Mandelic acid in skin care products: A gentle but effective active ingredient

February 2024
The Derma Check AI

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Mandelic acid in skin care

  • Type of ingredient: Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
  • Main benefits: Promotes cell renewal, reduces hyperpigmentation, fine lines and acne
  • Ideal for: Sensitive skin, mature skin, uneven skin tone
  • Frequency of use: Depending on the product and skin tolerance
  • Combine with: Moisturizers, sunscreen
  • Do not use with: Other strong exfoliants without medical advice

What is mandelic acid?

Mandelic acid, a mild alpha-hydroxy acid, is obtained from bitter almonds. It is known for its gentle but effective exfoliating effect and is often used in skin care products for sensitive skin types.

Benefits of mandelic acid for the skin

  • Gentle exfoliation: Promotes the removal of dead skin cells, resulting in a fresher and more radiant complexion.
  • Reduction of hyperpigmentation: Helps to reduce dark spots and age spots and ensures a more even skin tone.
  • Improvement of acne: Can reduce the frequency of acne breakouts with regular use.

Possible side effects

  • Skin irritation: Excessive use or very sensitive skin may cause redness and irritation.
  • Increased sensitivity to the sun: As with all AHAs, mandelic acid increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, so it is important to use sun protection.

Application recommendations

  • Depending on the product formulation: Mandelic acid can be found in serums, creams and special treatment products. It should be used according to the instructions of the respective product.
  • Sun protection is a must: due to the increased UV sensitivity, sunscreen should always be used during the day.

How not to use it

  • Not in combination with other strong exfoliants: The simultaneous use of mandelic acid with other strong acids or exfoliants should be avoided without medical advice.
  • Do not use on irritated or injured skin: Mandelic acid should not be used on open wounds or severely inflamed skin.

FAQ

1 Who is mandelic acid suitable for? Ideal for people with sensitive skin who want to benefit from gentle exfoliation.

2 How often should mandelic acid be used? The frequency of application depends on the product formulation and individual skin tolerance.

3. can mandelic acid help with acne? Yes, due to its gentle exfoliating effect it can have a supportive effect in the treatment of acne.

Conclusion

Mandelic acid is an excellent active ingredient for those looking for gentle but effective exfoliation. It is particularly suitable for sensitive skin types and can contribute to a brighter, more even complexion with regular use. As with all active ingredients, proper application and consideration of individual skin sensitivities is important for the best results.

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The Derma Check AI
The Derma Check's AI has been trained with the help of numerous scientific studies. She specializes in cosmetic ingredients and their effects.