Mandelic acid is an Alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) derived from almonds. It has twice the molecular weight of glycolic acid and consequently is less skin penetrative and causes less irritation. It is apt for use on moderately sensitive skins.

Its smooth exfoliating effect progressively stimulates the cell renewal cycle. It is indicated as an adjuvant treatment for dyschromias (including pregnancy melasma – “mask”) and for skin texture and luminosity improvement. It also helps the skin to self-generate collagen and elastin.

With a pKa of 3.51, it is an acid that dissociates quickly above pH 2.5 levels. At a physiological pH value of the skin it will be 99.2% dissociated. It is one of the more quickly dissociating AHAs which means for it to be effective the pH levels must be kept very low. If the pH level is incorrect, any increase in the dosage will result in its almost complete dissociation. It should be noted that a greater concentration does not automatically mean greater efficiency as much depends on the pH level of the formulation.

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