Mandelic Acid: Exfoliate Your Skin

Dermatologists break down this miracle AHA

"Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)”.

"Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds,". "Larger in molecular weight compared to glycolic acid (another type of AHA) so it may be gentler on skin as it penetrates more slowly,".

Whenever our skin is feeling dull and congested and is in serious need of overall rejuvenation, we turn to peels. They remove the uppermost, superficial layer of skin to promote the growth of newer, healthy skin and address skin problems like acne and hyperpigmentation. While it seems like we've covered everything that you need to know about peels, there is one in particular that has been flying under the radar. Say hello to Mandelic acid.

Benefits of AHAs

·         AHA’s dissolve the glue-like lipids holding dead cells together.

·         When dead cells are decreased, fewer cracks and fissures can lead to irritation.

·         Surface lines even out.

·         Dead cells plugging pores dissolve.

·         Pigment that has built up in surface skin is removed.

·         Cell renewal is returned to a rate of 30 years of age.

·         Increased cell renewal causes cells to become denser and more compact, making your skin a more effective barrier to outside irritants.

·         Denser skin means moisture is held in and skin becomes more pliable and supple.

·         With the outer layer, corneum, less clogged and “cross-linked” with dead skin cells, the skin becomes nourished and moisturized from below, allowing the skin to become more elastic and less wrinkled.

·         AHAs increase the acidity of skin, which helps cell renewal.

Benefits of Mandelic Acid

• Exfoliates: Mandelic acid is a chemical exfoliant, meaning it removes layers of older skin cells through a reaction with the skin (rather than exfoliating via abrasive scrubs).
• Promotes cell turnover: By releasing skin cells attached to the surface of the skin, Mandelic acid works to increase cell turnover, reducing the appearance of skin damage or acne.
• Brightens skin: Exfoliated skin appears brighter and Mandelic acid goes a step further, strengthening the skin so it stays bright with continued use.
• Reduces hyperpigmentation: Increased cell turnover and exfoliating properties mean the acid reduces the look of dark marks and sun damage.

Conclusion

Mandelic acid is an increasingly popular Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) used for skin care that is derived from the hydrolysis of an extract of bitter almonds. AHAs improve skin texture and reduce the signs of aging by promoting cell shedding in the outer layers of the epidermis and by restoring hydration. The mechanism of action is not completely understood.  Mandelic acid, used in combination with Phytic acid, Lactic Acid, and Glycolic Acid, was found to be effective in the treatment of acne and melasma. Mandelic acid is considered to be a low-risk ingredient for skincare use and safe to use in skincare.