When battling skin dullness or redness, chemical peels may be one of the first treatments that come to mind. Some medium-level peels can be too aggressive for sensitive skin or darker skin tones, while other peel treatments don’t actually reduce skin redness. Luckily, The Dermatology Clinic offers a delicate peel that can rejuvenate and nourish a variety of skin types. If you’re looking for a more natural, gentler skin rejuvenation treatment, a mandelic acid peel may be the peel for you.

What Does Mandelic Acid Do for the Skin?

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is extracted from bitter almonds. Naturally occurring AHAs have an exfoliating effect that loosens connections between surface skin cells, allowing them to shed to reveal a more refreshed layer of skin. Though several types of AHAs are used in cosmetic facial treatments, mandelic acid peels are designed to specifically treat skin prone to redness or rosacea and help improve color and texture while minimizing pore size. Here are some other benefits of mandelic acid peels:

• Mandelic acid penetrates the skin more slowly than other peels, making it less irritating to the skin.
• As a chemical exfoliant, mandelic acid removes dead skin cells and accelerates cell turnover to help reduce the appearance of skin damage and acne. These exfoliating properties will also help reduce hyperpigmentation in cases of sun damage or rosacea.
• It penetrates deeper into pores than other acids to help clear blemishes.

How Often Should You Use Mandelic Acid Peels?

Professional peels use higher concentrations of mandelic acid that should only be applied by a licensed dermatologist or aesthetician. Depending on your skin type, you can schedule a mandelic peel weekly.

While at-home products with lower concentrations of acid can be applied several times a week, having a professional apply the peel can help produce more effective results and ensure a smoother recovery.

Is Mandelic Acid Better Than Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is another popular AHA that is widely found in over-the-counter skincare products. Glycolic acid can be more irritating than mandelic acid because its smaller molecular weight allows it to penetrate the skin quickly and more easily.

Get help with excessive redness and uneven skin texture with mandelic acid peel treatments from The Dermatology Clinic. Our dermatologists and aestheticians offer cosmetic and dermatology services to patients throughout the Baton Rouge community. Schedule your appointment with us today to develop a detailed skincare plan.