Finacea Gel

What is Finacea?

Finacea 15% gel is a topical agent that kills bacteria associated with causing rosacea, an inflammatory condition that causes symptoms including facial rash, spots, flushing, and bloodshot eyes.

Finacea gel contains azelaic acid, which inhibits the growth of keratinocytes (cells found on the skin) and kills bacteria on the surface of the skin.

Azelaic acid is also referred to as a chemical exfoliant, although it is gentler on the skin than other medications in this class.

While Azelaic acid is found in several over-the-counter treatments for acne and rosacea, Finacea 15% gel is not available over the counter.

However, you can order Finacea 15% gel online from Prescription Doctor following an online consultation with one of our doctors.

How long does Finacea (azelaic acid) 15% gel take to work?

You may notice a difference in your symptoms after just 4 weeks of treatment with Finacea. If no improvement is seen after a month of correct usage (as prescribed), contact your doctor.

Some people may find that Finacea does not help their acne, and may require an alternative treatment such as Soolantra.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition characterised by redness and inflammation in various areas of the face, including the cheeks and nose. The rash may irritate, resulting in a stinging or burning sensation.

According to the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), rosacea is more commonly found in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. Women are more prone to rosacea than men, although the symptoms may appear more severe in men with the condition.

Moreover, rosacea affects people differently, depending on the specific type of rosacea. Some people may experience a rash on the cheeks, while others may experience acne-like breakouts on the chin. There are 4 main types of rosacea:

• Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is characterised by flushing, redness of the skin and blood vessels becoming visible.
• Papulopustular rosacea causes breakouts similar to acne. Skin often appears red and swollen.
• Phymatous rosacea thickens the skin, causing it to have a bumpy texture.
• Ocular rosacea affects the skin around the eyes. Eyelids appear swollen and may cause a sty-like lump. Eyes can also be red and irritated.

What causes Rosacea?

Various factors can trigger rosacea flare-ups. Once a trigger is identified, it can be avoided to prevent future rosacea flare-ups.

Some triggers of rosacea may include:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Cheese
• Hot drinks
• Intense exercise
• Spicy foods
• Stress
• Changes in the weather

The NHS states that rosacea is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene. However, some cleansing products may exacerbate your condition.

Untreated rosacea can become severe, leading to complications such as eye infections (conjunctivitis) and nasal disfigurement (rhinophyma).

Regardless of how rosacea affects you, it is essential to consult your doctor about your condition and discuss potential causes of flare-ups and available treatment options. There are several treatments available for rosacea, allowing you to find the one that works best for you.

Can rosacea be cured?

While there is no cure for rosacea, several treatments have been proven to reduce its symptoms, such as Finacea 15% gel.

There may also be lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of flare-ups, such as:

• switching skincare products to the ones designed for sensitive skin
• avoiding make-up
• adjusting your diet to consume fewer foods which might trigger your rosacea.

How does Finacea 15% gel work for rosacea?

Azelaic acid, the active ingredient of Finacea, works in two ways to combat rosacea. It is more specifically effective against the papulopustular type of rosacea.

Firstly, azelaic acid inhibits the growth of keratinocytes on the skin's surface. These cells often block pores and contribute to the development of papules and pustules (spots) on the surface of the skin.

Azelaic acid also functions as an antibiotic, killing bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes. This bacterium feeds on sebum in the pores of the skin and excretes chemicals which cause inflammation and reddening of the surrounding tissues.

Finacea is a long-term treatment and should be taken regularly. Your doctor will advise you on how long you should take Finacea.

How do I use Finacea?

For the treatment of rosacea, Finacea should be applied to the affected area twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. For best results, use the treatment at the same time each day.

1. Before applying Finacea, thoroughly wash the area of application with warm water and a mild soap.
2. Pat the area dry before applying Finacea gel.
3. Apply a pea-sized amount of Finacea gel (approximately 1/2 inch) to the face and gently massage it into the affected area. Avoid contact with your eyes.

Always wash your hands after using Finacea 15% gel.

It’s important to use Finacea as prescribed by your doctor.

What should I do if I forget to use Finacea when I should?

If you forget to use Finacea when you should, use it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled application. In that case, skip the missed dose and use Finacea again at the usual time. Do not use more Finacea to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I use more Finacea than I should?

If you accidentally apply too much Finacea gel, wipe away any excess with a clean tissue and discard it safely. Using more Finacea 15% gel than you should will not clear your rosacea faster, but may increase your risk of side effects.

Finacea side effects and cautions

All medications carry the risk of side effects, but not everyone will experience them. You should always be aware of the side effects or cautions associated with any medication you take.

The full list of side effects and cautions of using Finacea, as well as the full list of its ingredients, can be found in the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine.

View the Patient Information Leaflet for Finacea 15% Gel Online (PDF)

Very common side effects of Finacea include:

• Burning
• Pain
• Itching

Common side effects of using Finacea include:

• Irritation at the site of application
• Numbness at the site of application
• Dry skin at the site of application
• Rash

Rare side effects of using Finacea include:

• Skin reaction
• Scaling of the skin
• Skin discolouration
• Swelling

Allergic reaction

Do not use Finacea if you are allergic to azelaic acid or any of the other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Chest tightening
• Dry, red and cracked skin
• Itchy, red, watery eyes
• Raised, itchy, red rash (hives)
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes or face
• Tummy pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Wheezing

What should I do if I accidentally get Finacea 15% gel in my eyes?

If you get some Finacea gel in your eyes, rinse your eyes with water. If you experience prolonged irritation after rinsing the product out of your eyes, seek immediate medical attention.

Other safety information

Always read the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine before you start using Finacea.

Please inform our prescriber of all medications you are currently taking, including those prescribed by your doctor, bought over the counter from a pharmacy, as well as herbal and vitamin supplements.

Do not use Finacea 15% gel past the expiry date printed on the packaging. The date refers to the last day of the month.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Take any unwanted or expired medication to your local pharmacy and ask them to dispose of it safely on your behalf.

Always store Finacea out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Never share your medicine with anybody else, even if they are experiencing the same symptoms as you or have been diagnosed with the same condition as you.

Frequently asked questions