Are They Dupes? The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA VS Stratia Soft Touch AHA

Last Updated on October 14, 2026 by Giorgia Guazzarotti

Are The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA and Stratia Soft Touch AHA dupes? Both contain 10% mandelic acid, an exfoliating acid that’s gentler on sensitive skin than glycolic acid. They promise the same thing: smoother, softer, brighter skin texture without the irritation that often comes with exfoliation. At first sight, the two are so similar, you could call them dupes. But when you dig deeper, the supporting ingredients, textures and prices tell a different story.

The verdict? The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA and Stratia Soft Touch AHA aren’t exact dupes, but they deliver similar results. The Ordinary gets my vote because it’s gentler on sensitive skin and cheaper, too. So, what makes The Ordinary exfoliating serum the better choice? Let’s compare the two.

The Ordinary Mandelic Acid vs Stratia Soft Touch AHA: At A Glance

What Ingredients Do The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA And Stratia Soft Touch AHA Have In Common?

MANDELIC ACID TO EXFOLIATE SKIN

Mandelic acid belongs to the same family as glycolic acid and lactic acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). But it’s twice its size. Literally. Mandelic is 152.1 daltons while glycolic 76. Size matters: because mandelic acid is so big, it penetrates skin more slowly and not as deeply as glycolic acid. That means it can dissolve the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together without irritation.

Once those dead cells are off your face, your skin is smoother, softer and brighter. Pores may look smaller too. And while it doesn’t single-handedly reduce breakouts, it helps prevent them (if dead cells are removed, they can’t clog pores). It’s just that mandelic takes a little longer than glycolic to work so don’t be surprised if you don’t see results immediately.

Mandelic acid isn’t good just for sensitive skin. It actually works better for oily skin that’s also sensitive. This acid also has antibacterial properties that help you get rid of P. Acnes, the bacteria that’s making you life so miserable.

I personally prefer glycolic and salicylic to mandelic acid. They’re smaller molecules so they work that little bit better. But if your skin’s so sensitive, it can’t tolerate them, mandelic acid makes for a fine alternative. Both Stratia Soft Touch AHA and The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA use 10% mandelic acid.

Related: AHAs VS BHA: Which One Should You Use?

HYALURONIC ACID TO HYDRATE SKIN

Hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet. Literally. Its job is to draw water from the air into the skin and bind it there. It’s so powerful, it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water! But what if there’s not enough moisture in the skin? Then, hyaluronic acid takes moisture from the deeper layers of your skin all the way up to the superficial layers.

It’s not as drying as you think. Your skin is made up of 64% water. Hyaluronic acid just redistributes it. Once the superficial layers have this extra hydration, it plumps up so fine lines looks smaller and takes on a dewy glow. FYI, both serums use sodium hyaluronate, the salt form of hyaluronic acid.

Related: Why You Should Add Hyaluronic Acid To Your Skincare Routine, No Matter Your Skin Type

Want more affordable dupes for expensive skincare products? Download your FREE “Skincare Dupes” cheatsheet and start saving money (without compromising on results) today:

The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA VS Stratia Soft Touch AHA: Which Formula Is Better?

Both The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA and Stratia Soft Touch AHA have anti-inflammatory ingredients that soothe redness, inflammation and irritation. The Ordinary uses Tasmanian pepperberry while Stratia opted for plain old chamomile.

The choice of preservatives is also different. The Ordinary opted for Caprylyl Glycol, a preservative that’s way gentler for sensitive skin. Its antimicrobial activity isn’t as strong, but it’ll still help to keep bacteria out of your exfoliant, so it’s safer for longer.

Lesson learned: when the main actives are the same, it’s those little ingredients no one pays much attention to that can make the difference.

Related: Parabens Alternatives: Which Ones Are Safe And Effective?

What’s The Texture Like?

The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA kinda feels like a light oil that’s surprisingly not heavy. Imagine a serum that almost glides on like water but with a tiny slickness that keeps it from feeling thirsty on your skin. It’s not greasy or sticky – more like a whisper of oil, just enough to make your skin feel like it got a little treat but still totally breathable. You won’t catch yourself waiting forever for it to dry because it settles down pretty quick, leaving your face soft but not slick.

Now, Stratia Soft Touch AHA is a totally different beast. This one’s got that cloudy, milky vibe going on, and it’s thicker, not like water at all. It’s creamy but not heavy – kind of like when you think “liquid silk.” It spreads effortlessly, almost like your skin drinks it up while you’re applying, and there’s no drama with it running everywhere or leaving you feeling sticky afterwards. It’s more of a “comfort hug” for your skin than just a treatment.

Packaging: Dropper vs Pump

If you’ve ever had anything from The Ordinary, you know what’s up: plain, no-frills amber bottle with a dropper. It’s all business, very “science lab meets skincare.” The dropper is chill for precise dosing, but if you’re in a rush, it can get a bit clumsy. Dropper tips sometimes drip or get product on the bottle neck. The vibe is humble and minimal, but you get the job done.

On the flip side, Stratia’s packaging is cooler in a more everyday, user-friendly way. It’s this white bottle with a pop of red and a pump that’s super easy to handle. No second-guessing how much you’re squeezing out and no messy spills on your vanity. Plus, it feels light and sturdy, kinda perfect for tossing in your bag or travel kit. Pump bottles just feel like your little life hack when you’re lazy (or not) at night.

How To Use Them

You can use both these leave-on products a couple of nights a week. If your skin can take it, you can increase frequency to every other night. Apply them on dry skin first from cleansing. Do not use them with retinoids on the same night. Think of these as your gentle exfoliating heroes – slowing down dead skin buildup, smoothing things out, and prepping your skin to soak up all the good stuff that comes after. Nighttime only, because that’s when they work best without getting irritated.

Which Is Better For Sensitive Skin: The Ordinary Mandelic Acid Or Stratia Soft Touch AHA?

Both Stratia Soft Touch AHA and The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA are good mandelic acid exfoliants. You can expect the same results from both. But if your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% is a gentler option. It’s cheaper, too.

Related: The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA Full Review

Price & Availability

Stratia Soft Touch AHA ($18.00): available at Stratia

The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA ($7.80): available at Asos, Cult Beauty, SpaceNK, The Ordinary, and Yes Style

FAQs

Can The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA And Stratia Soft Touch AHA Fade Dark Spots?

Yes. Both contain 10% mandelic acid, an AHA that exfoliates dead skin cells and helps fade superficial hyperpigmentation, including dark spots left behind by acne. Don’t expect overnight miracles, though. Dark spots take time to fade, and mandelic acid is not the best acid for the job. You’ll see results very slowly.

Do Mandelic Acid Serums Damage Your Skin Barrier?

They can if you overdo it. Mandelic acid is gentler than glycolic acid, but it’s still an exfoliant. Using either serum too often can lead to dryness, irritation and a damaged skin barrier. Start with two or three nights a week and see how your skin responds.

Do You Need Sunscreen When Using Mandelic Acid?

Yes. AHAs can increase sun sensitivity, making your skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning.

Can You Use Mandelic Acid Under Makeup?

Yes, but texture matters. The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA has a lightweight, slightly oily texture, while Stratia Soft Touch AHA feels creamier. Either can affect how makeup sits on your skin, depending on what you layer over it. Both are better suited to your evening skincare routine.

Are The Ordinary And Stratia Mandelic Acid Serums Rinse-Off Products?

No. Both are leave-on exfoliating treatments. Unlike rinse-off products, such as cleansers, they’re designed to remain on your skin after application. Apply to clean, dry skin and follow with your moisturiser. There’s no need to wash them off.