Can You use Mandelic Acid in The Winter?

When it comes to skincare routines, it is always a good idea to have one solely for Summer and another for the Winter months. With the change in temperature, weather, and altering exposure to sunlight, to ensure your skin remains at its healthiest state making a seasonal switch is the way forward.

Although it may feel daunting at first, once you have a clear understanding of which ingredients to avoid and which to apply, it will become a simple task with maximum results. But, before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s first explore how some ingredients work for the skin throughout the year and whether we should tuck them away as temperatures begin to creep up. Mandelic acid is going to be the focus of today’s blog post and by the end you will have a better understanding of the active and whether its beneficial to use mandelic acid in the winter.

This next part we will be sharing the benefits of this clever powerhouse, so if you are already clued up with mandelic acid and the results it delivers, you can skip to the next section.

What is Mandelic Acid?

• Derived from bitter almonds and is a member of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family.
• There is still ongoing research being carried out on how effective the acid is on the skin.
• Considered to be one of the gentlest acids and can often be used by those with a skin type that is prone to sensitivity.
• Thought to be beneficial for the skin to combat acne, uneven skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and premature signs of ageing.
• Helps to accelerate the skin cell turnover and exfoliates the layer of dead skin cells found on the top surface of skin.
• Helps to boost the production of collagen ensuring the skin appears plumper, firmer, with a youthful bounce.
• Regulates the production of sebum, whilst reducing acne caused by skin inflammations.
• Helps to improve the skin tone and lightens areas of hyperpigmentation, dark spots and melasma.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.

There you have some examples of how mandelic acid works and the benefits you can expect when using mandelic acid, don’t forget if you wanted to learn more about how this ingredient works, check out our blog post about how often you can use mandelic acid.  

When should you not use mandelic acid?

Mandelic acid is one of the gentlest acids and with this it often means you can team it with other actives without the worry of causing any irritation or reaction to the skin. This also means you will find you are able to use it on a daily basis.

If you are wanting to use mandelic acid in a professional peel or treatment, then this is when you need stop your daily application of mandelic acid enriched products and instead wait until you have had your treatment.

Another thing you need to remain mindful of is ensuring you keep the skin protected from UV exposure and other oxidised damage caused from sunlight, pollution, and other environmental aggressors. Therefore, it is important to apply a daily SPF to keep the skin fully protected from sunlight and harsh climates.

Does mandelic acid cause sun sensitivity?

Yes, it can, as mandelic acid is an exfoliant and works at sloughing away the build-up of dead skin cells it often means the acid can cause increased sensitivity to the sun. This sensitivity can create several concerns such as stinging, burning, itching, and breakouts on the skin surface.

To ensure you are protecting the skin from further damage caused by free radicals and other environmental stresses apply a daily SPF of 30. You can also try applying your mandelic acid product in the evening to avoid any contact with UV light allowing the acid to work at reviving the complexion whilst you catch up on your beauty sleep.

If you have a skin type prone to extreme sensitivity and dryness, I advise you seek the help from your doctor or dermatologist before using any new products or formulations on the skin.

Is it OK to use mandelic acid every day?

Yes, you can, but only after you have built your skin’s tolerance to the active. As I have already mentioned mandelic acid is one of the gentlest acids exfoliants, but this doesn’t mean it’ll be beneficial for everyone.

To start off with I would suggest using a low percentage formula once a day. Keeping an eye on how your skin feels will also help you determine whether this is the best ingredient for you. You can then apply it to the skin twice a day not forgetting to team it with a daily sunscreen. If you are wanting to use a stronger formula you can also opt for a treatment, such as a facial or chemical peel performed by a professional. This usually contains higher percentages of mandelic acid and will often require some downtime for the skin with liberal amounts of hyaluronic acid and limited sun exposure in your aftercare.

Can I use mandelic acid in the summer?

Yes, you can, but as I have already said, like any acid exfoliant you will find the skin become increasingly sensitive and if you do not take the proper precautions, further damage can occur on the skin. Therefore, I have expressed the importance of daily sunscreen, even on days that are overcast and gloomy. This will keep the skin protected from both UVA and UVB rays as well as other free radicals such as pollution, central heating, smoking, harsh climates, and other environmental skin stresses. 

What should you not mix mandelic acid with?

It is advised to avoid using any form of retinol with mandelic acid, this is because it will be too much stimulation for the skin. This may result in it being stripped of the sebum and water needed to keep the lipid barrier healthy and strong. If you are on the run up to receiving a mandelic acid chemical peel, it is strongly advised to avoid using retinol products for the week before your treatment as this can cause unwanted results.

So, I hope that today has answered a few of your questions about mandelic acid and using it in the winter. Don’t forget to come and follow us on Instagram for more skincare tips, exclusive discounts, and product launches.