Mandelic acid, also known as mandelate acid or 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, is a natural organic compound that is found in many fruits and vegetables. Lactic acid, on the other hand, is an industrial byproduct of lactic bacteria. Both of these acids have anti-aging benefits because they lower wrinkling, brighten skin tone and make your skin appear younger. However, it’s important to know which one is better for you because they both have their pros and cons. Read on to learn more about mandelic acid or lactic acid.
Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid, also known as mandelate acid or 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, is a natural organic compound that is found in many fruits and vegetables. It has been used for centuries in Europe as a treatment for acne due to its exfoliating properties. It’s also been found to lighten the texture of skin by dissolving melanin, the substance that makes skin dark. This is why you’ll find it in products like toning sugar scrubs and other exfoliating products. It has been shown in studies to improve signs of aging like wrinkles, dullness, and loss of skin elasticity. It’s especially great for hyperpigmentation like melasma, red marks, and acne scars.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid, also known as lactic acid or lactic acidosis, is an organic compound that is created by the fermentation of sugars by certain bacteria under anaerobic conditions. This means that it is not formed through photosynthesis. Lactic acid is a naturally occurring compound that occurs in certain fruits, such as sour lemons and sour grapes, as well as in fermented dairy products like yogurt and sour cream. You’ll also find it in the skin care industry. It has the ability to brighten skin tone and has anti-aging properties.
Which Is Better For You?
As we’ve seen, mandelic or lactic acid both have a lot of great benefits for your skin. One of the main concerns people have about using products with these acids is the risk of acne breakouts. Luckily, most products that contain one of these acids are formulated to be non-clogging and will not leave a build-up on your face. The best thing to do is to try a product before you buy a big tub to make sure it works for you. If you’re looking to buy a product that contains one of these acids, it’s important to look at the ingredients list to see if it’s included in the product.
Find Out More About Each Acid
Mandelic Acid
This is a naturally occurring organic compound that occurs in many fruits and vegetables. It has been used for centuries in Europe as a treatment for acne due to its exfoliating properties. It’s also been found to lighten the texture of skin by dissolving melanin, the substance that makes skin dark.
Lactic Acid
This is an organic compound that occurs naturally in many fruits like lemons and sour grapes. You’ll also find it in the skin care industry as it has the ability to brighten skin tone and has anti-aging properties.
Although both mandelic and lactic acids have great benefits for your skin, mandelic is a better choice for anti-aging because it has anti-inflammatory properties. This means it can help reduce lines and wrinkles, tighten skin, and reduce the look of acne. Lactic acid, on the other hand, will brighten your skin and reduce acne marks, but it won’t have anti-inflammatory properties. If you have oily skin, lactic acid is a better pick as it is less likely to make your skin more oily as compared to mandelic acid.
Final Words
In this article, we’ve explored how mandelic and lactic acids work and which one is better for you. We’ve also looked at what these acids are used for in products and what you can expect from them. As you can see, both of these acids have great benefits for your skin and are worth trying. Mandelic acid is a great choice if you want to improve wrinkles and wrinkles, reduce acne marks, and brighten your skin tone. Lactic acid is great for those who have oily skin as it is less likely to make your face more oily.
FAQ
1) Can you use mandelic acid everyday?
Mandelic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds. It’s known for its exfoliating properties and is generally considered safe for daily use. However, the frequency of use depends on your skin type and sensitivity. If you’re new to mandelic acid, start by using it every other day or twice a week, and gradually increase the frequency as your skin adjusts. If you experience irritation or redness, reduce the frequency of use. It’s always a good idea to patch test any new product before incorporating it into your daily routine.
2) Can I mix mandelic acid and retinol?
It’s generally not recommended to mix mandelic acid and retinol in the same skincare routine, as both ingredients are potent and may cause irritation. Instead, alternate their use by applying one in the morning and the other at night, or use them on different days. This will help minimize the risk of over-exfoliation and irritation. Remember to use sunscreen during the day, as both mandelic acid and retinol can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
3) Which is better: salicylic acid or mandelic acid?
Both salicylic acid and mandelic acid have their own unique benefits and are suitable for different skin types and concerns. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve oil and dead skin cells, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. Mandelic acid, on the other hand, is an AHA that gently exfoliates the skin’s surface, promoting cell turnover and helping with issues like fine lines, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Ultimately, the choice between salicylic acid and mandelic acid depends on your skin type and concerns. If you’re unsure, consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice.
4) Do you put lactic acid on before or after moisturizer?
Lactic acid is another AHA that provides gentle exfoliation and helps improve skin texture and tone. It’s best to apply lactic acid before your moisturizer, as this allows the acid to penetrate the skin more effectively. Here’s a general guideline for layering your skincare products:
Cleanser
Toner (if applicable)
Lactic acid (or other AHA/BHA treatment)
Serum
Moisturizer
Sunscreen (during the day)
Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, and the frequency and order of product application may vary. Always follow the instructions provided by the product manufacturer and consult a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice.
