The Basics On Mandelic Acid
What is Mandelic Acid?
A type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), also known as amygdalic acid. There’s some research showing mandelic acid is an effective exfoliant, although it’s not as effective as glycolic acid.
What are other names for Mandelic Acid?
ALPHA.-HYDROXYBENZENEACETIC ACID, (.+-.)-, 2-PHENYLGLYCOLIC ACID, A-HYDROXYBENZENEACETIC ACID, A-HYDROXYPHENYL ACETIC ACID, ALMOND ACID, AMYGDALIC ACID, BENZENEACETIC ACID, .ALPHA.-HYDROXY-, BENZENEACETIC ACID,A -HYDROXY-, and MANDELIC ACID
What is Mandelic Acid used for?
Mandelic acid is an increasingly popular Alpha-Hydroxy Acid used for skin care that is naturally derived from the hydrolysis of an extract of bitter almonds. Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) represent a class of compounds which have been widely used in a number of cosmetic and therapeutic formulations in order to achieve a variety of beneficial effects for the skin1. 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. One hypothesis suggests that AHAs reduce the calcium ion concentration in the epidermis and, through chelation, remove the ions from the cell adhesions, which are thereby disrupted, resulting in desquamation2. 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 3. Mandelic acid is considered to be a low-risk ingredient for skincare use and safe to use in skincare4.
How Mandelic Acid is classified
Exfoliant
Recommendations for using Mandelic Acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Limited data suggests no known risk
Mandelic Acid During Pregnancy
What we know about using Mandelic Acid while pregnant or breastfeeding
Limited information available.
N/A
General safety info about Mandelic Acid from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Products where you might find Mandelic Acid
Vivant Skin Care 8 Percent Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Serum, Vivant Skin Care Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash, Vivant Skin Care 9 Percent Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Toner, VMV Hypoallergenics Superskin 2 Monolaurin Plus Mandelic Acid Toner, Vivant Skin Care Mandelic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser; GLAMGLOW SUPERTONER Exfoliating Acid Solution Toner, The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA, GLAMGLOW SUPERSERUM 6-Acid Refining Treatment Serum, philosophy The Microdelivery Triple-Acid Brightening Peel, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel
List of References
General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
1. Kornhauser A, Coelho S, Hearing V. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2010;3:135-142. [PubMed] 2. Wang X. A theory for the mechanism of action of the alpha-hydroxy acids applied to the skin. Med Hypotheses. 1999;53(5):380-382. [PubMed] 3. Al-Mokadem O, Al-Asser A, Eman A. Easy phytic peel as a therapeutic agent in acne vulgaris and melasma. Egyptian Journal of Dermatology and Venerology. 2016;33(1):6. 4. Mandelic acid. EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/703735/MANDELIC_ACID/#.W7B_QGgzZhE. Published 2018. Accessed October 2018.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
