# The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-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 Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/exfoliators)

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

One of the best products for dry sensitive skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your dry and sensitive skin as mandelic acid effectively exfoliates while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer provide superior hydration and humectant benefits. Pentylene glycol further supports emollient action, ensuring comfort and preventing dryness.
- Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract offers additional soothing properties, complementing the formula's hydrating and exfoliating functions for your dry or flaky skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and featuring a blend of soothing agents that minimize irritation risk.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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 help with dryness. Start ⏳3 times a week only if your sensitive skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but always before your favorite moisturizer .
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and avoid any rubbing. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before layering.
- Since your skin is reactive and sensitive, apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for better tolerance.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This exfoliant is one of the best fits because mandelic acid gently lifts away dead cells while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate bring much-needed moisture to dry skin. Added soothing plant extracts help keep irritation at bay, ensuring your skin stays calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Mandelic acid makes this exfoliant a great fit because it gently removes dead skin cells while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate bring in deep hydration. Pentylene glycol and tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract help keep your dry sensitive skin calm, comfortable, and well protected against dryness.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Mandelic acid is very well tolerated by sensitive skin, and it helps smooth out rough patches and improves firmness without causing too much irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796684/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

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

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine once a week to gently smooth your dry sensitive skin without causing irritation. You may carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results.

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

You can use this exfoliant in your evening routine, but it is best to avoid applying it on the exact same nights as your retinol to minimize irritation. Use mandelic acid on separate nights, making sure to follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin feeling soft and calm.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin feels comfortable and tolerates it well, you may carefully use it more often. This gentle approach helps prevent dryness and irritation while still giving you smooth skin.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores, and initial purging is low for dry sensitive skin. The formula includes soothing and hydrating ingredients that help keep your skin calm and comfortable.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €160.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €474.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.00 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €8.95 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B07BGJMNYL?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €9.00 (https://www.notino.nl/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1-gladmakend-exfolierend-serum/p-16204765/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 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/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/mandelic-acid-10-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin