Mandelic acid is one of the safest and most effective AHA treatments for darker skin tones. Its large molecular structure penetrates the skin more slowly than glycolic acid, making it gentle but highly active — especially for acne, inflammation and pigment concerns that are more common with melanin-rich skin.

Why this treatment is ideal for darker skin

• Mandelic acid has a low risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), making it suitable and safe for Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI.

• It offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to calm active breakouts without irritating the skin.

• It supports a more even skin tone by reducing pigment formation over time, while keeping the skin barrier healthy.

Based on your current skin concerns, this peel helps with:

• Active acne and clogged pores

• Bacterial and inflammatory breakouts

• Fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)

• Congestion, blackheads and excess oil

• Early pigment marks caused by previous breakouts

• Reducing redness and calming irritation

How the treatment works

Mandelic acid gently dissolves excess oil, unclogs pores, smooths dead skin cells and reduces inflammation.
It also lowers the skin's pH temporarily, which helps interrupt the inflammation–bacteria cycle often present in acne. The peel additionally reduces harmful microbiota and supports a healthier skin environment.

During the treatment you may feel a mild warming sensation. Redness can occur but typically settles quickly.

Expected Results

You may notice:

• Clearer pores and fewer breakouts

• Calmer, less inflamed skin

• Gradual improvement in pigment spots caused by acne

• Smoother texture and more balanced oil production

Results build gradually. While one treatment improves the skin, a structured series gives the best outcome.

Recommended Treatment Plan

A series of 3 mandelic acid peels
Interval: Every 2 weeks
Total duration: 4–6 weeks

This schedule allows the skin to respond without irritation and gives optimal results in acne control and pigment prevention.

After the series, we re-evaluate the skin and decide whether maintenance treatments (every 4–6 weeks) are needed.

Home Care Recommendations (Important for Darker Skin)

To protect the skin and avoid post-treatment pigmentation, home care is essential.

Recommended routine:

• Gentle cleanser – no scrubs or exfoliating brushes

• Calming toner / essence

• Acne-safe serum – antibacterial or anti-inflammatory

• Barrier-supporting moisturizer

• Daily SPF 30–50 — absolutely essential to prevent pigmentation

Avoid for 3–5 days:

• Harsh exfoliants

• Retinol/retinoids

• Scrubbing

• Sauna and heavy sweating on the same day

• Picking or squeezing any pimples

What to Expect After Each Peel

• Mild redness or warmth for a few hours

• Slight dryness or flaking for 1–3 days

• Skin feels smoother and less congested

• Every visit builds on the previous one