S-Mandelic Acid is an optically active aromatic alpha-hydroxy acid obtained through chiral resolution of racemic mandelic acid or asymmetric synthesis. It serves as an important chiral building block in pharmaceutical chemistry and is extensively used as a resolving agent for racemic amines and alcohols in enantiopure drug production. In cosmetics, mandelic acid is valued as a gentle chemical exfoliant due to its larger molecular size compared to glycolic acid, resulting in slower skin penetration and reduced irritation. Its antibacterial properties make it effective for acne-prone skin.