Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective 10% mandelic acid exfoliating serum that improves skin clarity, texture, and tone. Formulated with hyaluronic acid for hydration and Tasmanian Pepperberry to reduce irritation—ideal for sensitive skin and AHA beginners.
Gentle Exfoliation
Mandelic acid's larger molecular weight (152.1 daltons) penetrates skin slower than glycolic acid, making it suitable for sensitive skin and AHA beginners.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle Exfoliation
Mandelic acid's larger molecular weight (152.1 daltons) penetrates skin slower than glycolic acid, making it suitable for sensitive skin and AHA beginners.
Hydrating Formula
Contains Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer to attract and retain moisture, preventing the dryness often associated with exfoliating acids.
Soothing Complex
Tasmanian Pepperberry extract provides antioxidant benefits and helps reduce irritation and sensitivity during exfoliation.
Multi-Benefit Action
Addresses uneven texture, dullness, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and mild acne with antibacterial properties.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEMandelic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its larger molecular weight, which limits deep skin penetration. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with fungal acne concerns.
Oil-free, lightweight formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ daily and avoid direct sun exposure while using this product and for one week after.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMandelic Acid 10%Proven
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Its larger molecular size (152.1 daltons vs glycolic's 76 daltons) allows for slower, more even skin penetration—resulting in effective exfoliation with less irritation.
- Study: Clinical research shows mandelic acid effectively reduces acne lesions and hyperpigmentation with fewer side effects than glycolic acid.
- Benefit: Antibacterial and antioxidant properties make it especially effective for acne-prone skin.
- Result: Improves skin texture, tone, and clarity while stimulating collagen production.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer ~2%Proven
A crosslinked form of hyaluronic acid that creates a moisture-retaining film on the skin's surface, providing long-lasting hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Function: Forms a breathable moisture barrier that keeps skin hydrated during exfoliation.
- Benefit: Counteracts the potential drying effects of acid exfoliation.
Tasmannia Lanceolata (Tasmanian Pepperberry) <1%Promising
An Australian native plant extract with exceptional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Contains rutin, which helps strengthen capillaries.
- Antioxidant Power: Contains anthocyanins with 3x the antioxidant capacity of blueberries.
- Benefit: Helps reduce redness, irritation, and may help minimize dark under-eye circles.
Glycerin ~4%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Research shows glycerin is more effective at hydrating than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid alone.
- Study: 2016 research found glycerin to be the most effective humectant for skin hydration.
- Benefit: Strengthens skin barrier and has antimicrobial properties.
13 ingredients
Propanediol, Aqua (Water), Mandelic Acid, Glycerin, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based toners but before heavier serums and moisturizers. Use once daily in PM only. Can be diluted with other treatments to reduce strength while building tolerance.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat face dry completely before application.
Apply 3-4 Drops
Dispense a few drops onto fingertips and gently spread across face, avoiding the eye area and lips.
Allow to Absorb
Wait 30-60 seconds for the serum to absorb before applying the next step in your routine.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your regular moisturizer to lock in hydration. In the morning, always follow with SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're new to chemical exfoliants and want a gentle introduction
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to glycolic or lactic acid
- You're dealing with uneven texture, dullness, or mild hyperpigmentation
- You want to address mild acne with antibacterial properties
- You have melanin-rich skin (mandelic acid is great for skin of color)
- You need an affordable, effective AHA with minimal ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You want faster, more dramatic results (glycolic acid may be better)
- You're allergic to almonds (mandelic acid is derived from bitter almonds)
- You need deep pore cleansing (BHAs like salicylic acid work better)
- You prefer a non-oily texture (this has a slightly oily feel)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for sensitive skin. The gentle, slow-penetrating formula minimizes irritation while effectively exfoliating.
Helps control sebum production and unclogs pores. The lightweight formula doesn't add excess oil.
Balances exfoliation across different face zones without over-drying or irritating any area.
Hydrating ingredients help, but may need extra moisturizer. Start 2-3x weekly and increase as tolerated.
Antibacterial properties help with mild acne. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20.
Stimulates collagen production and addresses fine lines. Great gentle option for aging skin concerns.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8-12Immediate Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably softer to the touch after the first few applications. Surface texture begins to smooth out.
75% noticed smoother skinImproved Clarity & Brightness
Complexion appears more radiant and even. Some users experience mild purging as congestion clears—this is normal.
65% reported brighter skinVisible Texture Improvement
Noticeable reduction in rough patches, bumpy texture, and enlarged pore appearance. Acne marks begin fading.
70% saw texture improvementHyperpigmentation Fading
Significant improvement in dark spots, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone. Continued collagen stimulation improves fine lines.
60% noticed faded dark spotsRatings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle—no stinging or burning sensation
- Exceptional value at under $10 for effective exfoliation
- Perfect entry point for AHA beginners
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture and smoothness
- Suitable for sensitive and melanin-rich skin tones
- Minimal, clean ingredient list (only 13 ingredients)
- Helps fade acne marks and hyperpigmentation over time
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from common irritants
Criticized
- Oily texture can cause pilling with some products
- Not suitable for fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- Results are gradual—not as fast as glycolic acid
- 30ml bottle may not last long with daily use
- Some users experienced purging initially
- May not be strong enough for stubborn hyperpigmentation
- Dropper application can be messy
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also features 10% mandelic acid in a lightweight serum. Very similar gentle exfoliation profile with slightly different supporting ingredients.
Contains 10% mandelic acid plus encapsulated retinol for enhanced anti-aging. Richer cream texture vs. The Ordinary's serum consistency.
Higher 12% concentration with added niacinamide and natural fruit acids. More comprehensive formula but at a higher price point.
Lower 5% concentration in a toner format with centella and beta-glucan. More hydrating but less exfoliating strength.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Write the date you opened it on the bottle for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Mandelic acid is light-sensitive—keep the bottle tightly closed.
Amber glass dropper bottle to protect from light degradation. The dropper allows precise application.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQMandelic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding because its larger molecular weight (152.1 daltons) limits deep skin penetration, unlike retinoids or high-strength glycolic acid. However, as with any skincare product during pregnancy, it's best to consult your healthcare provider before use. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other commonly restricted pregnancy ingredients.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, which is an ester that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and exacerbate fungal acne. If you have fungal acne concerns, consider fungal-safe mandelic acid alternatives like Good Molecules Mandelic Acid Serum or other products specifically formulated without fungal triggers.
The Ordinary recommends NOT using Mandelic Acid in the same routine as: other direct acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic), pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), retinoids, or the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. You can alternate these ingredients on different nights. For example, use mandelic acid on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and retinol on Tuesday/Thursday. Always introduce new actives gradually to avoid over-exfoliation.
This product is particularly well-suited for: sensitive skin types who can't tolerate glycolic acid, AHA beginners looking for a gentle introduction to chemical exfoliation, oily and combination skin dealing with texture and congestion, melanin-rich skin tones (mandelic acid is excellent for skin of color), and those with mild acne benefiting from its antibacterial properties. It's less ideal for fungal acne sufferers or those needing aggressive exfoliation.
Results vary by individual, but typical timelines are: Week 1: Immediate smoothness and softer skin texture. Weeks 2-4: Improved brightness and clarity (some may experience purging). Weeks 4-8: Noticeable texture improvement and reduced pore appearance. Weeks 8-12: Significant fading of hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Consistency is key—use once daily in PM and always wear sunscreen during the day.
Apply Mandelic Acid after cleansing (and toning if you use a hydrating toner) but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and oils. The order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Mandelic Acid → Water-based serums → Moisturizer → Facial oil (PM) or Sunscreen (AM). Use only in your PM routine and always follow with SPF the next morning. Can be diluted with other treatments to reduce strength while building tolerance.
The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA has a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and lightweight. The main ingredients (Propanediol, Water, Mandelic Acid, Glycerin) are non-comedogenic. However, everyone's skin is different—if you're very acne-prone, patch test first. The mandelic acid itself actually helps unclog pores through exfoliation.
The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. After this time, the formula may become less effective or potentially irritating. Unopened, it has a shelf life of approximately 3 years from manufacture date. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize longevity. Mandelic acid is light-sensitive, so the amber bottle helps protect it from degradation.
Verdict: The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA delivers exceptional value as a gentle, effective exfoliant perfect for sensitive skin and AHA beginners. At under $10, it's hard to find a more accessible entry point into chemical exfoliation. The formula successfully balances efficacy with gentleness—you'll see real improvements in skin texture, brightness, and clarity without the irritation of stronger acids. The main limitations are its oily texture that may not layer perfectly with all products, and the Polysorbate 20 that makes it unsuitable for fungal acne. If you're looking for a fuss-free, budget-friendly way to achieve smoother, more radiant skin, this deserves a spot in your PM routine.
Browse related
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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|