# The INKEY List Mandelic Acid Treatment for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for dry skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry skin due to mandelic acid, which can help with flakiness, but the formula lacks sufficient hydrating ingredients to counteract potential dryness.
- Retinol is included for texture refinement, but its inclusion alongside mandelic acid may increase the risk of irritation for your dry skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Mandelic Acid, Glycerin, Retinol, Ethyl Ferulate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Treatment with 14% ferulic acid and 12% l-ascorbic acid significantly reduced pigmentation and erythema while improving hydration and elasticity in 20 women with photoaged skin, with neither acid proving definitively more effective overall though ascorbic acid showed slightly greater skin lightening. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34877760/))
- Combining fractional microneedle radiofrequency with a topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced wrinkle severity by 29.9% versus 18.0%, increased elasticity by 12.9% versus 2.3%, and improved aesthetic outcomes in 31 participants compared to radiofrequency and placebo. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40464749/))
- Pretreatment with a topical antioxidant mixture of vitamin C, ferulic acid, and phloretin attenuated ultraviolet-induced sunburn cell formation, thymine dimer formation, matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression, p53 protein expression, and the suppression of CD1a-expressing Langerhans cells in human skin compared to vehicle control. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146606/))

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this treatment effective for fading post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation, with a high frequency of positive comments noting its gentleness on sensitive skin. Many reviewers also appreciate its ability to improve skin texture and its affordable price point. A significant number of users mention that visible results require patience and consistent daily use over several weeks, and some find the natural scent unpleasant or the product size small.

- Liked: Fades dark spots (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Slow to show results (often mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable price (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Small product size (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky texture (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum PM, starting 3×/week and working up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is The INKEY List Mandelic Acid Treatment a weak match for dry skin?

This treatment is a weak match because it may dry out and irritate dry skin. To fit dry skin well, a product of this type needs soothing, deeply hydrating ingredients like propolis, niacinamide, ceramides, vitamin C, or peptides that support skin health without causing irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a poor fit for dry skin?

Mandelic acid and retinol make this treatment a weak match because they can dry out dry skin and may increase the risk of irritation. A treatment of this type needs soothing ingredients that provide significant hydration, ceramides, and skin barrier support.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Mandelic acid helps keep dry skin smooth and hydrated while improving overall texture. When combined with nourishing ingredients like Centella asiatica, it can also significantly improve skin firmness and reduce crepiness without causing excessive irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42696337/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, starting just once a week. Because this type of product is a weak match for dry skin, it needs plenty of extra hydrating ingredients and gentle moisture to prevent flakiness and irritation.

### Can I use it with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with niacinamide, applying your niacinamide serum right after cleansing and before this product. Because this formula can be drying, a product of this type needs extra hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing oils to keep dry skin comfortable.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this treatment once a week in the evening to see how your dry skin tolerates it, as combining exfoliating acid and retinol may increase the risk of irritation. A product of this type for dry skin needs plenty of hydrating and soothing ingredients like glycerin and plant oils to keep skin soft and calm while preventing dryness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin, but combining mandelic acid and retinol may increase the risk of irritation and flakiness. A product of this type for dry skin needs extra hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol). Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €25.00 at Amazon
- [Missha The First Essence 5X](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €30.75 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/purito/daily-soft-touch-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €20.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/round-lab/1025-dokdo-cleansing-water/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Laneige Water Sleeping Mask_EX](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/laneige/water-sleeping-mask-ex/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €33.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Netherlands has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Mandelic Acid, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate, Candelilla Jojoba Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Benzyl Alcohol, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carnauba Cera, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dehydroacetic Acid, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Ethyl Ferulate, Humulus Lupulus Extract
## 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-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/mandelic-acid-treatment/for/dry-skin