Of all the chemical exfoliants, mandelic acid is definitely one of the least known. You may already be familiar with glycolic acid And azelaic acidwhich are found in many skincare products and are popular among influencers on TikTok, but mandelic acid is now becoming an increasingly popular It ingredient.
Similar to other chemical exfoliants, mandelic acid helps remove dead skin cells, smooth skin texture, treat breakouts, and brighten skin. However, mandelic acid has several key characteristics that set it apart from others.
According to Sophie Pavittcosmetologist and founder Sophie Pavitt's facemandelic acid is suitable for both. sensitive skin And melanated skin. Pavitt is a big fan of using mandelic acid in skin care, as the ingredient is in her cult-favorite product. Mandelic Acid Exfoliating & Cleansing Serum.
“Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA),” explains Pavitt. “AHAs promote the skin's natural exfoliation process by working at the surface of the skin. Mandelic acid has a larger molecular size, which allows it to penetrate more slowly and therefore may cause less irritation than other exfoliating acids. I like it for all skin tones. It minimizes the risk of hyperpigmentation on darker skin tones, unlike others AHA acids.”
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Hyper Skin Gentle Brightening Gel with Mandelic Acid
What does mandelic acid do?
Like other exfoliating acids, mandelic acid gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin and the healthy skin underneath. “Gently removing dead cells leaves skin smoother, brighter, and clearer,” says Pavitt. “Some people may experience minor irritation, but almond extract is a gentler exfoliant and most people tolerate it very well. I like to advise clients to start slowly, adding it every other day, gradually working their way up to daily use as their only daily exfoliator.”
How to use mandelic acid in skin care?
Like most chemical exfoliants, you should gradually introduce it into your daily routine. “We recommend starting once a day to see how your skin reacts,” says Pavitt. “We recommend a cleanse, condition and moisturize routine, so mandelic acid will be your second step after cleansing. After about two weeks, move to daily use, alternating your daily routine with the other actives.”
“If you use other actives, you should alternate them with mandelica in your daily routine to avoid overdoing it,” says Pavitt.
