8% L-Mandelic Serum

Face Reality Mandelic Serum is a chirally correct alpha-hydroxy acid serum formulated to treat acne, folliculitis, and post-acne hyperpigmentation while resurfacing and evening out skin tone. It pairs L-mandelic acid and L-lactic acid with niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate, delivering meaningful exfoliation without the sting and redness that often come with smaller-molecule acids like glycolic acid.

Exfoliates without triggering sensitivity: You get effective resurfacing with far less irritation thanks to L-mandelic acid, whose larger molecular size penetrates more slowly and evenly than glycolic or salicylic acid.

Fades dark spots and post-acne marks: Mandelic and lactic acids interrupt excess melanin production and speed up cell turnover, visibly reducing hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory marks, and sun damage over time.

Clears and refines congested pores: Regular use dissolves the dead cell buildup behind clogged pores, blackheads, and comedonal acne, leaving skin smoother and clearer.

Treats acne and folliculitis: Mandelic acid carries antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it uniquely suited to both acne and folliculitis, which most standard AHAs do not address.

Hydrates and strengthens while it exfoliates: Sodium hyaluronate pulls moisture into the skin and niacinamide supports the barrier, so your complexion stays balanced instead of tight or reactive during active exfoliation

Face Reality Mandelic Serum is ideal for oily, combination, and normal skin dealing with active acne, post-acne hyperpigmentation, folliculitis, or uneven texture. If you have tried other AHA serums and found them too harsh, mandelic acid is the logical next step because the larger molecule delivers results without the same level of skin disruption.

Dry and sensitive skin types can benefit too, but should begin with the lowest strength and introduce the serum slowly. Layering a hydrating product underneath before application helps buffer the acid and keeps skin comfortable during the adjustment period.

Available in 5%, 8%, 11%, and 15% strengths, it lets you progress gradually as your skin builds tolerance. The 5%, 8%, and 11% are intended for the face, while the 15% is formulated for body use unless your esthetician directs otherwise

Prepare: Cleanse and tone thoroughly. Skin should be clean and free of any residue that could interfere with acid penetration.

Apply: Dispense 1 pump and apply evenly to the face or affected areas. Use only the 5%, 8%, or 11% concentrations on the face. The 15% is intended for the body unless otherwise directed by your esthetician.

Technique: Allow the serum to dry completely before layering moisturizer on top. Do not rinse off. Applying moisturizer before the serum has fully dried can dilute the acid and reduce its effectiveness.

Frequency: Use once or twice daily as directed by your esthetician or AOS Acne Specialist. Always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher in the morning, as AHA use increases sun sensitivity

Key ingredients:

• Mandelic Acid: A gentle, larger-molecule AHA that exfoliates at a slower rate than other acids, making it especially effective at targeting acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) while remaining tolerable for sensitized skin.

• Lactic Acid: A mild exfoliating AHA that smooths texture while also helping to increase the skin's natural levels of glycosaminoglycans, supporting hydration and barrier health.

• Sodium Hyaluronate: The purest, salt form of hyaluronic acid, a master humectant that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water to provide maximum hydration and plumping benefits to thirsty skin.

• Niacinamide: A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that helps balance oil, strengthen the skin barrier, and improve uneven tone and texture while calming redness for healthier looking skin.

Full ingredients:

Aqua (Water), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Mandelic Acid (L) 8%, Alcohol, Lactic Acid (L) 4%, Butylene Glycol, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Alcohol Denat., Niacinamide, Sodium Lactate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium PCA, Sodium Hyaluronate (L), Urea, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Sorbate

Available for in-studio pickup only. No shipping.

Do I need to wear sunscreen while using Face Reality Mandelic Serum? Yes, daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential. AHA exfoliation increases your skin's sensitivity to UV light, so sunscreen protects your results and prevents new hyperpigmentation from forming. Applying SPF every morning is especially important while you are actively fading dark spots with Face Reality Mandelic Serum.

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