Acid-based therapies and treatments are in popular mistaken belief associated with aggressive skincare utilizing very strong if not harsh formulas. In reality, just the contrary may be the fact, especially when we consider the exceptionally mild yet very effective mandelic acid. Mandelic acid is derived from almonds, i.e. nuts with highly nutritive qualities, used in the kitchen to add that extra flavor to numerous dishes and foods, both sweet and savory, but also in the cosmetic industry where it is incorporated in formulas designed with problem-prone skin in mind, especially affected with excessive oiliness and acne.
Gentle and mild, yet intensely effective
Mandelic acid, a member of the group of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), is derived from bitter almonds. Its much-appreciated characteristics are now harnessed in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry for its potent antibacterial, exfoliating, and anti-aging potential. Its molecule size is larger than that of glycolic acid, hence its gentleness and safety for the skin. Specialists recommend its use for the care of sensitive, acne-prone, irritable, and very oily skin.
Mandelic acid penetrates the deeper layers of the epidermis gradually, thus delivering prompt effects without causing the skin’s discomfort. It is non-toxic and does not sensitize the skin to UV radiation, the latter making it the skin’s great friend both in winter and summer season.
Almond-based skincare for sensitive skin
The precious almond nut is recommended for acne-prone, oily, and combination skin. It helps exfoliate the corneous layer cells and prevents excessive horny buildup, restoring the skin’s natural glow. It helps unclog the pores making them less pronounced, and preventing black- and whiteheads. It also downregulates the activity of sebaceous glands smoothing and mattifying the epidermis. The acid also counteracts and reduces overpigmentation, evens out the skin’s tone, and plumps the skin. Additionally, it enhances the effect of active substances absorbed by the skin.
All these qualities make it a perfect match for the skin prone to oiliness, shininess, dark spots, and acne breakouts, as well as skin “simply” in need of revival.
Peel treatments and home-based therapy with mandelic acid
Beauty salons offer treatments based on mandelic acid, aimed at skin exfoliation, that is removing the buildup of dead skin cells accumulating on the skin’s surface. After the peel, the skin is visibly brighter and revived, and the large pores are noticeably smaller. The treatment also helps to reduce sebum secretion and even out the skin tone. Its soothing effect makes it perfect for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
For the optimum results of the treatment performed at a beauty salon, the therapy should be then continued at home with specially selected cosmetics. Arcana especially recommends the Acid Therapy MD duo. Mandelic Solution is a normalizing and gently exfoliating formula that preps the skin for the application of Mandelic Peel 50% which helps to maintain the results of the beauty salon peel treatment, and makes a great combination with Mandelic + Salicylic Purifying Cream which eliminates skin inflammation and shininess.
A blooming almond tree is traditionally the symbol of life’s renewal. Such gentle approach allows to revive the skin, rebuilding its structure and treating it to a whole new start. Mandelic acid may be your way of restoring the unique, natural, beautiful look and feel that were once perhaps lost due to inadequate or ill-matched skincare or harsh external conditions.
