Chemical exfoliation is the new trend. Instead of walnut shell scrub particles, acids like AHA, BHA, PHA, etc are used in small concentrations which help in exfoliating the skin without giving micro tears or being harsh. I haven’t used a scrub since last 3-4 years and I can totally see the difference. Being a lover of chemical exfoliators, I screamed with joy when I was sent Suganda 5% Mandelic acid serum to try out. Sharing my thoughts on it after having used it for over a month.

Price: Rs.599 for 30ml. It has a shelf life of 18 months.

Availability: Brand website & Amazon.

Brand website: https://suganda.co/products/5-mandelic-acid-serum

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3aQoSVP

Ingredients:

Aqua, Mandelic acid, Propylene glycol, Glycerin, Gluconolactone, Sodium Hydroxide, Betaine, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Centella Asiatica Extract, Salicylic Acid, Panthenol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf, Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice), Root Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium Edta

The star ingredient is Mandelic acid. It is an AHA that comes from bitter almond and is named after the german name of almond, ‘mandel‘. It can gently lift off surface skin cells and make the skin more smooth and even. It has antibacterial properties and thus helps in reducing acne. It also works on superficial pigmentation to reveal an even looking skin.*

Other actives include:

Salicylic acid: This exfoliating acid is a BHA. It removes excess oil and shine, while also sloughing away dead skin and other pore-clogging impurities. Due to the fact that it penetrates deeper into pores than other acids, it’s particularly effect at treating (and preventing) acne.*

PHA (Polyhydroxy acids): PHA has all the benefits of AHAs without the irritation. It gently lifts off dead skin cells and makes your skin smooth and even. It moisturizes and helps the skin barrier. It can be used by sensitive skin too. In the long run, it provides anti-aging benefits and is also an antioxidant.*

The texture of Suganda 5% Mandelic acid serum is a runny gel and has a faint yellowish colour to it. The serum is free from added fragrance  but it does have some smell to it because of the ingredients. The serum feels slimy and gets absorbed in the skin almost instantly. It can be layered easily under skincare and makeup.

How to apply Suganda 5% Mandelic acid serum?

The steps should look like this: Face wash ~ toner ~ Suganda 5% Mandelic acid serum ~ moisturizer.

It is advised that the serum should be used only during night time. Also if you are new to exfoliating serums, always use them 1-2 times a week initially and then slowly increase the usage. I however used it 3 times a week (alternate days) even though my skin is pretty much tolerant to acids. It is better not to exfoliate the skin every single day and my dermatologist has also advised the same. Over exfoliation is also harmful hence always remember “less is more”.

Do not apply this serum around the eye area.

My verdict on Suganda 5% Mandelic acid serum:

I love exfoliating serums in general and this is no exception. It delivers all of its claims and never irritated my skin. I’ll always recommend you to use exfoliating serums 2-3 times a week only and not daily, you’ll see better results without compromising your skin. I started seeing visible results in 3-4 weeks.

• skin texture improved
• more glow on the skin
• pigmentation started to fade slowly (not disappear totally, not yet)
• skin felt less congested
• took care of mild acne

I cannot say about regulating oil production as I apply quite nourishing products on the top of it and I don’t mind the shine on my face because I like my night time routine to be a little on the heavier side.

Suitable for ~ mostly all skin types

Not suitable for ~ those having very sensitive skin. Please proceed with caution.

“Always do a patch test before incorporating any new skincare product in your routine.”

Concluding my thoughts. I hope you liked the post and if you did, do consider subscribing to my blog. Show some love by liking, sharing and commenting your views/thoughts. Until next time, stay beautiful & keep smiling!

You can also find Makeup & Smiles at ~

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin’ | YouTube

**gifted with no obligation to post on the blog

*source: https://suganda.co/pages/ingredients

Share some love: