The INKEY List mandelic acid: what it does and how to use it

What does mandelic acid do?

Mandelic acid exfoliates more gently than glycolic acid because its larger molecules work closer to the skin's surface. The treatment targets hyperpigmentation, meaning darkened patches of skin, and marks left after blemishes. The INKEY List positions it for all skin types, including sensitive skin.12

For very sensitive skin, general acid guidance is to introduce exfoliation slowly and use it less frequently, or avoid exfoliating acids. A product described as gentle is still an exfoliating treatment.2

How do you use Mandelic Acid Treatment?

1. 1Cleanse your skin in the evening.
2. 2Gently pat a thin layer of Mandelic Acid Treatment onto the affected areas.
3. 3Use sunscreen the following morning because the treatment can increase sun sensitivity.

Will it fade marks or repair acne scars?

Dark marks after a breakout are different from depressed or raised scars. True scars involve damage in the dermis, the deeper layer of skin: too little collagen during healing can leave depressions, while too much can create raised scars. Mandelic Acid Treatment targets the appearance of pigmentation and blemish marks. Do not expect a surface treatment to restore every scar to its original appearance.1

Avoid picking or over exfoliating marked areas, which can irritate them and make them worse. Unprotected sun exposure can darken marks and make them linger longer. Use broad spectrum sunscreen as the last step of your morning routine.1

What is The INKEY List polyglutamic acid?

Mandelic Acid Treatment and Polyglutamic Acid Serum do different jobs, despite skincare naming them as if they belong in the same filing cabinet. Polyglutamic acid is a hydrator that locks in moisture, not an exfoliating acid.2

The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid Serum contains a 3% polyglutamic acid complex and 2% Invisaskin. It targets dehydration and uneven texture, with a silky, lightweight finish that absorbs quickly. It softens the appearance of surface lines immediately; the brand gives up to six weeks of consistent use for results.34

Use Polyglutamic Acid Serum morning and evening as your last serum before moisturizer. Pat a pea sized amount onto your face and neck after your hydrating serum. If you use hyaluronic acid, apply it first, then polyglutamic acid. Finish your morning routine with sunscreen.56

The brand also suggests using Polyglutamic Acid Serum as a primer or mixing it into foundation, giving a skincare bottle a second job without changing its name.3

The INKEY List lists Polyglutamic Acid Serum as suitable for sensitive skin, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and recommends patch testing before adding it. The serum can be layered with exfoliating acids and retinol. Check with your doctor before combining it with prescription products. These suitability directions apply to Polyglutamic Acid Serum, not Mandelic Acid Treatment.356