Move Over Salicylic—Succinic Acid Is the New Acne Ingredient In Town

There’s an entire fleet of acne treatments to choose from. Salicylic acid—a beta hydroxy acid—is a known warrior against blemishes, as are benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, retinol, and even sulfur. 

Succinic acid for acne is another ingredient that’s rising in popularity, and it works in a unique way to bust breakouts. It’s not a new ingredient—it’s been around for a while, actually—but it’s gaining quite a bit of momentum as more people discover it’s prowess. 

“In recent years, there has been growing interest in succinic acid due to its potential applications in the beauty industry and its ability to support acne control with less reactivity than some more aggressive treatment option,” says Ava Shamban, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AvaMD. 

Here’s what you need to know about this ingredient, and whether it’s a viable acne treatment for you. 

What is Succinic Acid?

Unlike other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), succinct acid is an acid that more closely represents our skin’s own lipids.

“It’s known for its high level of antioxidant properties that help to correct cellular damage [and protect against] UV and environmental factors,” Dr. Shamban says. 

It also has a multitude of other skin benefits:

• Targets acne breakouts via antimicrobial properties that nix bacteria 
• Boosts skin cell turnover 
• Gently exfoliates 
• Balances oil/sebum production
• Soothes skin via anti-inflammatory properties 

Succinic Acid for Acne 

Succinic acid is particularly prized for its ability to target acne. But what makes it really special is that it does so from a variety of angles without being too harsh on your skin. It clears, balances, and soothes all at once. 

“It is a gentle exfoliant helping to remove dead skin cells, which supports cleaner pores and helps to prevent acne from forming—but without any reactivity,” Dr. Shamban says. “Since it restores the pH and skin barrier, it can be used by those with sensitive or reactive skin.”

Plus, succinic actually boosts both cellular renewal and the metabolic cell rate to help heal of acne. Its antimicrobial agent also controls bacteria while its acidity balanced sebum production on the skin. Another major benefit is that it has calming and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe skin and redness.  

You can use succinic acid alone, or you can pair it with other acne treatments if your skin tolerates layering. “It can also mix well with other antioxidants and ingredients like hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, retinoids, or even sulfur, so it blends nicely into formulations,” Dr. Shamban says. 

Best Succinic Acid Products to Try 

Given its gentle properties, Dr. Shamban says that  succinic acid is an ingredient that everyone can use. Here are some of our favorite options featuring this acne-busting ingredient. 

• Elemis Pro Collagen Energizing Marine Cleanser
• The Inkey List Succinic Acid Acne Treatment
• Face Theory Blemicalm TT1
• Rael Beauty Miracle Clear Succinic Acid Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser for Acne
• Cetaphil Gentle Clear Triple-Action Acne Treatment Serum for Sensitive Skin