Mandelic Acid Market Size & Share, by Type (DL, L, and D); and Application - Global Supply & Demand Analysis, Growth Forecasts, Statistics Report 2025-2037

Growth Drivers

• Growing demand for fragrances and preservatives: Mandelic acid enhances the longevity and intensity of perfumes by acting as a fixative and helps maintain the optimal pH of fragrance formulations, preventing degradation. Consumers are shifting toward plant-derived and synthetic-free perfumes, boosting the adoption of mandelic acid. The premium perfume sector is growing, with brands emphasizing gentle, long-lasting formulations that benefit from mandelic acid’s stabilizing role.
  
  Moreover, the rising demand for safe and natural preservatives in cosmetics and personal care drives the mandelic acid market. The American Chemical Society states that about 40% of customers prioritize natural ingredients in their beauty and personal care products. As regulatory bans and consumer awareness push companies away from parabens, mandelic acid is emerging as a safer, skin-friendly option.
• Rising disposable income and changing lifestyle trends: Consumers have more spending power and are investing in high ingredients like mandelic acid. Premium beauty brands are incorporating mandelic acid into their anti-aging, acne treatment, and hyperpigmentation products, driving mandelic acid market expansion. The rise of self-care and wellness culture has led to increased demand for chemical peels, serums, and anti-aging solutions. Approximately 88% (9 out of 10) of U.S. residents actively engage in self-care, and a third of customers have expanded their self-care practices in 2024. Growing awareness about skincare routines and prevention-based beauty trends is fueling the uptake of exfoliating and brightening products.
  
  Social media and beauty influencers are shaping consumer preferences, encouraging the use of dermatologist-recommended and science-backed ingredients like mandelic acid.
  
  Further, consumers are increasingly choosing natural, organic, and clean-label cosmetics and wellness goods, indicating a growing shift toward sustainability and organic products. Mandelic acid, being a gentle and naturally derived AHA, is gaining popularity as a safer alternative to harsher acids like glycolic acid. The preference for non-invasive skin treatments and at-home chemical peels has surged, leading to higher demand for mandelic acid-based formulations. Face peel products grew 150% between 2019 and 2020, with a 107% increase in sales in April 2020 compared to March. The Ordinary, QRxLabs, Dr. Dennis Gross, M-61, Bliss, and Neogen Dermalogy are some of the major beauty brands in the online face peel sector.
  
  The combination of higher disposable income, evolving beauty trends, and a shift toward premium skincare products is fueling the mandelic acid market. As consumers continue to prioritize skin health and sustainable beauty, the demand for gentle yet effective active ingredients like mandelic acid will remain strong.

Challenges

• Potential skin sensitivity and allergic reactions: Risk of skin irritation and sensitivity can cause redness, irritation, and peeling, especially for sensitive skin users. Higher concentrations (>10%) in chemical peels and professional treatments increase the risk of adverse reactions. First-time users may misuse or overapply mandelic acid, leading to irritation and negative consumer perception.
  
  Moreover, allergic reactions and skin conditions such as contact dermatitis or allergic reactions, including itching, burning, or swelling, may develop. Individuals with pre-existing rosacea, eczema, or extremely sensitive skin may experience excessive dryness or flare-ups. The lack of widespread dermatological recommendations compared to other AHAs may limit consumer confidence.
• Growing competition from synthetic and multi-ingredient skincare solutions: Modern skincare products now combine multiple active ingredients for enhanced benefits. Consumers prefer all-in-one solutions over single-ingredient products like mandelic acid, limiting its standalone appeal. Brands are increasingly formulating customized blends with AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs, reducing the reliance on mandelic acid alone.
  
  While mandelic acid remains a valuable exfoliant and skincare ingredient, the rise of synthetic, multi-ingredient, and biotech-driven formulations is shifting consumer preference. To stay competitive, mandelic acid brands must develop hybrid formulations, emphasize unique benefits, such as its antibacterial properties for acne-prone skin, and adapt to mandelic acid market trends by integrating advanced skincare technologies.