What Is Dipotassium Azelate?
Dipotassium Azelate, also called dipotassium nonanedioate, is the dipotassium salt of azelaic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains like wheat, rye and barley. Converting azelaic acid into its dipotassium form makes it water soluble and easier to add to modern skin care formulas. The ingredient first appeared in cosmetic labs in the late 1990s when chemists searched for gentler ways to adjust product texture without heavy oils. It is produced by neutralizing azelaic acid with potassium hydroxide, then purifying and drying the resulting salt into a fine white powder. Thanks to its compatibility with water based systems, Dipotassium Azelate shows up in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating gels, oil free lotions, masks and various leave-on treatments that aim for a smooth, non greasy feel.
Dipotassium Azelate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas Dipotassium Azelate acts as a viscosity controlling agent, meaning it helps set the thickness of a product so that it spreads easily, feels pleasant on the skin and remains stable over time. By fine-tuning texture it supports an even application and can prevent products from feeling runny or overly heavy, which enhances the overall user experience.
Who Can Use Dipotassium Azelate
This gentle, water-soluble salt suits nearly every skin type including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skins because it does not clog pores or leave an oily residue. Very dry or compromised skin can also use it, though those users may wish to pair it with richer emollients for added comfort. Dipotassium Azelate is produced from plant-derived azelaic acid and mineral potassium hydroxide without animal derivatives, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. There is no evidence that the ingredient poses a risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding when applied topically in cosmetic amounts, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional. Dipotassium Azelate does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn, though daily sunscreen is still advisable with any skincare routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dipotassium Azelate differ from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient has been formulated and used correctly.
- Mild stinging or burning, most often on very sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
- Temporary redness or warmth at the application site
- Itchiness or tightness, particularly in extremely dry areas
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as persistent rash or swelling
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally drifts too close to the lash line
If any of these reactions occur and persist discontinue use and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5. Dipotassium Azelate is a water-soluble salt that does not leave an occlusive film on the skin so it is highly unlikely to lodge in pores or mix with excess sebum in a way that encourages breakouts. Because it stays dissolved in the water phase of a formula it rinses or wears off cleanly without forming residue. This makes it suitable for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin. Unless combined with heavier oils in the same product its presence should not influence comedogenicity.
Summary
Dipotassium Azelate’s main job in cosmetics is to control viscosity, giving lotions gels and masks a smooth consistent texture that spreads evenly and feels light. It achieves this by interacting with water and other ingredients to fine-tune thickness while staying completely soluble so formulas remain stable over time.
The ingredient is still something of a niche choice compared with well-known thickeners like carbomers or xanthan gum, but formulators who want a gentle oil-free alternative appreciate its compatibility with modern lightweight products.
Overall safety is excellent: it is non-comedogenic, vegan friendly and not linked to hormonal or photo-sensitizing concerns. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to perform a small patch test when trying a product that contains Dipotassium Azelate to confirm personal tolerance.