Mandelic or Amygdalic acid is an 8-carbon alpha hydroxy acid, derived from the hydrolysis of bitter almond extract. It has been tested in the treatment of the most common skin imperfections such as photoaging, irregular pigmentation, and acne.
More acidic than glycolic acid at 25°C, Mandelic acid has proven to be an effective exfoliating peel that causes a slight burning sensation and redness. The active ingredient is particularly effective in repairing and reactivating the skin, possessing depigmenting properties, making it a suitable product for the treatment of non-cystic inflammatory acne. It has also been observed that, not being a photosensitizer, it lightens freckles more quickly than common alpha hydroxy acids. Mandelic acid can be used throughout the year, regardless of the patient's phototype, due to the absence of hyperpigmentation risk.