other ingredient in the formulation.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergies, particularly allergic reactions to topical medications, skincare products, or propylene glycol.

Certain Finacea formulations contain propylene glycol, an ingredient that may cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

The ingredients can vary depending on the formulation, so always review the ingredient list supplied with your medication.

Possible symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

  • Skin Rash: Red, inflamed, or itchy patches may develop after application.
  • Hives: Raised, itchy bumps may appear on your skin.
  • Facial Swelling: Your eyelids, lips, or other facial areas may become swollen.
  • Severe Itching: Persistent itching may occur beyond the usual mild irritation associated with treatment.
  • Breathing Difficulties: Severe allergic reactions may cause wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing.

Mild stinging or burning after application does not always indicate an allergy. However, severe or worsening symptoms should not be ignored.

Stop using Finacea and contact your healthcare provider if you develop a persistent rash, unusual swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling of your tongue or throat. 

Skin Irritation and Sensitive Skin

Finacea may cause skin irritation, especially when you first begin treatment.

Azelaic acid works by reducing inflammation and affecting certain processes within the skin. However, some people may experience temporary discomfort as their skin adjusts to the medication.

Possible skin reactions include:

  • Burning or Stinging: A temporary burning or stinging sensation may develop after application.
  • Itching: The treated area may feel itchy or uncomfortable.
  • Dryness: Your skin may become dry, rough, or flaky.
  • Peeling: Mild peeling or scaling may occur.
  • Redness: Some people may notice increased redness or irritation.
  • Tingling: A mild tingling sensation may occur shortly after applying the medication.

These effects are often most noticeable during the first few weeks of treatment and may improve as your skin becomes accustomed to Finacea.

However, persistent or severe irritation may indicate that your skin is not tolerating the medication.

To reduce irritation, wash your face with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and avoid harsh exfoliating products.

Use a gentle moisturizer if recommended by your healthcare provider.

Do not apply more Finacea than prescribed, as excessive use may increase irritation without improving treatment results.

If you experience severe burning, significant redness, or persistent skin discomfort, stop using Finacea and contact your healthcare provider. 

Avoid Contact With the Eyes, Mouth, and Nose

Finacea is intended for external use on the skin only.

Do not apply the medication inside your eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes.

These areas contain sensitive tissues that may become irritated when exposed to azelaic acid.

If Finacea accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of clean water.

If the medication enters your mouth or nose, rinse the affected area thoroughly with water.

Contact your healthcare provider if irritation continues after rinsing.

Avoid applying Finacea to your lips, inside your nostrils, or directly around your eyes.

Wash your hands thoroughly after each application to reduce the risk of transferring the medication to sensitive areas.

Asthma and Breathing Problems

Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of asthma or other respiratory conditions before using Finacea.

Although Finacea is applied to the skin, worsening asthma symptoms have been reported in some people using azelaic acid formulations.

The exact reason for these reactions is not fully understood, and they do not occur in most people who use the medication.

However, people with existing asthma should be aware of possible breathing changes during treatment.

Symptoms of worsening asthma may include:

  • Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing during normal activities.
  • Chest Tightness: A feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest.
  • Persistent Coughing: Increased coughing, particularly at night.
  • Increased Use of Rescue Medication: Needing your prescribed reliever inhaler more frequently than usual.

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if your asthma symptoms become worse while using Finacea.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience severe breathing difficulties or symptoms that do not improve with your prescribed rescue treatment.

A history of asthma does not automatically mean that you cannot use Finacea, but your healthcare provider should be aware of your condition. 

Drug Interactions and Other Skincare Products

Before using Finacea, tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and skincare treatments you use.

Because Finacea is applied directly to the skin and has limited systemic absorption, significant interactions with medications taken by mouth are not expected to be common.

However, certain topical products may increase irritation when applied to the same area.

Products that may require additional caution include:

  • Topical Retinoids: Medications such as tretinoin and adapalene may increase dryness, peeling, or irritation when combined with azelaic acid.
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: This acne treatment may cause additional dryness or irritation when used alongside Finacea.
  • Exfoliating Acids: Products containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or other exfoliating ingredients may increase skin sensitivity.
  • Alcohol-Based Skincare Products: Toners and astringents containing alcohol may worsen dryness or burning.
  • Other Prescription Skin Treatments: Combining multiple medications on the same area may require an adjusted application schedule.

These combinations are not necessarily unsafe, but your healthcare provider may recommend introducing products gradually or using them at different times.

Formal drug interaction studies with Finacea Gel have not been conducted, so not every possible interaction is known.

Do not start or combine multiple medicated skincare products without checking whether they are appropriate for your skin condition.

Changes in Skin Pigmentation

Finacea may rarely cause changes in skin pigmentation.

Azelaic acid can affect melanin production, which helps determine your natural skin color.

In isolated cases, people using azelaic acid have experienced hypopigmentation, a condition in which areas of skin become lighter than the surrounding skin.

This effect is uncommon, but it is important to monitor for unusual color changes during treatment.

People with darker skin tones should be particularly aware of new light-colored patches because these changes may be more noticeable.

Tell your healthcare provider if you develop unexplained light spots, uneven skin color, or other persistent pigmentation changes.

Your healthcare provider may recommend evaluating the affected area and determining whether treatment should continue. 

Follow the Prescribed Dosage and Application Schedule

Finacea should be used exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.

For Finacea 15% Gel, the usual recommended application schedule is twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and gently spread the medication over the affected area.

Do not apply excessive amounts or use the medication more frequently than prescribed.

Using more Finacea will not make rosacea improve faster and may increase your risk of burning, itching, redness, and skin irritation.

If you experience persistent irritation, your healthcare provider may recommend adjusting how frequently you apply the medication.

Do not cover the treated area with airtight bandages or plastic wraps unless specifically instructed.

Consistent use is important because improvements in inflammatory rosacea symptoms usually develop gradually over several weeks.

If your condition does not improve after approximately 12 weeks, your healthcare provider should reassess your treatment.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent burning, severe itching, increased redness, unusual skin discoloration, or worsening rosacea symptoms while using Finacea.

You should also report any new skin reactions, particularly if you have a history of allergies or sensitive skin.

Stop using Finacea and seek prompt medical advice if you develop significant swelling, a worsening rash, or symptoms suggesting an allergic reaction.

If you have asthma, contact your healthcare provider if you notice increased wheezing, coughing, or breathing discomfort during treatment.

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience severe difficulty breathing, swelling of your tongue or throat, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Finacea helps control inflammatory rosacea symptoms, but careful application and appropriate skincare are important for safe treatment. Following your prescribed schedule, avoiding irritating products, protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure, and reporting unusual reactions can help reduce side effects.

Can I Use Finacea Cream if I Have Sensitive Skin?

Yes, Finacea may be suitable for people with sensitive skin, but it should be used carefully because it can cause temporary irritation. Finacea contains azelaic acid, a topical medication that helps reduce inflammation and improve inflammatory bumps associated with rosacea. Azelaic acid is also used to treat acne in certain formulations. People with sensitive skin may experience burning, stinging, itching, redness, dryness, or mild peeling after applying the medication. These reactions are often more noticeable during the first few weeks of treatment and may gradually improve as your skin adjusts. If your skin is easily irritated, your healthcare provider may recommend starting with a lower application frequency before gradually increasing to the prescribed schedule. Using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and moisturizer may help reduce dryness and discomfort. Avoid harsh facial scrubs, alcohol-based toners, strong exfoliating acids, and other skincare products that may worsen irritation. Apply only a thin layer of Finacea to clean, dry skin. Do not use more medication than prescribed, as excessive application may increase irritation without improving treatment results. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop persistent burning, severe redness, swelling, or a worsening rash. If you have a history of allergic reactions to azelaic acid or other ingredients in the formulation, discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Is Finacea Cream Available Over the Counter?

Finacea is generally available by prescription in Canada and the United States. Finacea contains azelaic acid and is commonly marketed as a 15% gel or foam, depending on the country. It is primarily prescribed to treat inflammatory papules and pustules associated with mild to moderate rosacea. A prescription allows your healthcare provider to determine whether Finacea is appropriate for your skin condition and recommend the correct application schedule. Although Finacea itself is a prescription medication in these countries, some over-the-counter skincare products contain lower concentrations of azelaic acid. These products may be marketed for acne-prone skin, uneven skin tone, or redness. However, they are not necessarily equivalent to prescription Finacea in strength, formulation, or approved use. Do not replace prescribed Finacea with an over-the-counter azelaic acid product without consulting your healthcare provider. Different concentrations and formulations may produce different treatment results.

Can Finacea Cream Be Used for Acne? 

Yes, azelaic acid, the active ingredient in Finacea, can help treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris. However, whether Finacea is specifically approved for acne depends on the product formulation and country. Azelaic acid has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-cell-regulating properties that help reduce acne breakouts. Acne develops when excess oil and dead skin cells block hair follicles. These blocked pores may become inflamed, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and pustules. Azelaic acid helps control acne by reducing the activity of Cutibacterium acnes, a bacterium associated with inflammatory acne. It also helps normalize the shedding of dead skin cells, which may reduce clogged pores. The medication may help improve inflamed pimples, redness associated with acne lesions, and certain dark marks left behind after breakouts. In the United Kingdom, Finacea 15% Gel is approved for mild to moderate papulopustular acne and rosacea. In Canada and the United States, Finacea 15% Gel is approved for rosacea, while its use for acne may be considered off-label. Acne improvement generally develops gradually over several weeks. Your healthcare provider will determine whether Finacea or another azelaic acid product is appropriate for your skin condition.

How Should I Store Finacea Cream?

Finacea should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture. For Finacea 15% Gel, the Canadian product information recommends storage between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Storage instructions may differ for other azelaic acid formulations. Keep the medication in its original tube with the cap tightly closed when not in use. This helps protect the product from contamination and prevents it from drying out. Avoid leaving Finacea in direct sunlight, inside a hot vehicle, or near heaters and other sources of excessive heat. Store the medication in a cool, dry location, such as a bedroom cabinet or medicine cupboard. Avoid locations where temperature and humidity change frequently. Do not freeze Finacea unless the manufacturer specifically instructs otherwise. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental exposure or ingestion. Check the expiration date before using Finacea, and do not apply medication that has expired or shows unusual changes in appearance, texture, or smell. If you are unsure whether Finacea has been stored correctly, ask your pharmacist for advice. Proper storage helps maintain the quality and effectiveness of Finacea throughout the recommended treatment period.

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Additional Information Book
Generic name:

Azelaic Acid

Formulation:

Cream

Strength(s):

10%, 20%

Quantities Available:

30g, 90g

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How to Order

How much Finacea Cream can I order at once from a Canadian pharmacy?

When ordering Finacea Cream (azelaic acid) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time, which is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of chronic conditions without frequent refills.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dosage and Quantity: Finacea Cream is commonly applied as a thin layer to the affected area twice daily. For a 90-day supply, considering the usual quantity used per application and the frequency:

Assuming approximately 1 gram of cream is used per application (which is a typical estimate for a thin layer), and applying it twice daily, you will order 180 grams of cream (90 days x 2 applications per day x 1 gram per application).

Do you sell azelaic acid?

Yes, we sell azelaic acid on our website. You can enjoy low prices when you order through us. To purchase azelaic acid, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. We require this prescription to dispense the medication safely and appropriately. You can submit your prescription by mailing it to us, faxing it, or uploading it through your online account.

Do you offer shipping of Finacea Cream (azelaic acid) to the United States?

Yes, we ship Finacea Cream (azelaic acid) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.

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Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Finacea Cream (Azelaic Acid). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Finacea Cream (Azelaic Acid).