KLK5 and rosacea: 62,63 The efficacy of azelaic acid is due to its ability to suppress KLK5 and cathelicidin production, which are part of a major inflammatory pathway contributing to rosacea pathogenesis.64 Topical minocycline 1.5% foam was comparable to azelaic acid 15% cream, and is believed to owe its efficacy in treating rosacea to its anti-inflammatory properties.6