Why We Love Mandelic Acid — A Gentle, Multi-Tasking Exfoliant for Clearer Skin

If you’ve ever felt like exfoliation causes more irritation than improvement, mandelic acid might be your answer. At Platinum Cosmetics, it’s one of our go-to ingredients for treating pigmentation, congestion and dullness — especially in sensitive skin types.

It’s effective, low-irritation, and easy to add to most skincare routines. Here’s why it deserves a place in yours.

What Is Mandelic Acid?

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Like other AHAs, it works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. But it has a key difference:

It has a larger molecular size.

That means it penetrates the skin more slowly, causing less irritation than glycolic or lactic acid.

What Skin Concerns Does It Help With?

Mandelic acid is ideal for clients dealing with:

• Pigmentation and melasma

• Post-acne marks

• Mild breakouts and congestion

• Uneven texture or dullness

• Early signs of ageing (fine lines, loss of glow)

It also has mild antibacterial properties, which makes it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin — without the harshness of salicylic acid.

Why We Use It in the Clinic

Mandelic acid often appears in:

• Facials designed for congested or reactive skin

• Post-laser home care routines to enhance brightness without triggering sensitivity

• Seasonal skin transitions, especially from winter to spring

Because it’s gentle, we can layer it into more treatment plans — especially for clients who’ve reacted to other actives in the past.

How to Use It Safely at Home

If you’re using mandelic acid in your routine:

• Start 1–2 times per week at night

• Avoid mixing with strong retinoids or vitamin C

• Always follow with a moisturiser

• Wear SPF 50+ daily — it’s still an exfoliant, and sun protection is essential

We stock a selection of pigment-safe, barrier-supportive exfoliants in our skin care range. Ask us about what’s best for your goals and skin type.

Book a Consultation for a Smarter Skincare Routine

If your skin is prone to sensitivity or pigmentation, there are still powerful options available — they just need to be chosen carefully. Book a consultation and we’ll help you build a routine that clears, brightens and strengthens — all without the sting.