Acne-prone skin today has a wider range of cosmetic active ingredients than ever before. Niacinamide, glycolic and lactic acids, salicylic acid… and now succinic acid. Less known to the general public, this active ingredient is gaining ground in dermatological and hair care thanks to its effectiveness on imperfections, its sebum-regulating action and its tolerance on sensitive skin.
An antibacterial and sebum-regulating active ingredient for the skin
“Succinic acid is a dicarboxylic acid naturally occurring in living organisms“, explains Marie-Dominique Larrey, manager of healthy skin active ingredients at Pierre Fabre Laboratories. Used in cosmetics in its biosynthetic form — obtained from yeast and corn — it acts directly on the strain Cutibacterium acnesresponsible for acne.
But its benefits don’t stop there: it also has keratolytic properties, which means that it exerts a light peeling action, promoting cell renewal. Its sebum-regulating effects help limit excess sebum, a key factor in the appearance of imperfections. A study published in 2018 on Technology confirmed the effectiveness of this active ingredient on problem skin, reinforcing its appeal for modern cosmetic formulations.
Surprising benefits for the scalp
Succinic acid isn’t just for the face. It also works on the scalp by targeting yeast Malassezia furfurresponsible for dandruff. By regulating sebum and cleansing the scalp, it reduces the appearance of dandruff and contributes to healthier hair. It is therefore integrated into certain shampoos and hair treatments, offering dual beauty-skin action.
How to use it daily?
Unlike other anti-acne active ingredients that are often irritating, succinic acid is compatible with sensitive skin. It can be applied locally or all over the face, in the form of a serum or cream. However, it is recommended not to combine it with powerful exfoliating active ingredients such as retinol or vitamin C in order to avoid over-exfoliation.
On the hair side, application is done via shampoos containing the active ingredient, according to the product instructions. Its versatility and softness make it an interesting asset for complete beauty routines.
Our selection of products containing succinic acid:
SOSKIN Meladerm Radiance Cleansing Foam
Meladerm anti-dark spot radiance serum from SOSKIN
Kelual Squanorm refreshing anti-dandruff shampoo by Ducray
Trio-Zinc anti-aging and blemish booster serum from Novexpert
Avène Cleanance AHA Exfoliating Serum