you love the idea of exfoliating with alpha hydroxy acids but have
sensitive, easily offended skin, this is the formulation you’ve been
waiting for. Ingredients such as glycolic acid offer incredible
resurfacing powers, dissolving the bonds that bind dead, dulling cells
to your skin to uncover the smooth, even radiance beneath. However, this
can cause irritation – enter, mandelic acid. A gentler ‘peeling’ member
of the alpha hydroxy acid family, it penetrates the skin more slowly,
making it milder and better suited to sensitive complexions.
Alpha
hydroxy acids are a well-established skin care hero. Ingredients such a
glycolic, lactic and malic acid are renowned for their ability to
dissolve the skin’s dulling ‘stratum corneum’ (the oldest, thinnest, top
layer of skin) and reveal the younger, more radiant cells beneath.
However, these potent acids can irritate skin, especially sensitive
complexions – and that’s where The Ordinary’s Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
comes in. This innovative formulation offers superficial dermal peeling
(that’s exfoliation to you and me) that is gentler than other alpha
hydroxy acid formulations. How is it gentler, you ask? Simple – the
molecular weight of mandelic acid is larger than that of other alpha
hydroxy acids and this larger size means that it penetrates the skin
more slowly. This makes for a milder exfoliating experience that will
suit even the most sensitive complexions, leaving skin smoother, more
even and gorgeously glowing. The Ordinary’s (characteristically
ingenious) formulation also includes hyaluronic acid, to hydrate and
comfort skin while plumping away the look of fine lines. A must-have for
sensitive, reactive skin types.
HOW
TO USEApply once per day, ideally in the PM. Can be diluted with other
treatments to reduce strength until skin develops tolerance. Avoid
contact with eyes. If irritation persists, discontinue use and consult a
physician. Use only as directed. Contact of the product with the skin
must be of limited frequency or duration.
Sunburn
Alert: This product contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that may
increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the
possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and
limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.