The benefits of exfoliation are never understated in skincare. You probably know by now that a regular exfoliation routine will help turn over dead, dry skin cells, get your skin glowing, and prevent acne and dark spots. Exfoliation, along with regular use of effective products like vitamin C serums, sunscreen, and retinol, is a key component to healthier-looking skin. But too much of a good thing IS a thing when it comes to exfoliation. And, depending on your skin type and concerns, you could be exfoliating with products that are causing more harm than good to your complexion.
Enter: mandelic acid.
This little-known skincare ingredient is fast become a trendsetter precisely because it crushes exfoliation goals without compromising the skin barrier the way some other methods might. Dr. Naheed Ali, MD, PhD, a physician-writer at Healthcare Propulsion, lets us in on the benefits of mandelic acid and how to incorporate this ingredient into your routine.
What is mandelic acid?
Mandelic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is derived from bitter almonds, Dr. Ali explains. “It is widely used in skincare products for its exfoliating and skin-renewing properties,” he says.
And its unique benefits for skin types that get dry and irritated at the mere suggestion of AHA’s?
“Mandelic acid has a larger molecular size compared to other AHAs, such as glycolic acid, which makes it a milder option for individuals with sensitive skin,” Dr. Ali confirms.
What are mandelic acid’s biggest benefits?
One of the key benefits of mandelic acid is its ability to gently exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their shedding, Dr. Ali. says. “This process helps to unclog pores, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. Mandelic acid is also known for its antibacterial properties, making it an effective treatment for acne-prone skin by reducing bacteria and inflammation.”
Added benefit: mandelic acid may help with dark spots
Additionally, mandelic acid has been found to be effective in addressing skin concerns related to hyperpigmentation, which means it may be able to help lighten dark spots. “It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone,” Dr. Ali says. “By regulating melanin synthesis, mandelic acid can help fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and provide a brighter complexion.”
But one important thing to note when choosing mandelic acid over other chemical exfoliants: as mentioned, it is gentle. It is a fantastic gentle exfoliating alternative to glycolic acid, for example, or even lactic acid. But that also means you may need to be patient — results will be subtler and can take more time to show themselves.
Products To Try
The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA, $7.50
You can always count on The Ordinary to deliver trend-setting ingredients without fancy fillers. This serum contain 10% mandelic acid with the added benefit of hydrating hyaluronic acid to further reduce the possibility of dryness and irritation. The vegan formula is described as lightweight and especially effective in reducing acne and discoloration. One reviewer raved, “I’ve been using this product since last week, i can see major differences on the little pimples i have on my face that are hormonal. This product is a perfect way to control it.”
Use this serum once daily, at night, and be sure to follow up in the morning with sunscreen.
The INKEY List Mandelic Acid Treatment, $11.99
This serum combined the effectiveness of three ingredients to help combat acne and discoloration from acne: 10% mandelic acid, hydrating glycerin, and 0.1% retinol, a gold-standard ingredient in skincare. Apply a small amount to clean skin at night and follow up with a moisturizer (and SPF the following morning). A number of reviewers shared before and after photos of their skin to prove that it works wonders (though many reiterate the need to be patient and consistent with your routine).
One reviewer raved: “Okay so i bought this after some really bad cystic acne cleared up because the scarring was Really bad. I was skeptical that this would work BUT after a couple months of using (I first bought it back in april) my scars have almost completely faded. I’d definitely recommend this!”
Ready to embrace a gentler exfoliation option? Find a mandelic acid serum that works for your budget and give it a try for yourself.
