Folliculitis is a common skin condition characterized by the inflammation of hair follicles. It presents as small, red, and often itchy bumps on areas of the body where hair grows. This condition can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections, friction from clothing, or even certain types of hair removal. Mandelic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds, effectively treats folliculitis due to its antibacterial and exfoliating properties. Its large molecular structure allows it to penetrate the skin slowly and gently, reducing irritation while helping exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. By doing so, mandelic acid prevents the buildup that can lead to follicle inflammation, resulting in clearer, smoother skin without the aggressive peeling associated with other AHAs.