The AHA acids belong to a group that is gentler on the skin compared to glycolic acid, and can help with acne, blemished skin, hyperpigmentation, and aging. Join us if you want to learn more about mandelic acid and its effects on the skin.
What is mandelic acid?
It is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs have beneficial effects on the skin because they loosen the connections between cells, allowing for the natural shedding of cells, resulting in fresher, smoother, and more even skin.
All AHAs have exfoliating properties, which trigger the aforementioned process, causing dead skin cells to shed from the skin's surface (additionally, it increases photosensitivity, so the use of sunscreen is an essential part of any AHA treatment). It is often combined with other active ingredients, and may also be included in creams and various products, as it is a super ingredient with a super effect on the skin.What makes mandelic acid truly unique is its molecular structure. It acts more gently on the skin, as its molecular weight is higher (152.1 daltons) than that of glycolic acid (another type of AHA, which has a molecular size of 76 daltons), and as a result, it penetrates the skin more slowly. Therefore, we confidently recommend it even for sensitive skin.
What does mandelic acid do?
So what are the benefits of mandelic acid for the skin? Here are some of these benefits:
Exfoliates: Mandelic acid is a chemical exfoliant that interacts with the skin (instead of physical exfoliation with a scrub), removing dead skin cells, but there are also those that not only dissolve dead skin.
Enhances cellular oxygen function: Mandelic acid enhances the oxygen function of cells by releasing dead skin cells adhered to the skin's surface, reducing the appearance of skin damage or acne, preventing the skin from becoming clogged, and improving skin respiration, which, if not functioning properly, can cause numerous problems.
Reduces hyperpigmentation: The acid reduces the appearance of dark spots, especially post-acne marks and sun damage.
Antibacterial: A perfect choice against acne, as its antibacterial properties improve the condition of acne-prone skin by acting on the bacteria responsible for acne formation.
How to use mandelic acid?
So what should users of mandelic acid pay attention to? In other words, how should mandelic acid be used? If you have sensitive skin, avoid using retinol at least two days before exfoliation.It is not recommended to undergo any exfoliating treatment, performed by a doctor or cosmetologist, at least 2 weeks before using mandelic acid. Additionally, it is strongly advised to avoid using mandelic acid if your skin's protective barrier is damaged, and you feel burning, stinging, or tightness. It can be combined with many super ingredients. The use of sunscreen is mandatory; if you spend a lot of time outdoors, your skin is exposed to sunlight, or summer is approaching and you cannot pay proper attention to regular sun protection, it is better to avoid it for a while.
Can I use it every day?
Mandelic acid should be applied as part of your nighttime skincare routine after cleansing the skin. Even though it is gentler, it is not recommended for daily use; instead, use it 2-3 times a week after your skin has adjusted.