What is mandelic acid?
According to Murray, mandelic acid is an exfoliating acid (alpha hydroxy acid, or AHA) derived from apples and is in the same category as glycolic acid and lactic acid.
“It’s one of the mildest acids. The molecules are very small,” she told E! The weight of the molecule is very important; the lower the weight, the deeper the absorption into the skin. The larger the molecule, the harder it is to penetrate deep into the skin. However, there’s no need to be scared. AHA exfoliates and absorbs deep into the skin while remaining gentle.
Mandelic acid is generally recommended for acne-prone skin, active breakouts, and overall sensitive skin. “When it comes to treating acne, you never want to over-dry, over-exfoliate or over-exfoliate because that will only make the symptoms worse,” Murray said. She also recommends ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation that can occur after breakouts.
Murray highly recommends products with mandelic acid for adults and mature women who experience periodic breakouts, sensitive skin, or hyperpigmentation. “I think it’s safe to use for rosacea,” she says. Meanwhile, for teens who suffer from acne, she suggests using salicylic acid and willow bark to combat oil clogs instead.
