Look Out for Mandelic Acid
What is mandelic acid?
Mandelic acid is a newly recognized Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA). It is not one of the most popular AHAs since it is relatively new on the market. Mandelic acid, derived from the hydrolysis of an extract of bitter almonds, is used to treat photo-ageing, irregular pigmentation and acneic skin.
What does mandelic acid do for the skin?
Mandelic acid is a great go-to anti-aging ingredient. It works to accelerate cell turnover by dissolving the bonds that hold your skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin on the surface of the skin that can lead to dull skin-tone and fine lines. It also strengthens collagen, one of the building blocks to the skin that gives it firmness.
What type of skin will benefit from mandelic acid?
Mandelic acid is great for sensitive skin and African America skin. Mandelic acid molecules penetrate slower into the skin than glycolic acid, making it not as effective for normal skin. If you have sensitive skin or darker skin tones of Middle Eastern or African descent, mandelic acid is a great choice.
Studies have shown that mandelic acid combined with salicylic acid work well together in a higher-strength peel for use on darker skin tones struggling with discolorations and post-acne scarring.
Mandelic acid has also shown to reduce melasma, resulting in a more evenly colored complexion. Melasma is a common skin condition in which light to dark brown or greyish pigmentation develops on the face.
For darker skin tones, mandelic acid is the safest way to lighten imperfections without using a harmful bleaching solution.
What are the side affects of mandelic acid?
Immediately after applying, skin will feel sensitive. It may become dry, flaky, and turn a pinkish color. It may take two to three days for the skin to heal. Stay out of the sun, avoid strong chemicals, exfoliation, and certain serums that you may use on a daily basis. Make sure to use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Wear a hat for extra protection.
Don’t forget your hat & sunscreen. You don’t want to make your skin worse.
What are the treatment benefits of mandelic acid?
Reducing dark spots
Improving skin texture
Lightening freckles
Refining skin tone
Unclogging Skin pores
Reducing acne
Lightening skin tone
Reducing fine lines
Evening out the complexion
Antibacterial properties-lessening blackheads and pimples
Gently exfoliate your skin with mandelic acid to reveal a brighter complexion!
Leave a comment if you have any questions.