How to Choose the Right Mandelic Serum Strength
If you’re using Face Reality Mandelic Serum or thinking about adding it into your routine, you might be wondering which strength is right for your skin, or if it’s time to increase your percentage.
At Clover Skin Bar, our team of Master Estheticians are all Face Reality Certified Acne Experts who help clients build exfoliating routines around their unique skin type, acne type, and sensitivity. Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, this guide will help you understand each strength and know when it’s time to adjust!
What Mandelic Serum Does
Face Reality Mandelic Serum is a professional-grade exfoliating treatment powered by lactic acid and mandelic acid. It helps clear clogged pores, dissolve buildup, and fade post-acne marks for smoother, brighter skin.
Because mandelic acid has a larger molecular size, it absorbs more slowly than other AHAs like glycolic acid, making it gentle enough for sensitive, inflamed, or acne-prone skin. It helps refine texture, control excess oil, and improve overall clarity without irritation or dryness.
Mandelic serum pairs exfoliating acids with niacinamide and hydrating ingredients that draw moisture into the skin, keeping it balanced and supported while it works.
Mandelic acid has been clinically shown to improve both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne, reduce congestion, and enhance skin texture while minimizing irritation compared to stronger acids Măgerușan et al., 2023
Understanding Each Mandelic Serum Strength
| Strength | Best For | What It Does | Skin Type Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandelic Serum 5% | First-time users or sensitive, dry, or reactive skin | Provides gentle exfoliation and clarifying action without irritation | Combination, delicate, or first time users |
| Mandelic Serum 8% | Normal to combination skin, mild acne, or uneven tone | Offers balanced exfoliation to smooth texture and fade dark spots | Normal to combination skin |
| Mandelic Serum 11% | Oily, congested, or acne-prone skin | Delivers deeper exfoliation to clear pores, smooth rough texture, and brighten stubborn marks | Oily or breakout-prone skin |
| Mandelic Serum 15% | Body areas (chest, back, shoulders) or thicker skin | Strongest exfoliation level; helps smooth buildup and prevent body acne | Best used under professional guidance |
Clover Tip: Strength is never about “the higher, the better.” It’s about what your barrier can handle. Clear skin comes from balance, not force!
Thinking About Changing Your Strength? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions!
1. Is this my first time using Mandelic Serum?
If you’re new to exfoliating acids, start with 5%. Beginning too strong can cause dryness or flaking that slows your progress.
2. What is the state of my skin barrier?
If your skin feels dry, tight, or tingly, your barrier might need more hydration. Focus on barrier repair with HydraRemedy Gel Serum and Cran Peptide Cream before increasing your strength. Never push through irritation. A calm barrier always clears faster!
3. Has my skin stopped improving?
If you’ve been using the same strength for several months and your clogged pores or texture aren’t changing, it your skin might be ready for a small increase. A small increase can help restart the progress when your skin becomes accustomed to a certain strength.
4. Is my current strength treating my concerns?
If you’re dealing with mild congestion or redness, a lower strength may be enough. If you’re targeting stubborn buildup or deeper texture issues, a stronger formula can be more effective.
5. Have I checked in with my Clover esthetician?
They can evaluate your skin and review your routine in person or through Zoom and tell whether it’s time to increase your strength. Checking in regularly helps you avoid over exfoliation and keeps your progress consistent.
How to Build Your Mandelic Serum Routine
Once you’ve determined your correct strength, build a supporting routine around it to keep your skin balanced and hydrated.
Below is a sample routine designed by our estheticians for clients using Acne Med:
AM Routine
| Step | Product | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Barrier Balance Creamy Cleanser | Gently cleanses without stripping the skin |
| 2 | Moisture Balance Toner | Restores hydration and preps skin |
| 3 | Hydraremedy Gel Serum | Supports the skin’s natural protective barrier and strengthens the microbiome |
| 4 | Mandelic Serum | Smooths texture, clears buildup, and brightens |
| 5 | Cran Peptide Cream | Nourishes and seals in moisture |
| 6 | Daily SPF 30 Plus | Protects against UV damage and prevents post-acne marks |
Clover Tip: Always allow each product to fully absorb before layering the next. SPF is non-negotiable when using exfoliating acids.
PM Routine
| Step | Product | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Barrier Balance Creamy Cleanser | Removes buildup and impurities |
| 2 | Ultra Gentle Cleanser | Provides a light double cleanse |
| 3 | Moisture Balance Toner | Hydrates and preps skin |
| 4 | Hydraremedy Gel Serum | Supports the skin’s natural protective barrier and strengthens the microbiome |
| 5 | Barrier Care Gel Cream | Locks in moisture overnight |
Clover Tip: If your needs extra hydration in the morning, add a thin layer of Barrier Care Gel Cream before applying SPF. Products perform best when skin feels hydrated, not dry.
Why Clients Love Mandelic Serum at Clover
Clients love how Mandelic Serum clears congestion, smooths texture, and brightens post-acne marks without irritation. It’s gentle yet effective, making it a favorite for those who want visible results without compromising their skin barrier.
It’s one of the most versatile, acne safe exfoliants we carry and works beautifully for both beginners and long term users.
Our team helps you:
1. Find your ideal Mandelic Serum strength
2. Build a routine that supports your barrier
3. Adjust as your skin progresses
Clover Skin offers both in person and zoom consultations so you can get expert guidance no matter where you are.
Let’s Keep Your Skin Thriving!
Mandelic Serum works best when your barrier is supported and your plan stays personal. If you’re unsure which strength or routine is right for you, we’re here to help.
Reach out to our team or book a Consultation at Clover Skin Bar in person or over Zoom. Together, we’ll build a custom, acne-safe routine that keeps your skin smooth, balanced, and glowing.
