NINELESS — Molecule-Clear 5% Mandelic Acid Serum 30ml

Molecule-Clear 5% Mandelic Serum is the most versatile exfoliating formula in the NINELESS selection at ParaDermia. Mandelic acid is the AHA with the largest molecular size (MW 152 Da, compared to 76 Da for glycolic acid)—this characteristic allows for slower, more even epidermal penetration, resulting in a significantly more favorable irritation profile than glycolic acid. It is the recommended first-line AHA for sensitive, reactive skin, or for phototypes IV to VI: the risk of reactive post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is significantly lower than with glycolic acid or small-molecule AHAs. At 5%, the concentration is within the documented effective range for keratolysis, pore refinement, and reduction of post-blemish residue. Mandelic acid also demonstrates documented activity on the skin microbiome associated with blemishes (notably Cutibacterium acnes) and a complementary tyrosinase-inhibiting action—two properties particularly relevant for skin of phototypes IV to VI with post-blemish pigment marks. The comfort system (Sorbitol + Sodium Hyaluronate + Panthenol + Allantoin) is well-designed to balance exfoliation. The formula is Glyoxal-free—which distinguishes it regulatory-wise from the PD-0504 glycolic serum in the same range (in draft). A clean formula with 16 ingredients, fragrance-free, alcohol-free. The progression Level 3 (mandelic) → Level 4 (glycolic) is the recommended learning sequence in the Molecule-Clear range, provided that the glycolic acid is eventually released.