Face Reality Mandelic Serum

Face Reality Mandelic Serum is a chirally correct alpha-hydroxy acid serum designed to treat acne, folliculitis, and hyperpigmentation while visibly brightening and resurfacing the skin. Combining L-Mandelic Acid and Lactic Acid with niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate, it delivers meaningful exfoliation without the irritation that comes with smaller-molecule AHAs like glycolic acid, making it one of the most effective and well-tolerated mandelic serums available for acne-prone skin.

Key Benefits

Exfoliates Without Triggering Sensitivity
L-Mandelic Acid has a larger molecular size than glycolic or salicylic acid, meaning it penetrates more slowly and evenly for effective resurfacing with significantly less redness and irritation.

Visibly Fades Dark Spots and Post-Acne Marks
Mandelic and lactic acids suppress melanin production and accelerate cell turnover, reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation, PIH, and sun damage over time.

Clears and Tightens Congested Pores
Regular use dissolves the dead skin cell buildup that leads to clogged pores, blackheads, and comedonal acne, resulting in a clearer, smoother complexion.

Treats Acne and Folliculitis
Mandelic acid is antibacterial and antifungal, making it uniquely effective for both acne and folliculitis, which standard AHAs do not address.

Strengthens and Hydrates While It Exfoliates
Sodium hyaluronate draws moisture into the skin and niacinamide reinforces the barrier, so the skin stays balanced rather than dry or reactive during active exfoliation.

Available in Four Strengths
Available in 5%, 8%, 11%, and 15% concentrations, allowing gradual progression as the skin builds tolerance or specific protocols require a stronger dose.

Face Reality Mandelic Serum is ideal for oily, combination, and normal skin types dealing with active acne, post-acne hyperpigmentation, folliculitis, or uneven texture. If you have tried other AHA serums and found them too harsh or too irritating, mandelic acid is the logical next step because the larger molecule delivers results without the same level of skin disruption.

Dry and sensitive skin types can also benefit, but should start at the 5% concentration and introduce the serum slowly. Layering it over Face Reality hydraBalance before application helps buffer the acid and keep the skin from becoming overly dry during the adjustment period.

When clients are new to mandelic acid, I always have them start at the 5% and layer it over hydraBalance before applying. It buffers the acid just enough to keep the skin comfortable while it adjusts, and it dramatically reduces the chance of over-exfoliation during the first few weeks. - Jeana, Owner and Licensed Esthetician

Prepare: Cleanse and tone thoroughly before applying. The skin should be clean and free of any residue that could interfere with acid penetration.

Apply: Dispense 1 pump and apply evenly to the face or affected areas. Use only the 5%, 8%, or 11% concentrations on the face. The 15% is formulated for the body only unless otherwise directed by your esthetician.

Technique: Allow the serum to dry completely before layering your moisturizer on top. Do not rinse off. Applying moisturizer before the serum has fully dried can dilute the acid and reduce effectiveness.

Frequency: May be used once or twice daily as directed by your esthetician or AOS Acne Specialist. Always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher in the morning, as AHA use increases UV sensitivity.

We offer free shipping on every order $50+ (just $7 flat-rate below that). Orders placed before 1pm PST Monday through Friday ship out the same day. Orders placed outside of that window are shipped the very next day!

Changed your mind? We get it. That's why our return window is generous: 30 days even if you've opened and tried it, or a full 60 days if it's still sealed. Some exclusions apply. See our full return policy for details.