# The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for France.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best products for skin with dark spots.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your normal skin and pigmentation concerns as the high concentration of mandelic acid effectively exfoliates and renews the skin, while glycerin provides essential hydration.
- Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract further enhances the formula by offering soothing benefits, complementing the exfoliating action for a balanced treatment.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract to minimize any potential irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots): Superior (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Mandelic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Propanediol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Topical Tasmannia lanceolata extract reduced skin roughness, increased firmness, dermal density, and thickness of stabilized stretch marks compared to placebo in 29 women over 8 weeks, alongside increased pro-collagen I, elastin, and TGF-beta concentrations in ex vivo human skin explants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33048421/))
- Treatment with 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))
- Chemical peels using 35% glycolic acid, 20% salicylic-10% mandelic acid, and phytic acid reduce acne scores by 70.55%, 74.14%, and 69.7% respectively, and significantly decline the postacne hyperpigmentation index in Asian patients with mild to moderate acne. ([Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31619887/))
- Commonly used chemical peels showed no significant differences in effectiveness for acne vulgaris in most comparisons, though combined salicylic and mandelic acid peeling was superior to glycolic acid and glycolic acid was superior to placebo, based on twelve randomized controlled trials. ([BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical application of 1,3-propanediol at various concentrations, alone or combined with butylene glycol and/or glycerol, increased skin hydration and reduced trans epidermal water loss in 30 healthy female subjects over an 8-hour period, with the 15% concentration and the addition of glycerol providing greater benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/))
- A mixture of propanediol, xylitol, and caprylic acid demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial activity against C. acnes and S. aureus, reduced 5-alpha reductase expression, and decreased skin oiliness, porphyrin, and inflammatory lesions in participants over 28 days. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34771112/))
- Sustainable cosmetic products formulated with renewable PDO-based emulsifiers showed equivalent performance in sensory and moisturization evaluations compared to those formulated with petroleum-derived PEG-based emulsifiers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29465392/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is widely praised as an excellent entry-level exfoliant, particularly for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin who find other acids too harsh. Users consistently report a slow but steady improvement in skin texture and clarity, with a significant reduction in closed comedones and hormonal breakouts, though the oily consistency is a polarizing feature. Based on a very large amount of data, this should definitely be taken into account.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliant (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves acne (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Oily residue (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating effect (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to start, moving up to twice a week if your skin likes it. Always apply SPF during the day while using this product.
- Apply this exfoliant step right after your cleanser and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it dry. Avoid rubbing your face hard.
- Apply the product on clean, completely dry skin to make sure it works best for your pigmentation goals.
- Remember to avoid the delicate eye area and do a quick patch test before using it for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA one of the best fits for skin with dark spots?

This product is an excellent fit for dark spots because its high concentration of mandelic acid effectively exfoliates and renews the skin while glycerin provides essential hydration. Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract further enhances the formula by offering soothing benefits, minimizing potential irritation and complementing the exfoliating action for a balanced treatment.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33048421/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Mandelic acid is the key ingredient that effectively exfoliates and renews the skin to help fade dark spots. Additionally, glycerin provides essential hydration, and tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract helps soothe the skin and minimize any potential irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Mandelic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Mandelic acid helps fade dark spots and uneven skin tone while being generally gentle on the skin. It works by gently exfoliating the outer layer to reveal fresher, more even skin underneath. To properly treat dark spots, a product of this type needs additional brightening ingredients and soothing agents to calm the skin and improve pigment reduction.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27028014/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Hyaluronic acid is unlikely to directly fade dark spots, but it helps keep dry and uneven skin plump and deeply hydrated. To effectively target dark spots, this type of skin needs brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide alongside your hydrator.

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This exfoliant goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Start by using it once a week, and if your skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this exfoliant with retinol, but it is best to use them on different nights or times of day to avoid making your skin dry or irritated. Using both at the same time is likely to overwhelm your skin barrier.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. It helps renew the skin and fade dark spots while keeping your skin calm and hydrated.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores, but initial purging may occasionally happen as it renews the skin and clears dark spots. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate in the formula help keep your skin hydrated while it works.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €18.25 at Amazon
- [La Mer The Regenerating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-mer/the-regenerating-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €25.57 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €10.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €12.56 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €8.51 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B07BGJMNYL?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €8.51 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/the-ordinary-mandelic-acid-10-30ml/11751839/)
- Notino: €8.90 (https://www.notino.fr/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1-serum-exfoliant-lissant/p-16204765/)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Propanediol, Water, Mandelic Acid, Glycerin, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots