Mandelic Acid (CAS 611-72-3), chemically known as Alpha-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid, is a large-molecular-weight Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) utilizing its unique aromatic structure to provide gentle yet effective exfoliation for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Chemically identified as 2-Hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid, this white crystalline powder functions as a dual-action keratolytic and antibacterial agent. Unlike Glycolic Acid, its larger molecular size ensures slower skin penetration, significantly reducing irritation while its lipophilic properties allow it to target oil and sebum within the pores. Derived from the hydrolysis of bitter almond extract (or synthesized via benzaldehyde), it is extensively integrated into chemical peels, acne treatment serums, and anti-aging toners to treat hyperpigmentation, photo-aging, and inflammatory acne without causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). We ensure bulk supply capabilities for this material, providing access to competitive factory pricing and customized specifications to meet specific particle size and purity requirements (e.g., >99% Cosmetic Grade / DL-Mandelic Acid). Full technical documentation, including MSDS, TDS, COA, is available to support compliance and safety protocols.
Mandelic Acid CAS 611-72-3
- CAS: 611-72-3
- Synonyms: DL-Mandelic Acid, 2-Hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid, Alpha-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, Amygdalic acid, Phenylglycolic acid
- Einecs: 210-277-1
- Molecular Formula: C8H8O3
- Grade: Cosmetic Grade / Pharmaceutical Intermediate
- Package: 25kg/Cardboard Drum or Fiber Drum with double plastic lining (or customized).
Product Description
Mandelic Acid is a white crystalline powder derived from the hydrolysis of an extract of bitter almonds or synthesized chemically. Structurally, it is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) with a benzene ring.
Why choose Mandelic Acid?
- Gentle Exfoliation: Because its molecular weight (152.15 Da) is larger than that of Glycolic Acid (76.05 Da), it penetrates the skin more slowly and evenly, causing significantly less irritation. This makes it the preferred AHA for sensitive skin.
- Dual Action: It possesses both water-solubility and partial lipid-solubility, allowing it to work effectively on the skin surface and within pores.
- Antibacterial: It has natural antibacterial properties, making it highly effective for acne-prone skin care.
Physicochemical Properties
| Parameter | Specification (Standard) |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or flake |
| Assay (Titration) | ≥ 99.0% |
| Melting Point | 118.0°C – 121.0°C |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 0.5% |
| Residue on Ignition (Ash) | ≤ 0.1% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 2 ppm |
| Turbidity | ≤ 10 NTU |
| Solubility | Freely soluble in water, ethanol, and ether. |
| Optical Rotation | ±0.5° (for DL-racemic mixture) |
Applications
Mandelic Acid is versatile and used across multiple sectors:
- Cosmetics & Personal Care (Primary Use):
- Acne Treatment: Used in cleansers and serums to unclog pores and reduce acne bacteria.
- Exfoliation: Promotes cell turnover to smooth skin texture.
- Hyperpigmentation: Helps fade dark spots, melasma, and sun damage.
- Recommended Dosage: Typically 2% – 10% in leave-on products; higher concentrations in professional peels.
- Pharmaceutical Industry:
- Intermediate: Used as a key intermediate for the synthesis of Cephalosporins, urinary antiseptics (Methenamine Mandelate), and antispasmodics.
- Reagent: Used as an analytical reagent.
- Dye Industry:
- Used extensively as a dye intermediate.
For another alpha-hydroxy acid raw material used in formulation work, see Glycolic Acid.
Storage Conditions
- Environment: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Packaging: Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
- Light: Protect from direct sunlight and strong light sources.
- Incompatibility: Store away from strong oxidizing agents and reducing agents.
Safety Precautions
- Handling: Mandelic Acid is an irritant. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to prevent inhalation of powder.
- First Aid:
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical advice.
- Skin Contact: Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen.
- Transport: Non-hazardous for road, sea, and air transport (standard chemical handling applies).
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Mandelic Acid CAS 611-72-3?
A: Mandelic Acid CAS 611-72-3 is an aromatic alpha-hydroxy acid with the formula C8H8O3 and molecular weight 152.15 g/mol. It is supplied as a white crystalline powder or flake and is used in cosmetic exfoliation and as a pharmaceutical intermediate. -
Q:
Why is Mandelic Acid considered gentler than Glycolic Acid?
A: Its molecular weight is about twice that of glycolic acid, which slows and evens out skin penetration. This can reduce the risk of irritation and makes it a common choice for sensitive skin, darker skin tones or first-time AHA users. -
Q:
What makes Mandelic Acid useful for acne-prone skin?
A: It has antibacterial properties in addition to exfoliating action, so it is often formulated in chemical peels, serums, cleansers and toners aimed at acne-prone or congested skin. The ingredient should be formulated at a pH and use level appropriate for the finished cosmetic product. -
Q:
What are the main quality parameters?
A: Typical specifications are white crystalline powder or flake, titration assay at least 99%, melting point 118-121 C, low loss on drying, residue on ignition, heavy metals and arsenic. It is freely soluble in water, ethanol and ether. -
Q:
How should Mandelic Acid CAS 611-72-3 be stored?
A: Store it sealed in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight. Keep containers closed when not in use and avoid contact with incompatible oxidizing conditions during handling.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.

