Mandelic Acid: Glycolic’s Less Irritating Cousin
Oh, hey, have you met mandelic acid? Allow us to introduce you to the gentle, multi-tasking, high-performance AHA derived from bitter almonds and best known for its ability to effectively target acne, aging and hyperpigmentation while keeping it all totally chill.
You’re probably already familiar glycolic acid, the alpha of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), at least in terms of popularity. And for good reason—it’s highly effective—but the quick penetration that makes glycolic acid so effective can also be a cause of irritation for many.
Because of its larger molecular structure, mandelic acid penetrates the skin more slowly, which results in less irritation. This, in addition to its antioxidant, anti-bacterial and natural brightening properties, makes it ideal for all skin types, and just plain ideal.
Reasons to make mandelic acid your new best friend
Anti-Aging
Like other AHAs, mandelic acid is an exfoliating agent. It accelerates cell renewal by dissolving the glue-like structure that binds skin cells to slough off dead cells and accelerate cell renewal. The result is a thinning of the outer layer of skin, the stratum corneum (SC), making skin appear lighter, brighter, firmer and smoother. At the same time, it promotes collagen production to increase skin’s elasticity and youthful appearance.
Acne
In addition to being and excellent exfoliator, mandelic acid has strong anti-bacterial properties making it ideal for acne prone skin. Mandelic acid clears away impactions, flushes pores and fights the bacteria that feed acne. Skin texture becomes smoother and complexion clearer. Mandelic acid also helps to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Hyperpigmentation and Discoloration
Mandelic acid is a natural brightener. Melasma, hyperpigmentation, age spots and acne scarring all improve when treated with mandelic acid. A study by Dr. Mark Taylor, MD published in the journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reported patients with melasma saw up to 50% improvement after one month using a 10% mandelic acid application.
Bonus for darker skin tones: Because its larger molecular size makes it less irritating, mandelic acid has proven to be highly effective and safe for black and Asian skin prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Meet The Mandelics
Vivant’s mandelic-based products offer something for every skin type and tone in a range of superstar serums, toners, washes and wipes.
Mandelic Acid 8% 3-in-1 Serum and 15% 3-in-1 Serum
Accelerate cell renewal, boost collagen production, refine, retexture and rebalance skin for a clearer, brighter, more youthful complexion. Available in both a starter and an advanced formula.
Mandelic Acid 3% 3-in-1 Toner and 9% 3-in-1 Toner
Offered in two strengths, this brightening and clarifying toner clears surface buildup, promotes exfoliation, and goes deep into pores to remove dirt, oil and makeup and primes skin for more efficient, faster absorption of corrector serums.
A rejuvenating blend of mandelic acid, green tea extract, kiwi extract, grape seed oil and honey. Stimulates cell renewal, controls acne-causing bacteria, brightens and balances skin tone.
Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser
The ultimate healthy cleanse for face and body is intensified with the addition of exfoliating granules.
Daily Repair Pads With 1% Mandelic Acid
Remove dirt, oil, sweat, and other impurities, and improve skin texture and tone with a simple swipe.
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