Peer-reviewed research on Mandelic Acid, summarised in plain language. Every study links to its record on PubMed so you can read it yourself.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of topical pharmacological, oral pharmacological, physical and combined treatments for acne vulgaris.
The British journal of dermatology2022Meta-analysis35,000 participantsPositive
In a large review of many clinical trials, chemical peels such as mandelic acid appeared to help mild-to-moderate acne, but the evidence was very uncertain.
Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne.
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews2020Meta-analysis40 participantsNeutral
In 40 people with acne, a salicylic-mandelic acid peel worked about as well as a glycolic acid peel, but the evidence was low quality.
Evidence-based topical treatments (azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulfur, zinc, and fruit acid) for acne: an abridged version of a Cochrane systematic review.
Journal of evidence-based medicine2020Systematic review3,880 participantsNeutral
In a large review of 3880 people with acne, mandelic acid used with salicylic acid worked about as well as glycolic acid for clearing acne.
Chemical peels for acne vulgaris: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials.
BMJ open2018Systematic review387 participantsPositive
In a review of 387 people with acne, a peel with mandelic acid plus salicylic acid cleared acne better than glycolic acid.
Randomized prospective study of low-dose isotretinoin alone and combination with salicylic acid and mandelic peel against acne tarda.
Journal of cosmetic dermatology2022RCT58 participants10%Positive
In a 16-week clinical trial of 58 adults with acne, a peel with mandelic acid used with isotretinoin cleared acne better than isotretinoin alone.
Comparative study of efficacy and safety of 45% mandelic acid versus 30% salicylic acid peels in mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.
Journal of cosmetic dermatology2020RCT50 participants45%Positive
In a 12-week study of 50 people with mild-to-moderate acne, mandelic acid cleared acne about as well as salicylic acid and caused fewer side effects.
Combination chemical peels are more effective than single chemical peel in treatment of mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris: A split face comparative clinical trial.
Journal of cosmetic dermatology2018Clinical trial45 participants10%Positive
In a study of 45 people with mild-to-moderate acne, a peel with mandelic acid used with salicylic acid cleared acne better than salicylic acid alone.
Research context, not treatment advice. Studies are about the ingredient, not any one product.
Products we have confirmed contain Mandelic Acid, from their ingredient lists.
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