Use Mandelic Acid for Hyperpigmentation-Prone Skin

Multi-tasking mandelic acid is an excellent choice for all skin tones but has some unique advantages for dark skin because of its non-irritating action.

• Why is dark skin more prone to hyperpigmentation?
• Why is mandelic acid so good for dark skin tones?
• Is mandelic acid as effective as other acids?
• The unique benefits of mandelic acid

All skin types and tones experience pigmentation issues, but the risk of hyperpigmentation for dark skin tones is magnified because of the greater concentration of melanin in the skin. Because there are more melanocytes in dark skin, the hyperpigmentation will be more intense and take longer to fade. Irritation and inflammation are triggers for melanocytes, consequently, dark skin needs to be treated less aggressively than lighter tones.

Mandelic acid’s large molecular structure slows its absorption into the skin, so it doesn’t cause irritation that can trigger an inflammatory response. An acid like glycolic has a small molecular structure so it penetrates the skin quickly, which can be too aggressive for sensitive skin.

Mandelic acid works less rapidly than an acid like glycolic, but the results are equally impressive. In fact, mandelic acid has some unique properties that make it a multi-tasking hero for all skin types and tones.

Like other acids, mandelic’s exfoliating properties help lift excess pigment from the surface of skin. But mandelic acid also works in the deeper layers of skin to inhibit excess melanin production. Mandelic acid blocks tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for activating melanocytes.

In addition to its melanin-inhibiting and micro-exfoliating properties, mandelic acid is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory, making it ideal for treating acne, especially in sensitive skin. It clears dead skin cells, kills acne bacteria, reduces redness and inflammation, and helps to diminish the appearance of acne scars.

Mandelic acid has benefits for aging skin as well. It accelerates cell renewal making skin appear lighter, brighter, firmer, and smoother. At the same time, mandelic acid promotes collagen production to increase skin’s elasticity and youthful appearance.

Gentle mandelic acid is also an ideal choice for use during pregnancy and nursing. 

With its multiple benefits and gentle activity, mandelic acid is superhero ingredient in any regimen, but an absolute must for treating acne, aging, and hyperpigmentation in dark skin tones.