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What Is Mandelic Acid? According to Murray, mandelic acid is an exfoliating acid (Alpha-Hydroxy Acids or AHA) that is derived from apples, in the same category as glycolic and lactic acid. "It's one of the more gentle acids. It has a very small molecule," she tells E!. The weight of the molecule is very important—the smaller the weight, the deeper the absorbtion in your skin. When a molecule is larger, it has a harder time sinking deeper into your skin. Don't let it scare you, though. AHAs exfoliate and absorb deep into your skin while remaining gentle. Mandelic acid is commonly recommended for acne-prone skin, active breakouts, and overall sensitive skin. "It's being used for treating acne, because you never want to overdry, overstrip, overexfoliate, because it can just exacerbate the condition," Murray shared. She also recommends the ingredient for treating hyperpigmentation, which can follow breakouts. Murray highly recommends products with mandelic acid for adult and mature women that get cyclical breakouts, have sensitive skin, and hyperpigmentation. "I would even feel comfortable using it for rosacea," she says. On the other hand, for teens who struggle with acne, she suggests salicylic acid and willow bark to address the oil congestion instead.
