With Which Other Active Ingredients Can Succinic Acid Be Combined?

Advantage: Whilst this combination is believed to aid in reducing noticeable blemishes, breakouts, and soothing irritated skin, it is crucial to highlight that there are presently no specific studies investigating their combined effects.

Properties: Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), penetrates deeply into the pores, effectively exfoliating from within by dissolving excess sebum and dead skin cells. Succinic acid is thought to augment this action by inhibiting the proliferation of bacteria, reducing inflammation, and preventing the formation of new blemishes. However, without dedicated research on their combination, caution is recommended when utilising these ingredients together.

Advantage: This amalgamation improves the look of uneven skin pigmentation, redness, and irritation whilst guaranteeing optimal hydration.

Properties: Niacinamide, also recognised as vitamin B3, possesses anti-inflammatory properties and fortifies the skin barrier, aiding in the reduction of sensitivity and redness. When combined with succinic acid, it assists in regulating surplus oil production whilst soothing and calming the skin.

Recent clinical research has substantiated the effectiveness of this combination. One study assessing a lotion containing niacinamide and succinic acid demonstrated significant enhancements in subjects with mild to moderate truncal blemishes after eight weeks of use. The study observed a decrease in the relative abundance of Cutibacterium acnes, which is linked with blemishes, alongside remarkable reductions in blemish severity, inflammatory lesions, erythema, and desquamation. Furthermore, another study underscored similar findings, stressing that the facial cream gel effectively rebalanced skin microbiota and improved overall skin health.

Whilst these studies suggest promising advantages, additional research is still required to investigate the full scope of their combined effects. On the whole, this combination can contribute to a more balanced and serene complexion, offering a comprehensive approach to managing blemishes.

Advantage: Both constituents are recognised to be advantageous for oily skin types.

Properties: Zinc PCA, a compound derived from zinc and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, regulates sebum production and offers antibacterial protection, rendering it effective for managing surplus oil and averting blocked pores. Succinic acid enhances these effects by diminishing the proliferation of bacteria that cause blemishes whilst providing soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits[15]. Together, they may assist in maintaining a matte and balanced complexion without depriving the skin of its natural moisture.

Whilst the singular properties of succinic acid and zinc PCA have been recorded, there are presently no specific studies investigating their effects in conjunction. Nonetheless, their individual actions propose a promising method for managing oily skin and conditions prone to imperfections.

Advantage: This blend encourages a more taut-looking complexion and diminishes the appearance of fine lines.

Properties: Retinol is widely acknowledged for its capacity to speed up skin cell renewal and stimulate collagen production, which can aid in reducing the visibility of fine lines and enhancing overall skin texture. However, retinol can occasionally result in irritation or dryness. Succinic acid, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, may assist in alleviating potential irritation linked with retinol, whilst also bolstering its pro-collagen effects. This combination provides a potentially more comfortable method of utilising retinoids.

Whilst the individual properties of succinic acid and retinol have been thoroughly documented, there are presently no specific studies examining their effects in combination. Nonetheless, their synergistic actions suggest a promising strategy for enhancing skin texture and firmness.

Advantage: This blend is believed to encourage mild exfoliation, possibly resulting in smoother and more radiant skin.

Properties: Glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), operates on the surface of the skin to dissolve dead skin cells, which may contribute to a brighter and more even complexion. When coupled with succinic acid, this combination can provide an efficient exfoliating action whilst minimising the risk of over-drying the skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of succinic acid may help reduce irritation that can sometimes occur with acid exfoliation, making this duo a suitable choice for those seeking a gentle yet efficient exfoliating regimen.

Whilst the individual benefits of succinic acid and glycolic acid have been documented, there are currently no specific studies examining their effects in combination. Nevertheless, their complementary properties suggest a potential approach to achieving smoother and more radiant skin.

Advantage: This blend efficiently enhances skin hydration, augmenting the skin and diminishing the visibility of fine lines whilst also tackling hyperpigmentation.

Properties: Hyaluronic acid is a potent humectant that attracts moisture into the skin, aiding in the maintenance of optimal hydration levels. Succinic acid complements hyaluronic acid by encouraging a healthier skin barrier and reducing inflammation, ensuring that the skin remains both hydrated and tranquil. Clinical studies have demonstrated that formulations containing both hyaluronic and succinic acids are well tolerated and can expedite skin regeneration, restore normal hydration, and even normalise pigment formation, making them effective for treating hyperpigmentation. This combination is ideal for those seeking to maintain moisture equilibrium, alleviate irritation, and achieve a more even skin tone, resulting in skin that appears plump and rejuvenated.

• MACGREGOR J. & al. The Particularity of Retinoid-Induced Irritation and Its Function in Clinical Effectiveness. Exogenous Dermatology (2002).

• RHEIN L. & al. Targeted delivery of salicylic acid from blemish treatment products into and through skin: role of solution and ingredient properties and relationships to irritation. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2004).

• BELLEMERE G. & al. Anti-ageing Action of Retinol: From Molecular to Clinical. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (2009).

• PADULA C. & al. Combined Patch Containing Salicylic Acid and Nicotinamide: Role of Drug Interaction. Current Drug Delivery (2010).

• CECCARELLI M. Addressing hyperpigmentation utilising a blend of hyaluronic and succinic acids. International Journal of Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine (2011).

• ANDRADE J. P. & al. Advantages of a dermocosmetic formulation with vitamins B3 and a B6 derivative combined with zinc-PCA for mild inflammatory blemishes and blemish-prone skin. BBR (2018).

• ABENDROT M. & al. Zinc-containing compounds for personal care applications. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018).

• TANG S. C. & al. Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin. Molecules (2018).

• PUROHIT A. & al. Anti-Salmonella Effects of Pyruvic and Succinic Acid in Conjunction with Oregano Essential Oil. Meat and Muscle Biology (2019).

• CHUNG H. J. & al. Development and metabolic profiling of a postbiotic complex demonstrating antibacterial activity against skin microorganisms and anti-inflammatory effect on human keratinocytes. Food Science and Biotechnology (2022).

• DE LUCAS R. New clinical approach to mild-moderate facial imperfections: Re-establishing skin microbiota equilibrium with a topical biotechnological phytocomplex. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2024).

• GUERRA-TAPIA A. & al. A novel topical biotechnological phytocomplex for mild-moderate truncal blemishes restores skin microbiota equilibrium. Skin Research and Technology (2024).