Yes — 15% is a high-strength azelaic acid concentration and sits at the upper end of what many people look for when they want something more serious than the typical 10% formulas.

That makes ZÉRA especially relevant for people who feel like lower-strength azelaic products haven’t done enough for their breakouts, lingering red marks, uneven tone, or redness.

Because 15% is a stronger concentration, we recommend introducing it gradually if your skin is sensitive or you already use other actives.

Some people notice temporary changes when introducing a new active, but not every new breakout should automatically be written off as “purging.” If your skin becomes increasingly irritated, itchy, swollen, or uncomfortable, reduce how often you use it or stop and reassess. Starting slowly can make it easier to see how your skin actually responds.

ZÉRA was made with exactly that overlap in mind. Alongside 10% Pure Azelaic Acid, the formula contains Niacinamide, Beta-Glucan and other skin-conditioning ingredients. If your skin is very reactive, introduce it gradually rather than going straight into twice-daily use.

Azelaic acid is commonly used in routines that also contain retinoids, but that doesn’t mean you need to layer everything together immediately. If you already use tretinoin or retinol, a simple approach is to use ZÉRA at a different time of day or alternate until you know your skin tolerates both.

Azelaic acid is more of a consistency ingredient than an overnight fix. Some people notice their skin looking calmer or smoother earlier, while stubborn post-breakout marks and uneven tone can take considerably longer to change. Give it several weeks of consistent use before deciding whether it is doing anything for you.

That is one of the main reasons people reach for azelaic acid. ZÉRA is designed to help improve the appearance of lingering red or dark post-breakout marks, visible redness and uneven-looking tone over time. It will not erase true indented or raised acne scars.