Mandelic Acid Peels: The Most Underrated Peel for Winter Glow

Winter weather often leaves skin feeling dull, dry, and lackluster — especially after holiday festivities and seasonal stress. While many patients think of traditional chemical peels like glycolic or salicylic acid, there’s one peel that consistently delivers a radiant winter glow with less irritation: mandelic acid. At MDCS Dermatology, Marisa K. Garshick, MD recommends mandelic acid peels during the colder months because they exfoliate gently while improving texture, tone, and clarity — making them one of the most underrated options for winter skin renewal.

What Is Mandelic Acid?

Mandelic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Like other AHAs — such as glycolic and lactic acids — mandelic acid works by loosening the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together so they can shed more easily. The key difference lies in molecular size: mandelic acid’s larger molecules penetrate more slowly and evenly, making it gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation.

Because of this, mandelic acid peels are ideal for winter skincare, when skin is often more sensitive due to dryness and cold exposure.

Why Mandelic Acid Is Perfect for Winter

Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliation

Winter can compromise your skin’s barrier, leading to redness and irritation. Mandelic acid’s slower penetration makes it less intense than other peels — but still powerful enough to refresh and refine.

Improved Texture and Tone

Mandelic acid helps soften rough patches, smooth uneven texture, and brighten dull winter skin — giving you a healthy glow without harsh side effects.

Safe for a Variety of Skin Types

Whether you have dry, sensitive, or deeper skin tones, mandelic acid’s gentleness makes it an excellent choice for winter peel treatments.

Reduced Risk of Inflammation

Unlike stronger peels that can cause longer downtime, mandelic acid peels typically result in minimal irritation and redness, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle even during recovery.

What Mandelic Acid Peels Can Help With

Mandelic acid peels at MDCS Dermatology can provide a range of improvements:

• Brightened complexion
  

• Reduced dark spots and pigmentation
  

• Evened skin tone
  

• Refined texture
  

• Clearer pores and reduced congestion
  

• Improved overall radiance
  

Most patients experience noticeable results with a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart.

Professional vs. At-Home Mandelic Acid Products

While mild at-home mandelic acid skincare can improve daily exfoliation, professional mandelic acid peels — available through dermatology practices like MDCS Dermatology — offer higher-strength formulations for deeper renewal.

Concentrations of 40% or greater should only be applied by trained clinicians to ensure safety and optimal results. During a professional peel, your provider can customize the peel strength based on your skin type and goals.

For those prone to cold sores, stronger peels may trigger an outbreak — which is why professional monitoring is recommended, and antiviral medication can be prescribed if needed.

Post-Peel Care for Best Results

After a mandelic peel, your provider will recommend:

• Gentle moisturization
  

• Broad-spectrum SPF protection
  

• Avoiding harsh scrubs or exfoliants
  

• Keeping the skin hydrated and protected
  

These steps help maintain your winter glow and support ongoing skin health.

Is a Mandelic Peel Right for You?

If dullness, uneven tone, or congested pores have left your skin looking tired this winter, a mandelic acid peel may be just what you need. With its gentle yet effective formula, this peel delivers smoother, brighter, and more radiant skin — without overwhelming irritation.

✨ Book your mandelic acid peel appointment:
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