As I researched these two acids, I found that they are both recommended for people with sensitive and dry skin. 🙂
This prompted me to write a blog about the differences between mandelic acid vs lactic acid to inform you that they are probably some of the gentlest acids available out there among chemical exfoliators. Not only are they gentle on the skin, but one of them even contains hydrating properties which help hydrate the skin! Don’t worry guys we will explain this in more detail in this post. 🙂
We will examine the molecular structure and function of both agents, their similarities, and the differences. We will also assist you in choosing the appropriate exfoliant for you and what you might want to start with if you are new to exfoliants. 😉
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Mandelic acid
Mandelic acid comes from bitter almonds and is an alpha-hydroxy acid. It is one of the gentlest AHAs, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. The product penetrates less deeply into the skin, making it gentler, but less effective.
Rather than going into details about this type of acid, I’ll summarise it and give you the key points/aspects you should know. For more information about this acid, check out this post here where I explain it more in-depth.
Besides, some people are unable to tolerate other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as lactic acid, and can benefit from Mandelic acid.
Mandelic acid offers a wide range of skin benefits. some of its benefits when used over time include:
The benefits of mandelic acid usually build over time, but they penetrate slowly at first.
For mandelic acid to be effective, you have to use it long-term.
Lactic acid
The alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) lactic acid is naturally present in sour milk and sour cream. Lactic acid exfoliates the skin when incorporated into skincare.
To get rid of dry dull surface skin, it loosens the bonds that hold dead skin cells together.
The benefits that lactic acid offers to the skin are the following:
Related:
*AHA 30-BHA 2 peeling solution vs Lactic Acid
*Salicylic acid and Lactic acid together: is that possible?
Mandelic Acid vs Lactic Acid: The differences & similarities
Similarities
Mandelic acid and lactic acid are both water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that help promote cell turnover and help give your skin a smoother and brighter appearance. In addition to brighter skin, chemical exfoliation can improve the appearance of skin tone and promote a more youthful appearance.
Listing their similarities, they are both:
- Part of AHAs
- Chemical exfoliators
They are both beneficial for issues such as:
- Fight acne
- Hyperpigmentation
- Reduces fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Brightens the skin
- Help even skin tone and texture
Differences
Mandelic “mandelic” and “lactic” acids are the most popular chemical exfoliating agents for topical skincare products. Their molecular structures and potential effects on skin and underlying tissues are different.
Indeed, there is a difference in the size of the molecules and the depth to which they penetrate the skin.
The exfoliating properties of both lactic acid and mandelic acid are beneficial for fading age spots, dark spots, and uneven pigmentation. Since lactic acid is a smaller molecule, it will penetrate the surface deeper, which means it will exfoliate better. Depending on the concentration, lactic acid may have more side effects, but it will give you better results for hyperpigmentation than mandelic acid.
Which one should you consider?
They are both gentle exfoliators/acids. However, aside from your skincare goals, many would suggest that your skin type will determine which ingredient is right for you.
Mandelic acid:
If you have sensitive skin, mandelic Acid will be the best choice since it has a larger molecule size. Because of its larger size, it will penetrate less deeply, causing less irritation. Especially if you suffer from acne-prone skin, mandelic acid is a better choice when it comes to mild exfoliation. The ordinary mandelic acid 10% HA is a good start if you have very sensitive skin! Other than its gentle formula with a concentration of 10%, it also contains hyaluronic acid which helps hydrate the skin. 🙂
Lactic acid:
It is better to use lactic acid for stronger exfoliation if your skin is tolerant and not overly sensitive. It can be sensitive, but it’s preferable if it’s not too much. But again, this depends on each individual, and everyone’s skin might react differently to the product, regardless of whether they have sensitive skin.
Furthermore, lactic acid moisturises the skin while it exfoliates, making it a better choice for people with dry skin.
If that sounds like you then you should check out the ordinary not only does it contain a small percentage of acid but it also contains HA which helps keep moisture in the skin.
The Ordinary Lactic acid 5% + HA 2% superficial peeling is a mild lactic acid superficial peeling formula. The 5% formulation reduces inflammation and sensitivity associated with exfoliation through the use of purified Tasmanian pepper berries.
For a more effective and stronger percentage, the brand also offers the Ordinary lactic acid 10% + HA 2% superficial peeling formulation! This one contains a higher percentage which means that it will be more effective. 🙂
Is it OK to use them at the same time?
Ideally, they should not be used at the same time since they are both AHAs.
Unless you’re using a product specially formulated to incorporate the correct amount of both mandelic acid and lactic acid, you shouldn’t mix the two.
They can, however, be used separately.
Based on the concentration of your products, you can use them daily or every other day. It is recommended to start slowly and then gradually increase the frequency as your skin becomes accustomed to the product. You should avoid overusing AHAs since they can irritate your skin if used too frequently.
How and what to avoid when using them?
Since lactic acid and mandelic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, you should use them at night. They should also not be used together with other powerful actives, such as retinol, pure vitamin C, or alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid.
As part of the same family of acids, glycolic acid gives similar results as both mandelic acid and lactic acid, but it shouldn’t be combined with either. However, if you aren’t seeing results, you can try glycolic acid (instead of mandelic or lactic acid). The one that many recommend is the Ordinary Glycolic acid 7% toning solution. If it does not work for your skin face, it may also work wonders for your armpits, more on that in future posts.
It has been suggested that if you have dry, highly-sensitive skin, there’s a great chance glycolic acid might irritate your skin.
We should note that everyone’s skin is different and different people have/experience different reactions or experiences and what might work for you or me might not work for someone else.
While these products should be included in your skincare routine for added benefits, you shouldn’t mix them directly.
Also, make sure you use sunscreen while using mandelic acid or lactic acid to prevent your skin from ageing due to harmful rays.
What should you be aware of?
Neither product should be used on compromised or peeling skin or active acne. To build a tolerance for these products, you can dilute serums with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid if your skin becomes flaky, red, or irritated. It is also possible to reduce the frequency of use.
The Ordinary Lactic acid 5% + HA 2% superficial peeling is the perfect option if you are opting for this alternative. 🙂
As we have seen, both lactic acid and mandelic acid are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that offer anti-ageing and exfoliating properties. Despite their similarities in this aspect, they also differ.
Lactic acid is more effective than mandelic acid because it is a more potent ingredient. And since lactic acid penetrates more deeply, it can be more effective, but it can also cause skin irritation. For sensitive or irritation-prone skin, mandelic acid is the best option. mandelic acid does not penetrate as much as lactic acid would.
The effectiveness of mandelic acid however may be increased if you combine it with other acids that are well tolerated by your skin.
Choose mandelic acid if you have sensitive skin. Consider lactic acid if you don’t have sensitive skin and aren’t seeing the results you want with mandelic acid. Hope you have learnt from this post 🙂 If you have any question, drop them down below 😉
