All the ways succinic acid can boost your complexion this summer

Star InactiveStar InactiveStar InactiveStar InactiveStar Inactive
 

All the ways succinic acid can boost your complexion this summer

If you think succinic acid sounds like the last thing you’d like to slather on your cheeks, we don’t blame you. Phonetics aside, though, there’s a lot this multi-tasking wonder can do for your skin – from minimising fine lines, boosting hydration, providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and so much more. Below, we take a deep dive into the why, what and how of the new name to know in skincare.

From improving acne to boosting hydration, there's a lot this little-known skincare ingredient can do. Plus, the best formulas to try.
 
JGI/Jamie GrillFrom improving acne to boosting hydration, there's a lot this little-known skincare ingredient can do. Plus, the best formulas to try.

First up: what is succinic acid?

‘Succinic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in sugar cane and also in amber,' explains aesthetic doctor and skin expert, Dr Sophie Shotter. 'It has been harnessed by the skincare industry and synthetic versions are now more readily available.’ she continues. That would be thanks to biotechnology (the process of biology and chemistry) which reinvents synthetic ingredients–like succinic acid–in a lab.

Think of it less as an exfoliating acid, and more in the same ‘acid’ camp as hyaluronic acid, says Dr Kemi Fabusiwa. In short, it's the kind of acid that cleans your pores, soothes skin and adds hydration, making it an excellent choice if you have oily skin.

What are the benefits of using succinic acid on your face?

It targets fine lines

‘Succinic acid helps to boost your cellular renewal, which means it’s helping to boost how well your skin cells are functioning,' says Dr Shotter. 'It’s also a powerful antioxidant, helping to counteract oxidative stress in the skin.' The former promotes skin rejuvenation leaving your complexion looking firm, and the latter protects the skin and keeps it looking bright.

It helps acne-prone skin

Acne-prone skin? ‘Succinic acid also helps control sebum (oil) production and bacteria levels in the skin, making it useful for those who suffer from breakouts,' says Dr Shotter.

It gets rid of blackheads

Succinic acid is an effective anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial ingredient that helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria, explains Dr Fab. 'Because of this, it is a fantastic ingredient for blemishes, blackheads and inflammatory lesions; helping to combat the acne without compromising the skin’s barrier.' The skin barrier: in other words, the glue that holds everything together; the outermost layer of skin.

It boosts hydration

Though succinic acid is best known for its ability to control sebum (oil) production, it's also an excellent hydrator. That's because its structure is similar to that of our skin's own lipids (or fats).

It's gentle on the skin

Another pro? It's a lot more gentle compared with other skincare acids. So if your skin is acne-prone and sensitive, this major multi-tasker is unlikely to cause your skin to react.

Which skin types can use it?

Succinic acid is an excellent ingredient for pretty much everyone, but particularly those with breakout prone (mild to moderate acne) or oily skin. It can also be an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive skin and ageing concerns who'd like to address lines and wrinkles but are often prone to irritation.

'Succinic Acid is great for those who are prone to breakouts due to oily skin because it helps to reduce the excess oil on our skin and decrease the size of our pores,’ agrees Dr Fab. ‘If you have acne that has formed nodules or cysts or is leaving behind hyperpigmentation, then it might be worth speaking to your GP for prescription strength medication that can be used alongside the succinic acid.' For instance, you can use succinic acid in the morning and a prescription strength retinol at night, she continues.

As mentioned, it’s also suitable for those with sensitive skin. ‘This is a great ingredient for those with more sensitive skin types as it is a kind-to-skin ingredient yet still effective,' explains Dr Fab.

Are there any ingredients to avoid with succinic acid?

Unlike retinol, AHAs vitamin C, this gentle ingredient doesn't have any skincare foes. But that doesn't mean you can liberally apply every ingredient under the sun. 'Whilst it is a gentle treatment, it is still advisable not to combine it alongside other strong actives in the same routine but rather to use it alongside ingredients like hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin’s barrier,' Dr Fab urges.

Dr Shotter also advises using it in the serum stage of your routine (after your cleanser) as it’s a small molecule and won’t penetrate through heavy creams.

Are there any side effects of using it?

Not usually, say Dr Shotter, as it’s a very well tolerated ingredient.' ‘But if you have particularly sensitive or reactive skin, then maybe introduce it slowly.’ 

Reference: Women's Health: Amelia Bell  

Who's On Line

We have 116 guests and no members online

Subscribe to Newsletters
Please wait

We use cookies on our website. Some of them are essential for the operation of the site, while others help us to improve this site and the user experience (tracking cookies). You can decide for yourself whether you want to allow cookies or not. Please note that if you reject them, you may not be able to use all the functionalities of the site.

Ok
X

Right Click

No right click