Mandelic acid is a hydroxy acid with an alpha hydroxyl group (AHA). AHAs are beneficial to the skin because they loosen the connections between affected surface skin cells (called desmosomes), allowing the cells to shed freely, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Mandelic acid comes from almonds and is an alpha hydroxy acid. Therefore, Mandelic acid for skin is a great solution to anti-aging.

The purpose of all AHAs is to exfoliate the skin. They also make you more sensitive to the sun, so wearing sunscreen is a must with any AHA skincare routine. It's commonly offered as a kit with other treatments, and it works by exfoliating the skin to enhance the texture.

How To Use Mandelic Acid?

Despite the fact that mandelic acid is a much milder chemical exfoliant, there are some general guidelines to follow while applying mandelic acid to your skin:
1) Exfoliators are best used at night since they might make your skin sensitive to the sun.
2) After cleansing, apply your mandelic acid on dry skin. It should be used prior to your moisturizer and other serums. 3) Avoid the skin surrounding your eyes at all costs.
4) Begin with a tiny dose of mandelic acid to adapt your skin to the acid, and always use a moisturizer afterward.
5) Consult your dermatologist to determine the acid's unique skin interaction, since various aims necessitate different levels of concentration.
6) Mandelic acid should not be used in conjunction with other exfoliants such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid since it might cause abrasion on the skin.
7) The chemical should not be used with retinoids since it might cause skin irritation.
8) Do a patch test in the inner arm or the back of the ear at least 24 hours before putting the acid on your face. If you see any peeling, blistering, irritation, or breaking on your skin, it's generally best to avoid using it.
9) On damaged skin, never use mandelic acid or any other exfoliant.
10) You should also avoid using it shortly after a procedure on artificially treated skin, such as tanning or clinical peels.
11) Stop utilizing any active ingredients 3-5 days before using mandelic acid for the first time.

How Often Should You Use Mandelic Acid?

We recommend not using Mandelic acid more than twice or thrice a week. We also recommend that you use it only in your nighttime skincare routine to avoid any UV damage and follow it up with a high-quality moisturizer.

Benefits of Mandelic Acid

1) Exfoliation: Mandelic acid for skin is a chemical exfoliator, which means it reacts with the skin to remove layers of dead skin cells (rather than exfoliating via abrasive scrubs).
2) Cell turnover: Mandelic acid serves to accelerate cell turnover by releasing skin cells adhered to the surface of the skin, minimizing the appearance of skin damage or acne. Mandelic acid for fine lines and wrinkle treatment is quite popular.
3) Brightens the skin: Exfoliated skin seems brighter, and mandelic acid takes it a step further by fortifying the skin, ensuring that it remains bright over time.
4) Decreases hyperpigmentation: Because of its exfoliating capabilities and increased cell turnover, the acid reduces the appearance of dark spots and sun damage.

Benefits of Mandelic Acid for Treating Different Skin Conditions

1) Discoloration and hyperpigmentation: Melasma is a common skin disorder in which the face acquires light to dark brown or greyish pigmentation. Mandelic acid has been demonstrated to diminish melasma by up to 50% in four weeks, giving you a more even-toned complexion.
2) Acne: The antibacterial properties of mandelic acid are highly beneficial in the treatment of acne. It also aids in the regulation of sebum production, which reduces the occurrence of breakouts. Mandelic acid has even been demonstrated to help patients with cystic acne.
3) Fine lines and wrinkles: In the field of skincare, mandelic acid is a go-to anti-aging component. It works by breaking the microscopic connections that hold skin cells together, assisting in the removal of dead skin on the surface that can cause dull complexions and fine wrinkles. Collagen, one of the building components of the skin's support network that provides it young firmness, is also strengthened.

Side Effects Of Using Mandelic Acid

When using any skincare product, there is a danger of negative effects. Mandelic acid is safe for some people, but if you suffer any form of irritation, such as redness, swelling, or itching, you should stop taking it. Always do a patch test first to keep yourself safe from allergic reactions.
It's possible that misuse of mandelic acid causes skin irritation after a few days or weeks of usage. Reduce the number of times you use mandelic acid-containing products each day to observe whether your skin gets better. You should also speak with a dermatologist about this and follow their advice.

Who Should Avoid Using Mandelic Acid?

As an acidic chemical exfoliant, and an AHA, Mandelic acid should be avoided by people with sensitive skin. It should also be avoided by people with eczema, sunburns, and open wounds.

Skin Ingredients To Mix Or Not To With Mandelic Acid

When combined with vitamin C, mandelic acid is quite effective. Encapsulated retinaldehyde, peptides, and antioxidants are also suitable matches for Mandelic acid.
However, you should avoid mixing mandelic acid with other acids like lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, etc because this might cause over-exfoliation and discomfort.

How To Pick The Right Mandelic Acid Products/Serum?

Mandelic acid is available in the form of serums, creams, and moisturizers. For at-home purposes, they are available in lower concentrations than 5% but experts advocate starting with a lesser dosage of mandelic acid, such as 25%, then gradually increasing to 30% or even 40% after your skin has developed a tolerance for it. However, researchers have shown that a concentration of 30% is just as efficient as a concentration of 40% in treating fine lines and wrinkles, so it's important to visit a dermatologist to figure out what would work best for you.

Conclusion

A steady, effective skincare routine is essential whether you're seeking to get rid of acne or improve skin texture and hyperpigmented spots. Mandelic acid for skin has the potential to completely alter your skin in as little as two weeks. It's a good option for sensitive skin because it's less irritating than other AHAs and has very minor negative effects. It's a good idea to see a dermatologist before employing any form of chemical peel. They can advise you on which products to use and how to utilize them effectively for your skin type.

FAQs

1) Can mandelic acid lighten the skin?
Mandelic acid can help with skin brightening, treating hyperpigmentation and melasma, and fading of dark spots.

2) What is the best time to use mandelic acid?
After cleaning and before moisturizing, use mandelic acid as part of your evening skincare regimen.

3) Can I use mandelic acid for oily skin?
Yes, mandelic acid is good for oily skin since it helps to regulate excess sebum production.