Mandelic Acid (Gentle AHA Exfoliant) - Essentially Natural

• INCI Name: Mandelic Acid
• Ingredient Type: AHA exfoliant
• Appearance: Powder
• pH: 2.3
• Formulation pH Range: Works best at pH 3 to 4
• Solubility: Water soluble when properly dissolved
  
• Sizes: 5g, 10g, 25g, 50g, 100g, 250g, 500g or 1kg

• Gentle chemical exfoliation in leave-on skincare
• Helping improve the look of uneven tone and texture over time
• Formulations intended for sensitive skin routines that need a milder AHA option
• Serums, toners, lotions, and gel-based exfoliating products where pH can be controlled

This product is suitable for:

• Formulators creating gentle exfoliating products for sensitive or reactive-feel skin
• Skin routines aiming for smoother texture and a more even-looking finish
• DIY makers comfortable working with pH-dependent actives

This product is not:

• Intended to be applied directly to skin as a raw powder
• Suitable for users who are not able to test and adjust final product pH
• Recommended for compromised or broken skin

• As a Water-Based Exfoliant Active: Dissolve in water first, then add during the cool down phase of your formulation.
• As a Leave-On Product Ingredient: Formulate to a final pH in the 3 to 4 range for effective AHA performance.
• Processing Tip: Mix thoroughly to ensure full dissolution and an even, uniform finished product.
• Processing Tip: Always verify final pH after combining ingredients, then adjust if needed using appropriate pH adjusters.

• For cosmetic use only
• Avoid inhaling powder and avoid contact with eyes
• Wear gloves and eye protection when handling raw acids
• Patch test finished products before full use
• AHA products can increase sun sensitivity, use daily sun protection when using exfoliating products
• Do not use on broken, irritated, or freshly shaved skin
• Keep out of reach of children

Q: Why is mandelic acid considered gentler than some other AHAs?
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.

Q: Does mandelic acid need pH control to work properly?
A: Yes, like other AHAs it performs best in a low pH formula, typically around pH 3 to 4.

Q: Can I add mandelic acid to an existing cream or toner?
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.

Q: Is mandelic acid the same as a physical scrub?
A: No, it exfoliates by helping loosen the look of surface buildup rather than using abrasive particles.

Q: Can sensitive skin use mandelic acid products daily?
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.