Rosacea treatment Finacea
What is Finacea?
Finacea is a prescription-only topical gel designed for treating skin conditions such as rosacea and acne. Formulated with the active ingredient azelaic acid 15%, Finacea is commonly recognised as a gel, although sometimes referred to as Finacea cream. This medication is effective in addressing mild to moderate papulopustular acne and can also be used for the treatment of papulopustular rosacea. These conditions are characterised by inflamed pustules and papules, with papules being small, red, and tender bumps, and pustules featuring a white tip due to pus accumulation.
What is Finacea used to treat?
Finacea is prescribed for the treatment of acne and papulopustular rosacea. With azelaic acid as its active ingredient, Finacea combats acne by eliminating the bacteria responsible for skin spots and reduces the production of keratin, a natural substance that can contribute to acne development. Acting as an anti-inflammatory, Finacea effectively reduces the associated swelling and redness.
Who can and cannot use Finacea?
Finacea may not be suitable for everyone as certain medical conditions or medications could interfere with its effectiveness or pose potential risks. Prior to using Finacea for the first time, consult your doctor if you take other medications or have any underlying medical conditions.
Do not use Finacea gel if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, especially azelaic acid.
If you are, or may be pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using Finacea.
Medications and Interactions: Limited evidence is available regarding medication interactions with Finacea. It is recommended to avoid using other treatments or medications on your face simultaneously with Finacea gel.
How long can I safely use Finacea?
You can use Finacea gel safely for several months at a time, as long as your skin is improving. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after 1 month of treatment, your doctor may tell you to stop using Finacea and offer an alternative treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Finacea gel may result in side effects, mainly on the applied skin area. Initial use might cause mild to moderate irritation, which should reduce over the treatment course. In rare cases of severe allergic reactions, such as eye swelling, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling, seek immediate medical attention at A&E or by calling 999.
Common side effects:
pain, itching, or burning at the application site
dry skin, rash, numbness, or tingling in the face
Uncommon side effects:
abnormal redness, contact dermatitis
warmth, scaly skin, or discoloration at the application site
Rare side effects:
hives, skin irritation
worsening of asthma symptoms.
Always read the patient information leaflet before taking any medication. The patient information leaflet for Finacea 15% gel can be found here.
Finacea doesn’t have any special storage instructions but the usual precautions should be taken such as keeping out of sight and reach of children.
Finacea is a gel containing azelaic acid 15% that comes in 35g tubes.