# The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best products for oily skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin as the high concentration of mandelic acid effectively exfoliates and decongests pores, while glycerin provides essential hydration without clogging. Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract further calms the skin, balancing sebum production and reducing shine.
- The formulation is exceptionally safe for your skin type, with no harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, ensuring a gentle yet effective experience.
- This product is designed to perfectly address your primary concern of oily shine, offering a synergistic blend of ingredients that manage excess sebum and refine skin texture.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Treatment with 30% lactic acid peel showed a significantly greater reduction in pigmentation and higher patient satisfaction compared to 30% mandelic acid peel in patients with periorbital melanosis. ([Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41051381/))
- 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/))
- 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 this exfoliant product as part of your PM routine once a week. Start slowly and build up frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb fully. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the exfoliant directly onto completely dry skin to get the best balance and results. Clean, dry skin helps the product work evenly.
- Always avoid the delicate eye area when applying. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using exfoliating acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This product is an excellent fit because its high concentration of mandelic acid effectively exfoliates and decongests pores, while glycerin provides essential hydration without clogging. Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract further calms the skin, balancing sebum production and reducing shine with a very safe and gentle experience.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for oily skin?

Mandelic acid is a great fit because it helps exfoliate and clear out pores to reduce oily shine. Glycerin provides essential hydration without clogging your skin, and tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract calms the face while balancing oil production.
Sources: [Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34771112/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/)

### What does Mandelic Acid do for oily skin?

Mandelic acid helps clear active breakouts and smooth uneven skin tone for oily skin with fewer side effects than many other acids. It is generally well-tolerated and works effectively to keep skin calm and clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37894698/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps oily skin by reducing extra oil and sebum production without causing irritation. Clinical studies show it successfully balances oil levels while keeping the skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/)

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Start by using it once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

It is best not to use this strong exfoliant and retinol in the same routine, as combining them may easily irritate oily skin. Instead, you can alternate nights or use the exfoliant in your evening routine on nights when you skip retinol.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often only if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results. This gentle approach helps clear oily shine and unclog pores while keeping your skin calm and comfortable.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores as it uses mandelic acid to decongest pores and glycerin for hydration without heaviness. Initial purging is also low, though you may experience slow results when managing oily shine.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/), [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 oily skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €37.99 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €129.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €34.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €9.00 (https://www.notino.it/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha-siero-esfoliante-levigante/p-16204765/)
Prices checked 16 Oct 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
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- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/oily-skin