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Mandelic Acid

INCI: Mandelic Acid
Also known as: AHA, Almond Acid
ExfoliantsexfoliantbotanicalModerate evidencePregnancy safe
80
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
1/5
Best applied
PM
Effective range
5%–10%
How It Works

A large-molecule AHA derived from bitter almonds. Slower penetration makes it the gentlest of the AHAs, ideal for sensitive or pigmented skin.

Lower penetration rate due to molecular size limits irritation while still loosening intercellular bonds in the upper stratum corneum. Has independent antibacterial action.

pH Range
3.0–4.0
Benefits
  • Gentle resurfacing
  • Antibacterial
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Safe for darker skin tones
  • Reduces PIH
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

AcnePIHSensitive aging skinMelasma
Best For
  • Sensitive
  • Darker skin tones
  • Acne-prone
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
3/10

Apply early in routine, toner/essence step.

Max Safe Concentration
40% peel

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 5%–10%

Seasonal Use

Year-round; safer summer choice than glycolic.

Nutrition Connection

Derived from bitter almond hydrolysis.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

First-line AHA for Fitzpatrick IV–VI to minimise PIH risk.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Mandelic Acid.

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review
Gut microbiome dysbiosis is significantly associated with inflammatory skin conditions including acne and rosacea.
Dréno B, Dagnelie MA, Khammari A, Corvec S
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020
View Study →
Systematic Review
EPA supplementation at 1.8g/day reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 42% over 12 weeks.
Thomsen BJ, Chow EY, Sapijaszko MJ
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2020
View Study →
Systematic Review
Vitamin D deficiency significantly associated with acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Mostafa WZ, Hegazy RA
Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
View Study →
Systematic Review
Androgen receptors in sebaceous glands directly regulate sebum production, establishing the hormonal basis of acne.
Makrantonaki E, Ganceviciene R, Zouboulis C
Dermato-Endocrinology, 2011
View Study →
Pairs Well With
NiacinamideAzelaic AcidHyaluronic Acid
Conflicts With
RetinolOther AHAs
Your Skin Compatibility

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