The guides · Chemical exfoliants
Mandelic Acid
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Alpha-hydroxy acid with the largest molecular weight of common AHAs — produces the most gradual exfoliation. Particularly suited to sensitive skin and skin prone to the look of uneven tone.
What it does
Alpha-hydroxy acid with the largest molecular weight of common AHAs — produces the most gradual exfoliation. Particularly suited to sensitive skin and skin prone to the look of uneven tone.
The facts
- Effective pH
- 3.5–4.5
- Category
- Chemical exfoliants
- Also known as
- Mandelic
- Pregnancy
- Generally considered fine; ask your doctor
Pairs with · fights with
Pairs well with
Conflicts
- Retinoidssame night
- Other AHAs in same step
Before you use it
Derived from bitter almonds. Increases photosensitivity. Often recommended as a first AHA for sensitive or reactive skin profiles.
On the label
Listed as "mandelic acid" in INCI. Effective at 5–10% — gentler per-percent than glycolic. Often in formulas positioned for sensitive or reactive skin.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
On the shelf
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See also
Glycolic Acid
Alpha-hydroxy acid with the smallest molecular weight of the AHA family, allowing relatively deeper skin penetration.…
Read the guide →Lactic Acid
Alpha-hydroxy acid derived from fermentation. Larger molecule than glycolic acid — gentler exfoliation profile. Also …
Read the guide →Gluconolactone
Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — chemical exfoliant with a larger molecular weight than AHAs. Delivers the smoothing effect o…
Read the guide →
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