Mandelic, pronounced /ˈmandəlɪk/, is an organic compound commonly used in skincare products due to its ability to exfoliate and brighten skin. The spelling of "Mandelic" is derived from the term "mandelate," which refers to the salt form of mandelic acid. The correct pronunciation of "Mandelic" follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbol for "ə," which represents a neutral vowel sound, while "lɪk" refers to the consonant cluster "lk." Overall, the spelling and pronunciation of "Mandelic" are straightforward for speakers familiar with IPA transcription.
Mandelic, an adjective derived from the term "mandelic acid," refers to a type of organic compound that contains a molecule composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. Mandelic acid is part of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family and can be derived from almonds or other sources.
In chemical terminology, "mandelic" can specifically describe the molecular structure, function, or properties related to mandelic acid. Mandelic acid is widely used in various fields, including medicine, skincare, and chemical industries. Its unique properties, such as its ability to exfoliate and promote cell turnover, make it widely sought-after for the treatment of various skin conditions, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging signs. It is also used as an antibacterial agent and can be employed in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical drugs.
In the context of skincare, mandelic acid is often utilized in topical treatments, such as serums, cleansers, and masks, to improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin. It is revered for its gentleness, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Additionally, mandelic acid has a larger molecular size compared to other AHAs, allowing it to penetrate the skin more slowly, resulting in less irritation. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for reducing redness and inflammation.
Overall, the term "mandelic" signifies the presence, association, or attributes related to mandelic acid, particularly in the realms of chemistry, medicine, and skincare.
The word "mandelic" is derived from "benzaldehyde" and "mandelic acid", both of which come from the German term "Mandel" meaning "almond". This is because both benzaldehyde and mandelic acid can be derived from bitter almonds (Prunus dulcis) or the oil extracted from them. The term "mandelic" is specifically used to describe compounds that are structurally related to mandelic acid.