Succinic Acid is Skincare's Newest Acne Fighter

AHAs like glycolic acid, BHAs like salicylic acid, and PHAs like lactobionic acid are all chemical peels that rid the face of dead skin, gently cleanse the pores, and lighten pigment spots and acne scars. These powerful ingredients have long been established in our skincare routines as forces for a clearer complexion. This year, another super ingredient will be added, which is intended to specifically help with acne: succinic acid

Most people know that amber is a brownish-yellow gemstone that is said to have healing properties. In fact, it's also a fossil resin that leaked from trees millions of years ago and hardened within a very short time. Amber has petrified into stone but remains an organic material.

Dr. Golnaz Delir, a specialist in dermatology and venereology at the Kuzbari Center in Vienna, knows about the special properties of succinic acid: “Succinic acid, called succinylic acid or butanedioic acid, naturally occurs in amber, but is also found in many plant juices such as rhubarb or tomatoes. It is also an intermediate metabolic product in the citric acid cycle and also occurs in the urea cycle. It is not alien to the body and is therefore used in numerous local therapies and creams."

And not without reason: succinic acid not only gently removes dead skin cells—similar to salicylic acid—thanks to its mild peeling effect, but is also suitable “as an energy booster for cells," says Dr. Delir. In addition, succinic acid inhibits "microorganisms such as bacteria," which is why it's an effective active ingredient to treat acne.

The healing properties of succinic acid include:

• mild peeling effect
• clears clogged pores
• antimicrobial effect
• anti-inflammatory
• supports cell renewal
• has an antioxidant effect
• protects against free radicals
• restores the skin's pH balance

In the cosmetic field, the skin-improving properties of succinic acid are becoming more and more important. The Inkey List, for example, has launched the Succinic Acid Blemish Treatment, which is applied selectively to alleviate inflamed acne. The treatment contains two percent succinic acid from corn in combination with one percent salicylic acid and 0.4 percent hyaluronic acid. Pimples are reduced, excess sebum is removed, and the formation of new skin impurities is prevented.

The Biotec Skin Energizing Night Cream from the British skincare brand Elemis with succinic acid and a bio-energy complex of encapsulated copper and zinc supports and maintains cell renewal. The cream strengthens the natural skin barrier overnight and ensures a radiant, revitalized complexion when you wake up.

The cosmetic brand Perricone MD relies on the power of succinic acid combined with lactic acid in its Blemish Relief Calming Treatment & Hydrator. The treatment frees the skin from bacteria that can cause impurities and soothes the complexion. Niacinamide also helps heal inflamed pimples.

Chemical peels remove dead skin cells and reveal new, delicate skin. Since this is particularly sensitive to light, a product with an SPF of at least 30 should be your daily skincare companion.