Mandelic acid (Mandelic Acid) is an organic chemical compound with the formula C8H8O3. The pure substance is in the form of white, crystalline flakes and dissolves in alcohol and propylene glycol and partially in water. It belongs to the so-called AHA (alpha-hydroxy) acids. It is an acid found in nature in bitter almonds and it is obtained from them for cosmetic purposes.
Cosmetic properties of mandelic acid
Mandelic acid solutions in various concentrations (from 5 to 40%) are widely used in cosmetics. This is due to the numerous health-promoting and cosmetic properties of this substance. The action of mandelic acid on the skin is two-way: on the one hand it is exfoliating (keratolytic) and on the other hand it is disinfecting (antiseptic). The exfoliating properties of mandelic acid are proportional to its concentration. The creams use concentrations of 5-15 percent. and these are usually mild exfoliating night creams.
Professional chemical peeling treatments with almond acid, used in beauty salons, are performed with solutions with a concentration of 30-40%. Mandelic acid exfoliates the outer layers of the epidermis, thus evening the skin tone and leaving it smooth, lightens discoloration and scars on the skin. The appearance of the skin after treatment with mandelic acid improves, especially gray and tired skin. Small wrinkles are reduced and enlarged pores narrow. The exfoliating effect stimulates the skin to regenerate and produce hyaluronic acid, so not only does mandelic acid reduce the signs of skin aging, but also has an anti-aging effect by firming the skin.
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In addition, mandelic acid has properties that regulate the secretion of sebum, it is perfect for oily and problematic skin.
The antibacterial properties of mandelic acid also help. It inhibits the growth of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (golden staphylococcus, which often causes undesirable skin lesions), Proteus sp. (Mites), Escherichia coli (coli) and Klebsiella aerogenes. Therefore, it is perfect for acne skin care, reduces existing acne and prevents the formation of pimples, pimples and blackheads and soothes skin inflammations.
In addition to caring for the skin of the face and neckline, almond acid is also used in creams that soften the skin of the feet.
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Advantages of using mandelic acid
In addition to the aforementioned properties (including antibacterial and anti-aging), which give great results when it comes to the appearance of the skin, mandelic acid has a number of advantages related to its use in practice.
First of all, it is a fairly mild acid compared to other AHA acids. Usually it is very well tolerated by the skin, without causing irritation and redness or discoloration as side effects of the treatment. Therefore, it is suitable even for sensitive couperose skin. Almond acid can be used all year round – however, in summer, cosmetics with a UV filter should be used after its application.
However, there are no contraindications to go out in the sun when using sunscreen, as mandelic acid does not cause photosensitization. So, having a choice of treatments with glycolic, lactic, salicylic and almond acids, in summer and with sensitive skin, it is best to choose mandelic acid. It is a much safer and gentler alternative.