When it comes to skin exfoliation there are many routes one can take to effectively improve dullness and poor complexion. We tried the new Skin Functional gentle exfoliating Mandelic Tonic, a gentle exfoliator, suitable for sensitive skin that smooths rough and uneven skin tone.

• Skin Functional is made in South Africa.
• Lackluster, tired and uneven complexion is a common skin concern many suffer from.
• Fruit acids are substances that have a superficial peeling action.
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Superficial peeling is a procedure in which the exfoliant penetrates through the entire thickness of the epidermis and of part, or all, of the papillary layer of the skin (depending on the concentration of the acid). The most frequently used fruit acids in dermatology and cosmetology are those with the shortest carbon chains – these include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid.

The largest molecular size in the Alpha Hydroxy Acid, mandelic acid, harvested from the extract of bitter almonds through the hydrolysis of benzaldehyde, offers very slow, controlled penetration which makes this fruit acid the product of choice for darker skin types and more sensitive skin types.

Trialing it in the evening after cleansing, a saturated cotton pad is all it takes to gently wipe across face, neck, and décolletage. Ideally, the tonic should be left to dry on the skin, followed with a serum or moisturizer – do not rinse off. It is a gentle exfoliator, suitable for sensitive skin that smooths rough and uneven skin tone, which makes it a suitable adjunctive treatment for acne.

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic skin disease with skin lesions occurring primarily in the seborrheic areas of the body, for example, the face, back, and chest. Mandelic acid yields very good results when used to treat excessive actinic keratosis, hyperpigmentation, and mesh-like wrinkles, which are primarily caused by sun-induced aging of the skin. Skin Functional’s Mandelic Tonic is considered to be well suited for the care of skin with acne vulgaris.

This product does contain an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterward.

Skin Functional Mandelic Tonic (retailing at R250) is alcohol, silicone, and fragrance-free.

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