10 Best Mandelic Acid Products that Will Completely Change Your Skin

Mandelic acid is one of the best skincare ingredients for anyone dealing with oily skin, acne, and dark spots.

Here are my top 10 recommendations for the best mandelic acid products:

This article will explain everything you need to know about mandelic acids and how to use them in your skin care routine.

Best Mandelic Acid Serum for Oily Skin

For people with oily skin types, this gentle serum combining mandelic acid and gluconalatone is going to be amazing.

Besides the alpha hydroxy acid and gentle polyhydroxy acid, it also contains silica sylate to help control oil production. No more greasiness!

Best Mandelic Acid Serum for Dark Spots

This serum from Allies of Skin a no-brainer for people with dark spots.

It has an incredible blend of mandelic and lactic acid in this formula plus bakuchiol and other brightening agents.

Not only will it turn over your dead skin cells but it will also help regulate melanin production to get your acne under control!

Best Mandelic Acid Serum for Redness

This serum combines both mandelic acid and phytic acid to pack a powerful punch against redness.

Plus, it contains glycerin which works similar to hyaluronic acid to hydrate your skin.

Overall, this is a great product to help control your complexion and protect your skin barrier.

Best Mandelic Acid Serum for Acne Prone Skin

Formulated with two alpha hydroxy acids and salicylic acid, this serum from Colleen Rothschild is a powerhouse against acne.

Further, it contains a gentle derivative of vitamin C to help fight uneven skin tone.

Best Mandelic Acid Serum for Uneven Skin Texture

Stratia Soft Touch AHA is such a game changer for people with uneven skin texture.

First, the mandelic acid in the formula will help unclog pores and reduce congestion. Then, the whole host of soothing ingredients will support and rehydrate your barrier.

Trust me, you’ll wake up with happy, plump skin afterwards.

Best Mandelic Acid Serum for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin types will love this star chemical exfoliant from Youth to the People.

The mandelic acid in this product is so subtle and gentle, but it’s combined other phenomenal skin loving ingredients like:

• Salicylic acid

• Gluconalactone

• Licorice Root

• Glucosamine

You’ll love how this product fights your acne, dark spots, and dull skin without causing any irritation.

Best Mandelic Acid Face Wash

If you prefer the convenience of getting your active ingredients in a cleanser instead of an exfoliant, this Neostrata face wash is the one for you.

It combines alpha hydroxy acids with surfactants for an effective clean that can also help with oily and dull skin.

Best Overall Mandelic Acid Serum:

If you’re looking for an affordable and effective basic mandelic acid serum, check out Naturium Mandelic Topical Acid 12%.

While the concentration is higher than some other products on this list, it’s super effective if you can tolerate it.

Plus, it contains natural fruit extracts and niacinamide to help gently exfoliate your skin and provide barrier support.

Best Budget Mandelic Acid Serum #1

If you need a mandelic acid serum on a budget, you can’t go wrong with The Ordinary. It’s simple, it’s effective, and many people love it.

That being said, it does have a bit of a greasy feeling to it that you might not love.

Best Budget Mandelic Acid Serum #2

The Inkey List also makes a good mandelic acid serum.

Interesting, it combines both mandelic acid and retinol for help exfoliate your skin and fade dark spots.

That being said, not everyone wants their retinol and exfoliating acids combined, and it’s okay if you don’t!

What is mandelic acid?

Mandelic acid is one of the most gentle alpha hydroxy acids in skincare.

It has benefits like improving skin texture and evening out skin tone. Additionally, it is more suitable for people with acne prone skin thanks to its structural similarity to salicylic acid.

You’ll typically find mandelic acid in skincare product ranging from 5-15% concentration to target discoloration and signs of aging.

Benefits of Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid benefits include:

• Suitability for deeper skin tones

• Promoting chemical exfoliants

• Improving skin texture and tone

• Antibacterial properties

• Anti-fungal properties

Mandelic acid is also more suitable for people with sensitive skin than glycolic acid or lactic acid as it is a larger molecule and penetrates skin more slowly.

It’s an all-around great ingredient and totally underrated in skin care.

Side Effects of Mandelic Acid

While mandelic acid is the most gentle alpha hydroxy acid and suitable for most people, you should also be aware of any potential side effects like:

• Dryness and peeling

• Increased sun sensivity

• Skin irritation

To reduce your chances of irritation, don’t use mandelic acid products too often and always follow up with a moisturizer afterwards.

How to Use Mandelic Acid

To use mandelic acid, follow these steps:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser

2. Apply about a dime sized amount of mandelic acid to your face

3. Gently rub in until absorbed

4. Foll0w up with your favorite moisturizer

That’s it!