Questions About Antimicrobial Mandelic Acid in the Time of COVID-19

 

 

Amid the concerns about COVID-19, we’ve been getting a lot of questions about the antimicrobial properties of mandelic acid. We hope this quick Q&A is helpful as you look for ways to stay healthy and avoid the spread of the virus.

 

Q.  Is mandelic acid antibacterial or anti-microbial?

A.  Mandelic acid is an antimicrobial. Antimicrobials include anti-bacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

 

Q.  Aren’t anti-bacterial and anti-microbial the same thing?

A.  They are related, but not the same. Antimicrobial is the term for the broad category of agents that kill microbes. Antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal are all agents within the antimicrobial category, but each targets specific types of infectious microbes. Antibacterial agents kill bacteria, including E Coli, salmonella, and p. acnes. Antimicrobial agents kill all forms of microbes, whether bacterial, fungal, or viral.

 

Q.  Will mandelic acid cause antibacterial resistance?

A.  No. Because it is not just antibacterial, it is antimicrobial. While some “supergerms” have developed resistance to antibacterials, broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents are less susceptible to resistance. Also, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 is a virus, not a bacteria.

 

Q.  Can I wash my hands with Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Wash?

A.  Absolutely. Our Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Wash is not just for fighting acne. It can be used all over the body to help control fungal outbreaks, protect against viruses, clear scalp, back, or chest acne, and improve skin tone and texture.

 

Q.  Will mandelic acid irritate or dry my skin?

A.  Mandelic is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid. It has a larger molecular structure that is absorbed more slowly by the skin, which makes it less irritating than other AHAs. It is generally less drying than other AHAs and the Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Wash is formulated with anti-inflammatory green tea extract, nourishing grape seed oil, and humectant honey to replenish the skin.