AN-Acide mandélique
Mandelic acid
| Type of ingrédient | Exfoliant |
| Available forms | Exfoliating products, toning lotions, serums … |
| Origin | Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs are good for the skin because they loosen the connections between affected surface skin cells to allow the cells to shed naturally, resulting in a fresher, brighter complexion. Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid derived from almonds. |
| Main benefits | Increases cell renewal, anti-acne, anti-ageing. Like any chemical exfoliator, it makes the skin luminous and radiant. |
| Characteristics | Larger in molecular weight than glycolic acid, it can therefore be gentler on the skin as it penetrates more slowly. |
| Target group | In general, people with sensitive or acne-prone skin who want a less aggressive exfoliant than traditional AHAs. |
| Frequency | Once a week (preferably at night), as excessive exfoliation causes irritation and other potential skin conditions. |
| Association | Hyaluronic acid, other moisturisers. |
| Dissociation/ Contraindication | Other AHAs, other peels, retinol, retinoids. In addition, this scrub should not be applied to tanned or sunburned skin. |
| Side effects | As with any AHA, mandelic acid can irritate your skin. But unlike almost all other AHAs, the potential is extremely low. |
| Use | As with any ordinary peel, avoid using retinol for at least ten days beforehand. For post-peel activities, you should avoid any activity that will make you sweat and the sun, as your skin will be more sensitive. |