Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds and is widely used in skincare due to its range of benefits. Some of its main uses include:
1. Exfoliation
Mandelic acid helps in gently exfoliating the skin by removing dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover, and revealing smoother, brighter skin. It’s often used for people with sensitive skin since it’s gentler compared to other AHAs like glycolic acid.
2. Acne Treatment
Due to its antibacterial properties, mandelic acid can help reduce acne by killing acne-causing bacteria, unclogging pores, and reducing the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.
3. Hyperpigmentation
Mandelic acid is effective in treating hyperpigmentation issues such as dark spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentation by inhibiting melanin production, resulting in more even skin tone.
4. Anti-Aging
It stimulates collagen production, which helps in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Over time, regular use can improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
5. Brightening
Mandelic acid helps in achieving a brighter complexion by reducing dullness and enhancing skin radiance. Its mild exfoliation encourages a fresher, more luminous look.
6. Skin Texture Improvement
With consistent use, mandelic acid can improve skin texture by making it feel softer, smoother, and more refined.
7. Treating Oily Skin
It regulates sebum production, making it a suitable option for those with oily or combination skin.
8. Prepping the Skin
Mandelic acid is sometimes used as a pre-peel treatment or in professional chemical peels because of its ability to prep the skin for deeper exfoliation without causing irritation.
9. Reduction of Enlarged Pores
By exfoliating and clearing out impurities from pores, mandelic acid can help minimize the appearance of large pores over time.
Its gentle nature makes it an ideal choice for beginners to chemical exfoliants and those with sensitive skin who want to avoid the irritation sometimes caused by stronger acids.