- It’s an organic compound with a similar structure to azelaic acid
- The skin benefits of dioic acid include brightening, fading discoloration, balancing excess sebum, and reducing acne bacteria
- It is well tolerable by all skin types.
- Can be paired with other skin brighteners and acne fighters like vitamin C and salicylic acid for increased benefits.
Lately, we’ve seen dioic acid popping up in a plethora of products addressing uneven skin tone and dark spots. This is no surprise given that it’s being touted by researchers as a gentler and effective alternative to hydroquinone and azelaic acid — the pillars of brightening treatments. It turns out this acid possesses some serious perks that help promote a more even-looking complexion, which brings us to the next question. What is dioic acid in skincare, and how does it brighten the skin?
What is dioic acid?
Dioic acid (also known as octadecenedioic acid) is a monounsaturated carboxylic acid obtained from the biofermentation of oleic acid, having a very similar molecular structure to azelaic acid.
How does dioic acid work in skincare?
Dioic acid is often used in skincare as a brightening and depigmenting agent because it hinders the accumulation of pigment on the skin’s surface. More precisely, dioic acid interferes with the production of pigment-producing enzymes (tyrosinase) as well as regulates the transfer of melanin across skin cells.[1] This not only helps support an even tone but also minimizes dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and other forms of blemishes.
How effective is dioic acid for skin brightening?
As to how effective dioic acid is for improving hyperpigmentation and uneven tone, research shows at least promising. In a clinical study on 71 Indian women, a cream containing 1% dioic acid delivered a significant skin-lightening effect after 12 weeks.[2]
Another study found that a 1% dioic acid cream applied twice daily is as effective as 2% hydroquinone for treating melasma but with fewer side effects.[3] This means dioic acid is an excellent alternative for people who can’t tolerate hydroquinone. The same goes when comparing dioic acid with azelaic acid. While both have potent brightening benefits, dioic acid acts more gently, being more tolerated by those with problematic skin.
Dioic acid for acne
But the role of dioic acid in skincare doesn’t limit to its skin whitening power. In fact, it appears that dioic acid also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, and according to some studies, it can regulate sebum production and reduce acne.
When compared on a molecular basis, dioic acid seems to be 50-fold more active than azelaic acid at targeting acne-causing bacteria.[4] For the record, one study found that 10% dioic acid can reduce breakouts as much as 5% benzoyl peroxide but without adverse irritation such as scaling and burning, often caused by benzoyl peroxide.
Takeaway
To end, dioic acid in skincare is a big YES and is definitely a worthy ingredient for anyone looking to brighten their skin and fade hyperpigmentation. It also works to fight acne and rosacea by eliminating excess oil and bacteria. For the best dioic acid products, we count SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum, Allies of Skin Multi-Nutrient & Dioic Renewing Cream, and Medik8 Blemish SOS.
References
Women’s Concepts uses reliable sources, including dermatologists’ insights, clinical trials, and scientific journals, to find accurate information and support all the facts shared in our articles. All statements and claims have clear and legit references. Read our editorial policy to learn more about our sources of information, our process of researching and fact-checking the content, and how our team strives to keep all articles updated, completed, and trustworthy.
- Wiechers JW, Rawlings AV, Garcia C, Chesné C, Balaguer P, Nicolas JC, Corre S, Galibert MD. A new mechanism of action for skin whitening agents: binding to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2005 Apr;27(2):123-32. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-2494.2004.00256.x.
- Merinville, E., Byrne, A.J., Visdal-Johnsen, L., Bouvry, G., Gillbro, J.M., Rawlings, A.V. and Laloeuf, A. (2012), Clinical evaluation of a dioic acid-based formulation on facial skin in an Indian population. Int J Cosmet Sci, 34: 575-581. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12002
- Tirado-Sánchez A, Santamaría-Román A, Ponce-Olivera RM. Efficacy of dioic acid compared with hydroquinone in the treatment of melasma. Int J Dermatol. 2009 Aug.
- Pathogenesis and Treatment of Acne and Rosacea, Christos C. Zouboulis, Andreas D. Katsambas, Albert M. Kligman.
