Succinic acid is a natural dicarboxylic acid that is highly valued in the cosmetic industry for its numerous skin benefits. Used in various products, it offers moisturising, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This article explores the different forms of using succinic acid, its optimal concentrations for effectiveness, and the precautions to be taken. It also examines its use in hair care and oral intake.
What are the various uses of succinic acid for skin effects?
Summary
Published on December 3, 2024, by Jamal, PhD, Doctor of human pathology and infectious diseases — 7 min of reading
Themes:
Succinic acid can be applied to the skin.
The succinic acid can be incorporated into a variety of skin products, including:
Serums and essences: These products, rich in active ingredients, aim to target specific skin issues such as enlarged pores and skin texture, while providing intense hydration and promoting cellular renewal.
Moisturising Creams: They help to seal in hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, soothe inflammation, and improve skin elasticity.
Masks: Facial masks, used intermittently, provide a deep action to revitalise and deeply hydrate the skin.
Cleansers: These products assist in removing impurities and preparing the skin for subsequent care stages, contributing to a clearer and softer skin.
At what concentration should succinic acid be used?
To ensure the effectiveness and safety of the succinic acid in skincare, it is crucial to use appropriate concentrations. Although no study has established a definitive optimal concentration, products available on the market generally contain concentrations ranging between 0.4% and 5%. Below 0.4%, the moisturising effect may be insufficient, while above 5%, the risk of skin irritation increases, particularly for sensitive skin.
What are the best galenic forms for using succinic acid?
The galenic forms favoured to maximise the absorption of succinic acid include serums and creams, which allow for targeted application and optimal penetration into the skin. Gels and lotions, on the other hand, enable rapid absorption of succinic acid. To optimise its effectiveness, it is recommended to combine the succinic acid with active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, which enhance hydration and antioxidant properties. A mechanical effort, such as a facial massage, can enhance these effects by stimulating blood circulation and promoting the penetration of active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin. It is advised to adopt techniques such as gentle circular movements or the use of jade rollers for 5 to 10 minutes after each application to optimise the benefits of the succinic acid.
A closer look at the use of succinic acid in hair care.
Succinic acid offers numerous benefits for hair care. It is particularly effective in targeting issues such as scalp dryness, dull hair, and breakage. It is commonly found in formulations such as shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums, where it helps to revitalise the hair, enhance its shine, and soothe the scalp. Generally, a typical range for many active ingredients in hair care is often between 0.4% and 2%. To maximise its benefits, it is recommended to apply these products regularly, which helps to maintain healthy hair and improve its overall appearance. Moreover, the use of hair care products enriched with succinic acid, combined with gentle scalp massages, can promote better absorption and stimulate blood circulation, thereby strengthening the health of the hair follicles.
A cosmetic interest in the oral intake of succinic acid?
A study conducted in 2011 examined the effect of various concentrations of succinic acid in the diet of minks, focusing on pepsin activity and nutrient digestibility. Four groups of minks were fed diets containing 0.0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.8% succinic acid respectively. The results showed that the group receiving 0.4% succinic acid exhibited significantly improved pepsin activity and nutrient digestibility, as well as better fur growth.
These observations suggest that succinic acid could potentially have a positive impact on the hair growth cycle, although further research is required to confirm these effects in humans. Moreover, succinic acid is naturally present in various foods such as meats (particularly beef and pork), dairy products, certain vegetables (like spinach and beetroot), as well as in fruits like grapes. However, additional studies are needed to determine whether the concentrations of succinic acid present in foods are sufficient to achieve similar effects to those observed during the study.
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