Succinic Acid vs Salicylic Acid: Which One is Superior?

What are Succinic Acid and Salicylic Acid?

Succinic acid is broadly distributed throughout the natural world, particularly in amber (3–8% by weight), plant and animal tissues, and in microorganisms. Its use in skincare has been on the rise due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-repairing properties. Succinic acid assists in diminishing skin imperfections, possesses antioxidant properties, maintains collagen and regulates cell proliferation. Contrary to some stronger acids, it is deemed gentle, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Salicylic acid is a renowned beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) predominantly utilised to tackle blemishes and blocked pores. It is extracted from willow bark and penetrates deeply into the pores, functioning to dissolve surplus oil and exfoliate dead skin cells. This renders it highly effective in diminishing blackheads, whiteheads, and blemish outbreaks. However, salicylic acid can occasionally provoke irritation or dryness, particularly for those with sensitive or dry skin.

Succinic Acid versus Salicylic Acid: Principal Distinctions.

Mechanisms of Action.

Succinic Acid: Succinic acid operates by diminishing sebum (oil) production and impeding bacterial proliferation on the skin. As a dicarboxylic acid, it disrupts the activity of sebaceous glands, curbing excessive oil secretion. This aids in preventing blocked pores and lessens the likelihood of breakouts. Moreover, its antimicrobial properties target imperfections-inducing bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes, a primary offender in imperfections formation. Its function in reducing bacteria and managing oil makes it a multitasking ingredient for harmonising the skin.
Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, enabling it to infiltrate deep into pores filled with sebum. It operates by breaking down the bonds that keep dead skin cells intact, facilitating their removal. This unblocks pores and aids in reducing blackheads and whiteheads. Its keratolytic effect also exfoliates the outer layer of the skin, promoting cellular renewal. Salicylic acid's deep-cleansing action is particularly beneficial for those with oily or blemish-prone skin.

Skin Type Compatibility.

Succinic Acid: Succinic acid is recognised for being milder and more appropriate for sensitive skin types. Besides combating imperfections, it moisturises the skin and fortifies the skin barrier, which aids in preventing irritation or dryness. Its calming anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal ingredient for those with reactive or easily irritated skin, whilst still effectively fighting blemishes.
Salicylic Acid: Ideally suited for oily and blemish-prone skin, salicylic acid is a potent exfoliant. However, in elevated concentrations or for those with sensitive skin, it may induce dryness, flaking, or irritation. Its vigorous pore-cleansing activity can occasionally undermine the skin’s barrier, rendering it more susceptible to sensitivity.

Exfoliation Capability.

Succinic Acid: Succinic acid is thought to offer mild surface exfoliation, delicately eliminating dead skin cells and enhancing overall texture and tone. However, there is limited scientific research directly affirming its exfoliating effects. Whilst its role in encouraging cell renewal and preserving moisture may imply these benefits, additional studies are required to confirm its efficacy as an exfoliant without inducing peeling or redness.
Salicylic Acid: A more profound exfoliant, salicylic acid unblocks pores by disintegrating oil and detritus within them, making it perfect for stubborn blemishes and blackheads. It offers a more vigorous exfoliation, which may result in noticeable peeling or flaking. This can aid in enhancing skin texture, but may necessitate cautious application to prevent over-exfoliation, particularly for sensitive skin.

Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Characteristics.

Succinic Acid: Its anti-inflammatory characteristics aid in alleviating redness and irritation, making it particularly advantageous for pacifying blemish-prone or sensitive skin. It diminishes inflammation by obstructing key inflammatory pathways in the skin, whilst also safeguarding the skin’s barrier. Succinic acid’s antimicrobial activity targets the bacteria accountable for blemishes, assisting in preventing future flare-ups whilst also reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Salicylic Acid: Whilst salicylic acid also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, its principal role is to unblock pores and avert blemish eruptions. It diminishes swelling and redness in active outbreaks and can assist in preventing new ones from developing by maintaining clean pores. However, it lacks the hydrating and barrier-supporting effects of succinic acid, which may render it less appropriate for dry or sensitive skin.

Can Succinic Acid Supersede Salicylic Acid?

Whilst succinic acid bears some similarities with salicylic acid, it cannot wholly substitute it in terms of efficacy for specific skin issues. If you possess sensitive skin and require a milder solution for blemishes, succinic acid is a superior choice. However, for those grappling with persistent spots, blocked pores, and blackheads, salicylic acid continues to be more powerful due to its deep-penetrating characteristics.

Complementary Utilisation of Succinic Acid and Salicylic Acid.

In certain instances, succinic acid and salicylic acid can be utilised in conjunction to establish a balanced skincare regimen. For instance, salicylic acid can serve as a profound exfoliant whilst succinic acid can pacify the skin and supply additional hydration, reducing the likelihood of irritation. Products that incorporate these acids provide the advantages of both without jeopardising skin health.

Which Acid is Suitable for You?

Opting for either succinic acid or salicylic acid hinges on your skin type and skincare objectives:

For sensitive or dry skin: Succinic acid is a gentle substitute that can decrease oil, prevent blemishes, and alleviate irritation without causing excessive dryness.
For oily or blemish-prone skin: Salicylic acid's capacity to exfoliate profoundly and unblock pores makes it the superior choice for tackling persistent blemishes and blackheads.

In conclusion, whilst succinic acid and salicylic acid possess intersecting advantages, their distinct potencies render them appropriate for diverse skincare requirements. Succinic acid is a gentler option for sensitive skin, whereas salicylic acid provides more robust outcomes for those grappling with regular blemishes and blocked pores.