L-mandelic acid

L-mandelic acid (CAS 17199-29-0), also known as (S)-mandelic acid, is a chiral alpha-hydroxy acid used as a stereospecific building block and active ingredient across pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing. Its defined stereochemistry makes it a preferred starting material where enantiomeric purity is a critical specification. In pharmaceutical synthesis, it serves as a chiral intermediate for producing antibiotics.

It is also used for antispasmodics and other APIs where a single enantiomer is required for regulatory compliance. Cosmetic formulators incorporate it into chemical exfoliant products such as peels, serums, and toners. In these applications, it provides keratolytic action with a gentler skin tolerance profile than glycolic acid. In topical antimicrobial formulations, its preservative and biocidal properties support product stability.

It also functions as a pH buffer and stabilizer in specialty formulations where controlled acidity is needed without introducing racemic impurities. L-mandelic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to USP and Ph. Eur. specifications, with enantiomeric excess (ee%) a standard quality parameter for pharma procurement.

Cosmetic and technical grades are also commercially available for buyers with less stringent stereochemical requirements. This ensures versatility across various industrial and laboratory applications.