August 2023 Archive – Azelaic Acid Environmental Impact
If you’re scrolling through our August posts, the headline is clear: azelaic acid isn’t as green as it seems. This archive gives you a quick look at why that matters and what you can do while still loving your skin.
How Azelaic Acid Is Produced
The ingredient most people recognize from acne gels or brightening serums actually starts its life in the lab, not the garden. Manufacturers usually take oleic acid – a fatty acid that comes from palm oil – and run it through a chemical process to create azelaic acid. Palm oil production is linked to huge deforestation in Southeast Asia, which means more carbon emissions and loss of wildlife habitats.
Because the raw material comes from an industry known for clearing rainforests, every bottle of azelaic‑based product carries that hidden environmental cost. Some brands claim they use “sustainably sourced” palm oil, but verification is spotty at best. The chemistry itself isn’t dirty – it’s the feedstock that drags the whole thing down.
What You Can Do As a Skincare Fan
You don’t have to dump azelaic acid from your routine, but you can push for greener options. Look for products that mention “bio‑derived” or “green chemistry.” Those formulas often start with plant‑based sources like wheat germ or even microorganisms that produce the acid without palm oil.
Another practical tip: support brands that publish transparent supply chain data. When a company openly shares where their oleic acid comes from, you can verify certifications like RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil). If they don’t, it’s okay to ask or simply choose an alternative ingredient with a cleaner footprint.
Finally, keep an eye on research. Scientists are testing new pathways – such as using algae or waste oils – that could make azelaic acid truly sustainable within the next few years. Staying informed means you can switch when those greener formulas hit the shelves.
This August archive entry isn’t just a news bite; it’s a call to be mindful about where your skincare ingredients originate. By choosing responsibly sourced products and staying curious, you help drive the market toward cleaner production while still enjoying clear, glowing skin.
