For those who are trying to fade the effects of dark spots on face, uneven skin tone, repair sun damage, and trying to treat the inflammation that occurs with acne; chemical peels that use alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as a mandelic acid peel, can be quite effective. Mandelic acid, like glycolic and lactic acids, is an AHA that gently adheres to the skin in order to peel away dead and dying skin cells so that new cell growth is revealed and so that new skin cells grow faster.
After several treatments, a mandelic acid peel can fade dark spots and reduce the inflammation caused by acne. If you have been considering this type of AHA peel, you should understand how this ingredient may affect your skin, depending on its type and tone. For best results, mandelic acid peels should only be performed by a skin care professional or a dermatologist.
What You Need to Know About a Mandelic Acid Peel
A mandelic acid peel contains the AHA mandelic acid, which is derived and extracted from bitter almonds. However, it differs from glycolic and lactic acids in that its molecules are larger and do not penetrate the skin as deeply. As a result, there is less overall irritation when compared with other AHAs, which is beneficial for those who have sensitive skin that is prone to inflammation. In addition, mandelic acid has an antibacterial effect on the skin, which makes it a viable choice for those with acne-prone skin who want to have a chemical peel but are worried about clogged pores and irritation as a result. A mandelic acid peel is also a possible choice for those who have never had a chemical peel before and want results that are gentle on the skin.
What to Expect During a Mandelic Acid Peel
When you arrive , your face will be thoroughly cleansed, and the skin care professional may add a preparatory primer to your skin before they apply the peel. Depending on the skin care issue and your skin type, the mandelic acid peel will be left on your skin anywhere from five to fifteen minutes before it is removed. You may feel a warming sensation on your skin or you may feel nothing at all, depending on your skin’s sensitivity, but when the skin care professional removes the peel, you may notice that your skin looks pinker than usual. This is a normal reaction, as the mandelic acid peel has removed dead and dying skin cells from the surface of your skin that soap, water, and other cleansers cannot.
If you got a mandelic acid peel for acne, your acne symptoms may temporarily increase for a few days before the inflammation begins to subside and the skin heals. This usually happens because the exfoliating properties of the peel exposes acne that’s brewing underneath a layer of dead cells, which may briefly erupt before the antibacterial effects of the peel take effect. If you have concerns about any of the side effects you may experience after your mandelic acid peel, consult your dermatologist or the skin care professional who performed the peel.
Mandelic Acid Peel Side Effects
While there is little to no down time needed for a mandelic acid peel, you may notice mild stinging, itching, peeling, and flaking of the skin, particularly if you suffer from inflamed acne. However, these side effects are mild and only last two to three days. Not everyone will experience these mandelic acid peel side effects and their severity may be increased in those with sensitive skin.