Succinic acid is a dicarboxylic acid used in skincare for mild exfoliation, oil control, and antimicrobial effects, often targeting acne-prone skin. It also functions as a buffering agent to adjust formulation pH.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild skin irritation or stinging | Common | Transient tingling, especially at higher concentrations or on sensitive skin |
Skin dryness or flaking | Uncommon | Related to its exfoliating action |
Redness or erythema | Uncommon | Usually temporary and resolves after discontinuation |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reported in sensitized individuals |
Severe burning or blistering | Very rare | Associated with misuse or very high concentrations |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.