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Mandelic Acid - How to add it to your skin care routine for glowing skin
Whenever we're looking for that natural glow we typically turn to exfoliants. But there's one you may have been ignoring, one that is loved by those who have sensitive skin. Introducing; mandelic acid. In this post we're going to reveal:
- What it is
- It's powerful skin benefits
What is mandelic acid?
Mandelic acid is naturally derived from bitter almonds. It is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is used to exfoliate the skin. It designed to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, and fight the signs of ageing. If you're a newbie to the world of exfoliants it's probably the best one to try first since it is the most gentle of all the alpha-hydroxy acids. It is safely used by a wide range of skin types.
How is it different from other AHA's?
What sets mandelic acid apart from its AHA cousins is the size of its molecules. Its molecules are larger than any of the other alpha hydroxy acids used in skincare. Its molecules are twice the size of the ones in glycolic acid.
Why is it great for sensitive skin?
Mandelic acid's larger molecules penetrate the skin much more slowly than its smaller molecule counterparts. This slow absorption means it's much gentler and much less likely to cause skin irritation.
Powerful Skin Benefits
The beautiful thing about mandelic acid is the longer you use it, the better results you will see. Here are the skin benefits you can look forward to:
1. It brightens the skin
Exfoliated skin feels softer and smoother, and looks brighter.
2. Fades hyperpigmentation and dark spots
Helps fade hyperpigmentation of all types: sun spots or age spots, freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and melasma.
3. Helps Acne Blemishes and Marks
Although it's not a stand- alone acne treatment, incorporating it in your skin care routine can help clear pores and reduce comedones. And because it has antibacterial effects, it's helpful in reducing inflammatory acne. It can also improve fade dark spots caused by breakouts.
4. Anti-aging
It can help soften fine lines, and long-term use may help with firmness and elasticity. Studies have shown that mandelic acid can help your dry skin produce more of its own sebum or natural oil.
5. Great for sensitive skin
People who are sensitive to other AHAs can often use mandelic acid without any irritation. It's especially good for skin that is prone to discoloration because it won't trigger inflammation and hyperpigmentation as other AHAs can.
Minor Side Effects
While mandelic acid is very mild compared to other AHA all alpha hydroxy acid products and treatments starting with a high percentage can cause side effects such as:
- Dry and flaky skin
- Peeling
- Irritation or redness
- Skin that feels tender or sensitive
Tips for Using Mandelic Acid
1. Whenever starting a new treatment we recommend that you start off with a low concentration and increase over time with something like Pure Fiji's GLYCOLIC OVERNIGHT RENEWAL PEEL WITH MANDELIC + NIACINAMIDE. Here's why it's so effective for achieving clear, radiant skin:
Glycolic - The holy grail of exfoliation; effectively removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the complexion, revealing brighter, fresher skin.
Mandelic Acid is a powerful alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works to accelerate cell turnover and remove dead skin cells. Strengthens collagen, assists with evening skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation and combats acne through its antibacterial properties.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) - A highly effective, versatile ingredient that renews and restores moistureless, dehydrated skin by helping improve the natural production of skin strengthening ceramides. Visibly improves and minimizes enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps fight free radicals, acne and congestion and reduces redness.
Lepidium Sativum Sprout Extract - High in antioxidants; this ingredient prevents photo-ageing, targets and lightens age/dark spots, prevents their appearance and creates an even skin tone.
Galactoarabinan (GA) - A natural plant collagen that boosts the skins natural ability to retain moisture, improves the skin's texture and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Avoid high-strength peels when using it at home. Leave that to the professionals. The higher the percentage of mandelic acid in your peel the greater the risk of side effects.
3. As always wear sunscreen daily. Any AHA peel or product can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
4. Never combine mandelic acid with prescription topical medications or other types of peels.
Summary
The biggest benefit of mandelic acid is its gentle nature. Other AHAs and topical Retinoids may work faster but not all skin types and skin conditions can handle these products. Remember that in order to achieve great results you need to be consistent with your skin care routine and most of all patience my dear.
