What is mandelic acid and what does it do for your skin?
Het Nieuwsblad, 17 April 2026
Dr Griet Voet in Het Nieuwsblad on mandelic acid: how this mild AHA exfoliates your skin, who it suits and how to use it safely.
In Het Nieuwsblad, Dr Griet Voet explains what mandelic acid is: an exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), either natural or synthetic. Because of its larger molecules, it penetrates the skin more slowly and is considered the mildest AHA. It removes dead skin cells, which refreshes the complexion and can help with clogged pores and spots, and it also works more deeply on fine lines and pigmentation spots.
Because it is mild, mandelic acid suits most skin types. People with a nut allergy are better off choosing the synthetic version. Using it too often or combining it with other active ingredients can cause irritation. Dr Voet recommends building up gradually, applying the product after cleansing without rinsing it off, and always using sun protection during the day.
Key advice
Start with one or two applications a week and build up gradually.
If you have a nut allergy, choose the synthetic version.
Don't combine too many active ingredients at once.
Always use sun protection during the day.
“Because of its relatively large molecules, the substance penetrates the skin relatively slowly, which is why mandelic acid is known as the mildest AHA” — Dr Griet Voet