Glow Definition
Mandelic acid is a type of AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) used in skincare for its gentle, slow-acting approach to exfoliation. Derived from bitter almonds, it has one of the largest molecular sizes of all AHAs, which means it penetrates the skin more slowly — offering a smoother, more gradual resurfacing effect that many find easier to tolerate.
Because of this, mandelic acid is often favored in glow routines designed for sensitive, breakout-prone or uneven skin types. It’s commonly included in serums, toners, or multi-acid treatments that support texture refinement, visible clarity, and a balanced skin feel — especially where other exfoliants might be too strong. While its results may take longer to appear, mandelic acid’s reputation for being both versatile and forgiving has made it a go-to for those easing into acids.
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Why It Matters
Mandelic acid in skincare stands out for its ability to gently support skin renewal without overwhelming it. It’s not about instant polish — it’s about consistency, balance, and gradual refinement that respects your skin’s pace. Especially in routines where glow is layered, not forced, mandelic acid makes space for exfoliation that works behind the scenes without disrupting your barrier.
Its adaptable nature also makes it easy to pair with other skincare steps — from calming hydrators to targeted serums — making it a quiet multitasker in glow-first routines that shift with your skin’s needs.
GLOW TIP Start with mandelic acid just 1-2 nights a week, especially if you’re new to exfoliation — it plays well between hydrating and barrier-supportive steps when your skin needs a gentler rest.
Why We Love It For Glow
Using mandelic acid in skincare is a gentle, but effective approach. It often offers a slow-release exfoliation effect that makes it a smart pick for glow-seekers with sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
Because of its larger molecular size, mandelic acid doesn’t dive in too aggressively — giving skin a smoother, more even-toned appearance over time without the drama. It’s also one of the few acids that works well in multi-acid blends and minimalist routines.
Reach for The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA — a beginner-friendly exfoliant that gently refines skin with mandelic acid and hydrates with hyaluronic acid.
The watery texture layers seamlessly under other skincare, making it a fuss-free way to introduce a mild acid into your glow routine — especially if your kin leans reactive or breakout-prone.
FAQ
Is glycolic acid okay for sensitive skin?
Many find mandelic acid to be a beginner-friendly choice when searching for the best exfoliants for sensitive skin. Its slow absorption rate may help reduce the likelihood of visible irritation compared to smaller-molecule acids.
What’s the difference between mandelic acid and glycolic acid?
Both are AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), but mandelic acid has a larger molecular size, which means it penetrates skin more slowly. This makes it a gentler option for those exploring how to start exfoliating without irritation — especially compared to stronger acids like glycolic.
Can I layer mandelic acid with other exfoliants?
When layering chemical exfoliants, proceed with caution. If you’re wondering how to layer mandelic acid in a routine with other actives like salicylic acid or retinoids, we suggest alternating days or using them in different routines (AM vs PM) to avoid over-exfoliation.