If you're a regular user of anti aging skin care products, then you are most likely familiar with the use of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as mandelic acid and malic acid. Often referred to as fruit acids because they widely found in fruits such as apples and oranges, AHAs act as topical exfoliants. They help to remove the top layer of dry, dead skin cells so that newer and healthier skin cells can shine through.
The more familiar AHAs include glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are found in a range of skin care products including cleansers, toners, moisturizers and serums. Both are highly effective and have been used for many years in skin care formulations. One of the advantages of glycolic acid is that it is a small molecule, which can easily penetrate skin. While this feature delivers efficacy, it can also make glycolic acid preparations irritating, especially if you have sensitive skin. In addition, the use of glycolic acid has been associated with the development of hyperpigmentation in individuals with darker skin, who are often more susceptible to this side effect.
Mandelic Acid and Malic Acid Are Safer Alternatives
Unlike other AHAs, mandelic and malic acids have a slightly larger molecular structure, which results in slower, more even penetration. This feature also helps to contribute to less irritation, allowing people who are normally unable to tolerate high concentrations of AHAs to enjoy their benefits. For this reason, you can expect to find these two gentle AHAs in a number of skin care formulations, including one recently introduced to the market - M2 Skin Care.
Mandelic acid is derived from almonds. It possesses antibacterial properties and also absorbs and controls oil. Since bacteria and excessive oil production are contributing factors for acne, this makes mandelic acid useful in the management of acne. The result is a reduction in the appearance of new, unwanted blemishes with less skin irritation. Skin is saved from redness and increased scarring.
Malic acid is a natural humectant, which draws moisture out of the dermis and into the epidermis. This helps keep the skin hydrated, without contributing to oiliness. An additional benefit of malic acid is its antioxidant properties, which help to fight free radicals that can contribute to skin damage. Like mandelic acid, malic acid is gentle, making it suitable for use on sensitive skin, even at high concentrations.
Benefits of Mandelic Acid and Malic Acid
When combined together, mandelic and malic acid can be used to improve skin in a number of ways:
- Even skin tone, reduce age spots & freckles
- Significantly reduce acne breakouts
- Tighten the skin & pores
- Reduce or erase fine lines & wrinkles
- Significantly reduce symptoms of rosacea
- Help fade signs of melasma
Skin will start to see significant improvement in clarity and color with a month of using mandelic and malic acids. Pigmented areas will be greatly improved and the overall texture of skin will be softer and smoother. After two months, the number of blemishes will significantly decrease. And if skin still experiences breakouts, then they will be greatly reduced in size. Marks from blemishes will vanish faster and darker pigmented areas will start to peel, leaving behind smoother, flawless skin.
As with the use of any AHA, both acids can increase skin's sensitivity to sunlight. For this reason, the use of a well-formulated broad spectrum UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is recommended for daily use.
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