Succinic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid, has garnered attention in the cosmetic industry for its versatile benefits for the skin. This ingredient is not only effective in addressing imperfections but also plays a significant role in maintaining a radiant complexion. Below, we delve into the specific cosmetic products containing succinic acid and the scientific rationale behind its inclusion.
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Where Can We Find Succinic Acid in Cosmetics?
Summary
- Succinic Acid in Serums and Targeted Treatments
- Succinic Acid in Creams and Lotions
- Succinic Acid in Gels for Oil Control
- Succinic Acid in Face Masks
- Succinic acid in Products for Acne-Prone Skin
- Succinic acid in Hair Care Products
- Sources
Published November 7, 2024,
updated on November 18, 2024,
by
Jamal, PhD, Doctor of human pathology and infectious diseases
—
7 min read
Succinic Acid in Serums and Targeted Treatments.
Serums are concentrated treatments with rapid absorption, ideal for addressing imperfections with powerful active ingredients like succinic acid. Serums containing succinic acid are especially effective for blemish-prone skin due to their lightweight texture, which promotes deep and fast absorption. This quick penetration enables succinic acid to target imperfections with a suitable concentration, promoting cell proliferation and delivering intensive benefits for skin radiance and hydration.
At Typology, you can find succinic acid in our Blemishes Day Serum. Formulated with 98% natural-origin ingredients, this treatment combines the antibacterial and exfoliating properties of succinic acid with the seboregulating power of copper PCA to reduce all types of imperfections. Use over the whole face, after cleansing and drying.
Succinic Acid in Creams and Lotions.
Daily creams and lotions with succinic acid are ideal for maintaining skin suppleness and firmness. These products provide the ideal texture for delivering succinic acid’s skin-firming and anti-aging benefits, as they enable gradual and steady absorption suitable for all skin types.
Succinic Acid in Gels for Oil Control.
Gels are often recommended for oily and combination skin types due to their lightweight, non-greasy texture. Gels enriched with succinic acid are particularly suited for oily or combination skin, thanks to their refreshing, non-greasy formulation. This type of product capitalizes on succinic acid's oil-regulating properties, helping to control sebum production, reduce shine, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits, all while avoiding pore blockage.
Succinic Acid in Face Masks.
Face masks formulated with succinic acid provide deep hydration and are often applied in a semi-thick layer to maximize their effects. Succinic acid-based masks, typically applied in a semi-thick layer for several minutes, offer intensive hydration and help strengthen the skin barrier. This formulation allows succinic acid to remain in contact with the skin for an extended period, promoting lasting moisture and a smoother skin texture.
Succinic acid in Products for Acne-Prone Skin.
Succinic acid is commonly included in acne-fighting products for its antimicrobial properties, effectively targeting acne-causing bacteria and reducing post-acne marks. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it ideal for acne-prone skin, helping to calm breakouts while addressing bacteria growth.
Succinic acid in Hair Care Products.
Succinic acid is not yet widely used in hair care products, with most research focusing on its skin benefits. However, recent studies have shown that succinic acid can improve hair flexibility and elasticity by reducing the stiffness of the outer hair layer, resulting in SHINAYAKA hair—hair that is supple and elastic. While more research is needed to fully understand its potential in hair care, the known effects on skin suggest promising applications for scalp and hair health.
The key takeaway.
Succinic acid is commonly found in serums, where its rapid absorption helps target skin imperfections, promote hydration, and improve skin radiance.
Succinic acid is also included in creams and lotions to maintain skin firmness, suppleness.
Succinic acid is effective in gel formulations, especially for oily and combination skin, offering oil-regulating properties and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Succinic acid-enriched face masks provide intensive hydration and help strengthen the skin barrier by staying on the skin for an extended period.
With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, succinic acid is frequently used in acne-fighting products to target bacteria, reduce breakouts, and prevent post-acne marks.
Although not widely used in hair care, succinic acid shows potential for improving hair flexibility and elasticity.
Sources
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CHUNG H. J. & al. Development and metabolic profiling of a postbiotic complex exhibiting antibacterial activity against skin microorganisms and anti-inflammatory effect on human keratinocytes. Food science and biotechnology (2022).
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