What cannot be mixed with Mandelic Acid?
FAQ 2025-04-08
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Other Acids (e.g., Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Retinoic Acid)
Mixing mandelic acid with other acids can overly exfoliate the skin, leading to irritation, redness, dryness, or even chemical burns. High concentrations of acids may also disrupt the skin’s acid mantle, increasing sensitivity. -
Niacinamide
When combined with acidic ingredients like mandelic acid, niacinamide can hydrolyze into nicotinic acid, which may cause skin flushing, tingling, or irritation, especially in sensitive skin types. -
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
High concentrations of vitamin C are acidic and may destabilize mandelic acid, reducing the effectiveness of both ingredients. This combination can also increase the risk of skin irritation. -
Retinoids
Retinoids and mandelic acid both promote skin cell turnover. Using them together can intensify irritation, dryness, and peeling, particularly for sensitive or dry skin. -
Copper Peptides
Acidic environments can destabilize copper peptides, rendering them ineffective and potentially causing skin irritation. -
Certain Antioxidants
Acids may degrade the stability of some antioxidants, reducing their efficacy and potentially causing skin sensitivity. -
Physical Exfoliants
Combining chemical exfoliants like mandelic acid with physical exfoliants can over-exfoliate the skin, leading to irritation, inflammation, or damage to the skin barrier.
Additional Precautions
- Sun Sensitivity: Mandelic acid increases photosensitivity, so avoid combining it with ingredients that also heighten sun sensitivity (e.g., retinoids, certain essential oils).
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before introducing new products or combinations to check for adverse reactions.
- Consult a Professional: If unsure about compatibility, consult a dermatologist or skincare specialist for personalized advice.
