Mandelac Facewash
Mandelac Facewash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-recommended gel cleanser with 3% Mandelic Acid that gently exfoliates, fights acne, and fades dark spots and post-acne marks. Formulated specifically for oily, acne-prone, and hyperpigmented skin without stripping your moisture barrier.
Gentle AHA Exfoliation
3% Mandelic Acid gently dissolves dead skin cells and unclogs pores without over-stripping, thanks to its larger molecular size compared to glycolic acid.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle AHA Exfoliation
3% Mandelic Acid gently dissolves dead skin cells and unclogs pores without over-stripping, thanks to its larger molecular size compared to glycolic acid.
Fights Acne & Bacteria
Mandelic acid's antibacterial properties target acne-causing bacteria on the skin surface while reducing inflammation and redness associated with breakouts.
Fades Dark Spots & PIH
Clinically proven to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, and uneven skin tone by accelerating cell turnover and brightening the complexion.
Barrier-Friendly Cleansing
Sulfate-free surfactants like Decyl Glucoside and Cocamidopropyl Betaine cleanse effectively without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Mandelic Acid (AHA). While generally considered one of the gentler AHAs with low systemic absorption, consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy. Most dermatologists consider low-concentration mandelic acid acceptable, but opinions vary.
Contains Polyacrylamide (may include trace C13-14 Isoparaffin) and Fragrance. While the formula is oil-free and wash-off, those with severe fungal acne should patch test. Most ingredients are FA-safe.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Mandelic acid has the largest molecular size among common AHAs, meaning it penetrates more slowly and causes less irritation than glycolic or lactic acid. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 40+ the following day. Jenpharm recommends pairing with Spectra Matt SC 40 sunscreen.
Free from parabens, sulfates, harsh alcohols, silicones, oils, and common allergens. Uses gentle preservatives (Phenoxyethanol + Caprylyl Glycol).
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMandelic Acid 3%Proven
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Its larger molecular size (compared to glycolic acid) means slower, gentler penetration — making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Provides exfoliation, antibacterial action, and brightening in one ingredient.
- Acne: A 2019 clinical study found 45% mandelic acid peels equally effective as 30% salicylic acid peels for acne, with fewer side effects.
- Hyperpigmentation: Shown to reduce melasma and PIH by accelerating cell turnover without triggering melanotoxicity.
- Antibacterial: Disrupts acne-causing bacteria on the skin surface, reducing inflammatory lesions.
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant naturally found in the skin. Draws moisture into the outer layer of skin and helps maintain the lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state, preventing the dryness that AHA cleansers can sometimes cause.
- Hydration: Effective from as low as 3%, with increasing benefits for dry skin at higher concentrations up to 20-40%.
- Barrier repair: Helps restore and protect the skin barrier, reducing irritation from active ingredients.
Aloe Vera Extract <1%Promising
A soothing botanical extract known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-calming properties. Helps counteract potential irritation from the mandelic acid component and leaves skin feeling refreshed.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains acemannan and other polysaccharides that help reduce redness and calm irritated skin.
- Wound healing: Supports skin's natural repair process, beneficial for post-acne skin recovery.
Decyl Glucoside + Cocamidopropyl Betaine Surfactant SystemProven
A gentle, sulfate-free surfactant duo. Decyl Glucoside is a glucose-based cleanser gentle enough for baby products. Cocamidopropyl Betaine (derived from coconut) stabilizes foam and improves cleansing while remaining mild on the skin barrier.
- Gentle cleansing: Both surfactants are biodegradable and rated among the mildest available, significantly less stripping than SLS/SLES.
- Foam stability: Creates a satisfying lather without the harshness of traditional sulfate-based cleansers.
Gelidium Corneum Beads <1%Eco-Friendly
Natural seaweed-derived micro-exfoliating beads that provide gentle physical exfoliation alongside the chemical exfoliation from mandelic acid. Biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternative to microplastic beads.
- Dual exfoliation: Combines physical and chemical exfoliation for enhanced skin smoothing and pore-unclogging.
- Eco-friendly: Made from red algae (seaweed), fully biodegradable and ocean-safe.
15 ingredients
Deionized Water, Disodium EDTA, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Decyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polyacrylamide, Polyquaternium-11, Gelidium Corneum Beads, Mandelic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum (Fragrance).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM as your first cleansing step. Follow with MandelAC Serum (PM only) and Dermive Oil Free Moisturizer for a complete anti-acne routine. Always apply SPF 40+ in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face and neck to prepare the skin for cleansing.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a small amount of MandelAC Facewash onto your palm. A little goes a long way with this concentrated gel formula.
Massage & Lather
Gently massage onto your face and neck in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, allowing the mandelic acid to work. Build a light lather.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pat dry gently — do not rub. Follow with your serum or moisturizer on slightly damp skin.
Apply Sunscreen (Morning)
Since mandelic acid increases sun sensitivity, always follow your morning routine with SPF 40 or higher to protect your skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin and need a gentle exfoliating cleanser
- You struggle with post-acne dark spots, PIH, or uneven skin tone
- You want an AHA cleanser that won't over-dry or irritate your skin
- You deal with melasma or freckles and want gradual brightening
- You prefer a sulfate-free, paraben-free formula
- You want a budget-friendly dermatologist-recommended option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs a non-exfoliating cleanser
- You are already using multiple exfoliating acids (retinol + BHA + AHA)
- You have an active skin infection, open wounds, or severely compromised barrier
- You are allergic to almonds (mandelic acid is derived from bitter almonds)
- You want a completely fragrance-free formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily skin. Mandelic acid helps regulate sebum production while the oil-free gel formula cleanses without adding shine or residue.
Antibacterial mandelic acid targets acne-causing bacteria, unclogs pores, and reduces inflammation. Non-comedogenic formula won't trigger new breakouts.
Works well on the oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Glycerin and aloe vera help balance hydration across different zones of the face.
Mandelic acid is the gentlest common AHA due to its large molecular size. Start every other day and build up tolerance. Contains fragrance — patch test first.
Not the best match for dry skin types. The exfoliating action may increase dryness. If used, always follow with a rich moisturizer and limit use to once daily.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Initial Cleansing & Mild Purging
Skin may feel cleaner and fresher immediately. Some users experience a mild purging phase as clogged pores begin to clear. Slight tingling on first use is normal.
85% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Breakouts & Improved Texture
Active acne starts to diminish as the antibacterial action takes effect. Skin texture begins to feel smoother as dead skin cell buildup is progressively removed.
96% reported reduced post-acne marksDark Spots Fading & Even Tone
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots start to visibly lighten. Overall skin tone becomes more even and radiant with consistent twice-daily use.
99% agreed dark spots were reducedLong-Term Clarity & Glow
With continued use, skin maintains a clearer, brighter baseline. Pores appear minimized. Melasma and stubborn pigmentation continue to improve over time.
95% agreed skin tone and texture was more evenRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Very affordable price point for an AHA cleanser (~$3.50 USD for 100ml)
- Gentle enough for daily use on most skin types
- Visibly reduces dark spots and post-acne marks over time
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, oil-free, silicone-free formula
- Contains eco-friendly seaweed beads for dual exfoliation
- Dermatologist recommended — Pakistan's top-selling anti-acne face wash
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped after use
- Short, clean ingredient list (only 15 ingredients)
Criticized
- Contains added fragrance (Parfum) which some sensitive users prefer to avoid
- Only 100ml tube size — runs out relatively quickly with twice-daily use
- May cause mild dryness or peeling during the first week of use
- Results require consistent use over 3-4 weeks before visible changes
- Limited international availability — primarily sold in Pakistan
- Contains Polyacrylamide which may concern fungal acne sufferers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses Salicylic Acid (BHA) instead of Mandelic Acid (AHA). Includes ceramides for barrier repair. Better for blackheads/whiteheads, but less effective for hyperpigmentation than mandelic acid.
A leave-on toner (not a cleanser) with stronger exfoliation from glycolic acid. More intense results but higher irritation risk. Different product format requires additional cleanser in routine.
Uses BHA (Betaine Salicylate) at a lower concentration. Less exfoliating power but very gentle. No brightening benefit for dark spots. Popular K-beauty option for mild acne.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
M.A.D Mandelic Refining Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
Opaque squeeze tube with flip-cap lid
Yes, 100ml — compliant with airline carry-on liquid limits
Frequently asked questions
FAQMandelic acid is generally considered one of the safest AHAs during pregnancy due to its larger molecular size and minimal systemic absorption. Many dermatologists approve low-concentration mandelic acid (like this 3% wash-off formula) for pregnant women. However, some sources recommend avoiding all AHAs during pregnancy as a precaution. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Most ingredients in this formula are fungal acne safe — it's oil-free, contains no ferments, fatty acids, or polysorbates. However, it does contain Polyacrylamide (which may include trace amounts of C13-14 Isoparaffin) and Fragrance. Since this is a wash-off product with short skin contact time, the risk is lower. Those with severe fungal acne should patch test first or consult a dermatologist.
Use caution when layering actives. You can use MandelAC Facewash alongside retinol, but apply retinol at a different time (e.g., facewash AM, retinol PM). Avoid using additional AHA/BHA exfoliants at the same time to prevent over-exfoliation. Vitamin C can be used in the morning routine after cleansing. Jenpharm recommends using Vitamin C in AM and MandelAC Serum in PM on alternating nights.
MandelAC Facewash is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin types. It also works well for combination skin and those with hyperpigmented skin. Sensitive skin types can use it but should start slowly (every other day). Dry skin types may find it too drying for daily use — if so, limit to once daily or every other day and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Most users notice cleaner, fresher-feeling skin within the first week. Visible reduction in active breakouts typically begins around weeks 2-3. Significant improvement in dark spots, post-acne marks, and skin tone usually takes 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Full results for hyperpigmentation and melasma may take 2-3 months of regular twice-daily application.
MandelAC Facewash is your first step — use it as your cleanser both morning and evening. After cleansing, follow with toner (optional), then serum (MandelAC Serum in PM), moisturizer (Dermive Oil Free Moisturizer works well), and sunscreen (SPF 40+ in the morning). It replaces your regular cleanser in the routine.
No. MandelAC Facewash has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 — it is non-comedogenic. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, mandelic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. Glycerin (comedogenic rating: 0) and the gentle surfactant system further ensure this product won't contribute to clogged pores.
MandelAC Facewash has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 100ml tube typically lasts 6-8 weeks with twice-daily use (pea-sized amount each time). Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place and keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the mandelic acid from light degradation.
Verdict: MandelAC Facewash by Jenpharm delivers an exceptional value proposition — a dermatologist-recommended, 3% mandelic acid cleanser at a fraction of the cost of international alternatives. It excels at gently exfoliating, fighting acne, and fading dark spots without stripping the skin, backed by a clean sulfate-free and paraben-free formula. The only drawbacks are the added fragrance and limited international availability. For oily, acne-prone, and hyperpigmented skin types on a budget, this is one of the best mandelic acid cleansers you can find. Pair it with a good SPF and moisturizer for optimal results.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|