Mandelic Acid (Gentle AHA Exfoliant) - Essentially Natural

<p>
Essentially Natural Mandelic Acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) used to help exfoliate the skin’s surface for a
smoother, brighter-looking complexion. Because mandelic acid has a larger molecular structure than many other AHAs, it
tends to work more slowly and is often preferred in formulas designed for sensitive skin types. It is commonly used in
leave-on exfoliating products where careful pH control is important.
</p>
<p>
Learn how to formulate with mandelic acid here: 
<a href="https://essentiallynatural.co.za/blogs/formulating-with-series/formulating-with-mandelic-acid">
Formulating With Mandelic Acid
</a>
<br>
</p>
<p>
Also available in 
<a title="Mandelic Acid - Sample Size (2g)" href="https://essentiallynatural.co.za/products/limited-edition-mandelic-acid-sample-size-2g">
Sample Sizes.
</a>
</p>
<h4>Key Properties</h4>
<ul>
<li>INCI Name: Mandelic Acid</li>
<li>Ingredient Type: AHA exfoliant</li>
<li>Appearance: Powder</li>
<li>pH: 2.3</li>
<li>Formulation pH Range: Works best at pH 3 to 4</li>
<li>
Solubility: Water soluble when properly dissolved
<br>
</li>
<li>Sizes: 5g, 10g, 25g, 50g, 100g, 250g, 500g or 1kg</li>
</ul>
<h4>What It’s Used For</h4>
<ul>
<li>Gentle chemical exfoliation in leave-on skincare</li>
<li>Helping improve the look of uneven tone and texture over time</li>
<li>Formulations intended for sensitive skin routines that need a milder AHA option</li>
<li>Serums, toners, lotions, and gel-based exfoliating products where pH can be controlled</li>
</ul>
<h4>Who It’s For</h4>
<p>This product is suitable for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Formulators creating gentle exfoliating products for sensitive or reactive-feel skin</li>
<li>Skin routines aiming for smoother texture and a more even-looking finish</li>
<li>DIY makers comfortable working with pH-dependent actives</li>
</ul>
<p>This product is not:</p>
<ul>
<li>Intended to be applied directly to skin as a raw powder</li>
<li>Suitable for users who are not able to test and adjust final product pH</li>
<li>Recommended for compromised or broken skin</li>
</ul>
<h4>How To Use</h4>
<ul>
<li>
As a Water-Based Exfoliant Active: Dissolve in water first, then add during the cool down phase of your formulation.
</li>
<li>As a Leave-On Product Ingredient: Formulate to a final pH in the 3 to 4 range for effective AHA performance.</li>
<li>Processing Tip: Mix thoroughly to ensure full dissolution and an even, uniform finished product.</li>
<li>
Processing Tip: Always verify final pH after combining ingredients, then adjust if needed using appropriate pH
adjusters.
</li>
</ul>
<h4>Safety Instructions</h4>
<ul>
<li>For cosmetic use only</li>
<li>Avoid inhaling powder and avoid contact with eyes</li>
<li>Wear gloves and eye protection when handling raw acids</li>
<li>Patch test finished products before full use</li>
<li>AHA products can increase sun sensitivity, use daily sun protection when using exfoliating products</li>
<li>Do not use on broken, irritated, or freshly shaved skin</li>
<li>Keep out of reach of children</li>
</ul>
<h4>FAQs</h4>
<p>
Q: Why is mandelic acid considered gentler than some other AHAs?
<br>
A: Mandelic acid has a larger molecular structure, so it tends to work more slowly on the skin surface and is often
chosen for sensitive skin formulations.
</p>
<p>
Q: Does mandelic acid need pH control to work properly?
<br>
A: Yes, like other AHAs it performs best in a low pH formula, typically around pH 3 to 4.
</p>
<p>
Q: Can I add mandelic acid to an existing cream or toner?
<br>
A: It is best incorporated during formulation so it can dissolve properly and the final pH can be tested and adjusted
for safety and performance.
</p>
<p>
Q: Is mandelic acid the same as a physical scrub?
<br>
A: No, it exfoliates by helping loosen the look of surface buildup rather than using abrasive particles.
</p>
<p>
Q: Can sensitive skin use mandelic acid products daily?
<br>
A: Many people prefer it for sensitive routines, but frequency depends on the final formula and skin response, start
slowly and adjust based on comfort.
</p>