Mandelic acid

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. It is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and other organic solvents. Mandelic acid is used in the medical field, skincare industry, and in the synthesis of other chemicals.

History

Mandelic acid was first isolated in 1831 by the German pharmacist Friedrich Wöhler and was named after the German word for almond (Mandel). It was one of the first alpha hydroxy acids to be used in skincare, with its use dating back to the 1940s.

Properties and Synthesis

Mandelic acid is a chiral molecule, with two enantiomers. The (R)-enantiomer is naturally occurring and has a sweet taste, while the (S)-enantiomer has a bitter taste. The synthesis of mandelic acid involves the hydrolysis of mandelonitrile, which is derived from benzaldehyde and hydrogen cyanide.

Uses

Medical Uses

In the medical field, mandelic acid is used as an antibiotic, particularly in the treatment of urinary tract infections. It is also used as an oral antibiotic in the treatment of acne.

Skincare Uses

In the skincare industry, mandelic acid is used as a chemical peel. It is less irritating and has a larger molecular size than other AHAs, which makes it penetrate the skin more slowly and cause less irritation. It is used to treat acne, melasma, and photoaging.

Chemical Synthesis

Mandelic acid is also used in the synthesis of other chemicals, including the anti-Parkinson's drug Levodopa.

Safety and Side Effects

While generally safe for use, mandelic acid can cause skin irritation, redness, and peeling, particularly at higher concentrations. It is recommended to use sunscreen when using products containing mandelic acid, as it can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.

See Also

• Alpha hydroxy acid
• Chemical peel
• Acne
• Levodopa