Mandelic Acid

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble organic exfoliating acids, and they occur naturally in many foods and milk sugars. Among the various types of hydroxy acids, we find:
Glycolic acid: derived from sugarcane, it’s known for its effectiveness in promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture.
Lactic acid: obtained from milk fermentation, it’s gentle and hydrating, ideal for sensitive skin and increasing skin hydration.
Malic acid: extracted from apples, this acid helps exfoliate the skin and boost its radiance.
Tartaric acid: derived from grapes, it helps exfoliate the skin while improving its even tone and radiance.
Citric acid: found in citrus fruits, it’s used to adjust the pH of cosmetics and has antioxidant properties.
Mandelic acid: derived from bitter almonds, it’s known for its antibacterial properties and helps regulate sebum production.
Pyruvic acid: a powerful exfoliant that can significantly improve skin texture and reduce imperfections like scars and dark spots.
The factors that affect the safety and effectiveness of AHAs include concentration, pH, exposure time, and the amount of free acid present.
For this reason, they should be used carefully to avoid potential adverse reactions such as swelling, burning, and itching. Our advice is definitely not to overuse overly high concentrations or long exposure times.
AHAs are typically found in products like toners, serums, peels, and even cleansers: so be careful not to use too many skincare products that contain them. They can end up being irritating and intolerable for your skin.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALPHA AND BETA HYDROXY ACIDS
AHAs are short-chain hydroxy acids that act on the outermost layer of the skin, stimulating cell turnover and improving skin elasticity. Thanks to their properties, AHAs are often used to treat Dry skin, sun-damaged skin, or skin with dark spots.
BHAs, on the other hand, are long-chain hydroxy acids that act deeply, penetrating pores to remove excess sebum and dead skin cells. Thanks to the benefits they provide, BHAs (mainly Salicylic Acid) are used to treat oily skin, acne-prone skin, or skin with enlarged pores.
If a cosmetic product is formulated with both types of these acids, it will deliver a deeper exfoliation full of benefits for the skin. Always remember to follow the product’s correct application instructions!