Succinic Acid Acne Treatment
Succinic Acid Acne Treatment
Product Description
Product overview
A non-drying, gentle, and targeted acne spot treatment that combines 2% Succinic Acid, 2% Sulfur, and 1% Salicylic Acid to visibly reduce blemish size, control excess oil, and unclog pores—all while layering seamlessly under makeup without flaking.
Triple-Action Formula
Combines Succinic Acid, Sulfur, and Salicylic Acid to target blemishes from multiple angles—reducing size, controlling oil, and unclogging pores.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Action Formula
Combines Succinic Acid, Sulfur, and Salicylic Acid to target blemishes from multiple angles—reducing size, controlling oil, and unclogging pores.
Non-Drying Hydration
Includes 0.4% Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane to maintain skin hydration while treating breakouts—no flaking or tightness.
Makeup-Friendly
Absorbs quickly with no pilling or crusting, layers perfectly under makeup. Green tint disappears completely once absorbed.
Antioxidant Protection
Contains Malachite Extract for antioxidant benefits, helping protect skin from environmental stressors while treating blemishes.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% Salicylic Acid. While under the 2% threshold considered safe by ACOG, the brand states "Not recommended for pregnant women." Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Not safe. Contains potential triggers: Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, and Sorbitan Isostearate which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Formulated to be gentle. The cream base with Squalane and Hyaluronic Acid helps buffer active ingredients. Always patch test first.
If layering with other actives (AHAs/BHAs, Retinol), use this product separately or on alternate days to avoid irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSuccinic Acid 2%Promising
A gentle dicarboxylic acid derived from corn that helps reduce blemish size and oil production. Studies suggest it may outperform salicylic acid in sebum reduction while being gentler on skin.
- Mechanism: Inhibits P. acnes bacteria growth and reduces sebum production
- Research: Studies show effectiveness in reducing acne lesions with less irritation than traditional BHAs
- Fun Fact: Historically known as "spirit of amber" as it was originally derived from distilling amber
Colloidal Sulfur 2%Proven
A time-tested acne fighter that absorbs excess oil and unclogs pores. Works antibacterially while promoting gentle exfoliation without over-drying.
- Mechanism: Keratolytic action breaks down dead skin cells; antimicrobial properties target acne-causing bacteria
- Research: Used in dermatology for over a century; FDA-recognized acne treatment ingredient
- Bonus: Also effective for anti-dandruff applications
Salicylic Acid 1%Proven
A BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within. Helps shrink blemishes and blackheads while preventing future breakouts.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, penetrates pore lining to dissolve sebum and dead cell buildup
- Research: FDA-approved OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentration
- Anti-inflammatory: Related to aspirin, provides calming benefits to inflamed skin
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.4%Proven
The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid that hydrates skin by attracting and holding water. Counteracts potential drying effects from acne-fighting actives.
- Mechanism: Humectant that holds up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefit: Prevents the tight, dry feeling common with acne treatments
Squalane <1%Supporting
A lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient that mimics skin's natural sebum. Provides moisture without clogging pores or adding shine.
- Compatibility: Suitable for acne-prone skin; won't aggravate breakouts
- Source: Typically plant-derived (sugarcane or olives)
Malachite Extract TraceSupporting
Antioxidant-rich mineral extract that helps protect skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage while treating breakouts.
- Benefit: Provides antioxidant protection to support skin healing
- Visual: Contributes to the product's distinctive green color along with Chlorophyllin
22 ingredients
Water (Aqua/Eau), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Colloidal Sulfur, Glycerin, Succinic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Squalane, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polysorbate 60, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Dehydroacetic Acid, Malachite Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, CI 75810 (Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as a spot treatment to active blemishes only. Can be used AM and/or PM, up to 3x daily. Let dry for 10 minutes before layering other products.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. The brand recommends their Salicylic Acid Cleanser for acne-prone skin.
Apply Hydrating Serum (Optional)
If using Hyaluronic Acid serum, apply it first and let it absorb before proceeding.
Target Active Blemishes
Place a small amount directly onto the blemish using clean fingers. Use only on active spots, not as an all-over treatment.
Let It Dry
Wait 10 minutes before applying moisturizer, sunscreen, or makeup to allow full absorption.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You experience occasional breakouts or hormonal acne
- Traditional acne treatments dry out your skin
- You need a spot treatment that works under makeup
- You want a budget-friendly acne solution
- You have oily or combination skin prone to blemishes
- You're looking for a non-prescription acne treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You're allergic to aspirin or salicylates
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin
- You need treatment for severe cystic acne
- You're sensitive to sulfur products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Sulfur and Succinic Acid help control excess sebum without stripping the skin. Absorbs quickly without adding shine.
Works well as a targeted spot treatment on oilier zones without disrupting drier areas. Non-drying formula is key.
Designed specifically for this skin type. Triple-action formula targets multiple causes of breakouts effectively.
Works well for occasional breakouts. Gentle enough for regular use when needed without disrupting skin balance.
Gentler than many acne treatments thanks to hydrating ingredients. Patch test recommended. Start with once daily use.
Non-drying formula helps, but those with very dry skin should follow with extra moisturizer and limit frequency of use.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSReduced Inflammation
Many users report visibly reduced redness and swelling of active blemishes after just one application overnight.
70% noticed improvementSmaller Blemish Size
With consistent 1-2x daily application, blemishes begin to flatten and diminish in size noticeably.
80% noticed improvementClearer Complexion
Active breakouts resolve faster than without treatment. Pores appear less congested with regular spot treatment use.
85% noticed improvementPrevention Benefits
Regular users report fewer new breakouts forming. The formula helps prevent pores from clogging again after treatment.
75% noticed fewer new breakoutsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visibly reduces blemish size overnight
- Non-drying formula with hydrating ingredients
- Layers seamlessly under makeup without flaking
- Affordable price point for quality ingredients
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin types
- Clean, vegan, and cruelty-free formulation
- Fast absorption with natural matte finish
- Can be used up to 3x daily for stubborn spots
Criticized
- Small 15ml tube size for the price
- Noticeable sulfur scent (though it fades)
- Green tint visible until fully absorbed
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Some report reduced effectiveness over time
- Not recommended during pregnancy
- Won't work for severe cystic acne alone
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher salicylic acid concentration (2% vs 1%) in a larger 30ml bottle. Lacks sulfur and succinic acid but effective for pore clearing. Water-based formula may be more drying.
Higher sulfur concentration (10% vs 2%) for more intense treatment. Powder-to-cream format requires mixing. Better for stubborn spots but may be more drying.
Different active (Azelaic Acid) that targets acne and hyperpigmentation. Silicone-based formula with different texture. Good for post-acne marks but less immediate spot treatment action.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place (15-25°C / 59-77°F). Keep out of direct sunlight to preserve formula integrity.
Squeezable aluminum tube with screw cap. 100% recyclable packaging per The INKEY List's B Corp commitment.
Yes, 15ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in toiletry bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe product contains 1% Salicylic Acid, which is under the 2% threshold that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers generally safe for topical use. However, The INKEY List explicitly states this product is "not recommended for pregnant women." If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before use. When breastfeeding, avoid applying to areas that may come in contact with your baby.
No, this product is NOT safe for fungal acne. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast including Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, and Sorbitan Isostearate. If you have fungal acne, look for products specifically formulated without these triggers.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Since this product already contains 1% Salicylic Acid (a BHA), layering additional acids can increase irritation risk. The brand recommends using Succinic Acid Treatment separately from other AHAs/BHAs or retinol, or on alternate days. Vitamin C can generally be used in the morning while using this treatment on spots at night.
This treatment works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The formula targets excess oil and breakouts while the Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane prevent over-drying. It's also suitable for sensitive skin due to its gentle formulation, though patch testing is always recommended. Those with very dry or eczema-prone skin should use sparingly and follow with extra moisturizer.
Many users report visible reduction in redness and inflammation overnight. Blemish size typically decreases noticeably within 3-5 days of consistent use. For prevention benefits and overall clearer skin, expect to use the product regularly for 2-4 weeks. Results vary based on acne severity and individual skin response.
Apply after cleansing and any water-based serums (like Hyaluronic Acid), but before moisturizer and sunscreen. Use as a spot treatment on active blemishes only—not as an all-over treatment. Wait 10 minutes before applying other products or makeup to allow full absorption.
The product has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5. While it contains some potentially comedogenic ingredients like Stearic Acid and Cetearyl Alcohol, these are balanced by pore-clearing actives (Salicylic Acid, Sulfur). Most users with acne-prone skin tolerate it well, but individual results may vary. The product is designed to unclog pores, not cause congestion.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The small 15ml size means most users finish the tube well before the 12-month mark with regular use.
Verdict: The INKEY List Succinic Acid Acne Treatment delivers impressive results for a budget-friendly spot treatment. Its triple-action formula effectively reduces blemish size and inflammation, often overnight, while the non-drying formulation sets it apart from harsher acne treatments. The combination of proven ingredients (Sulfur, Salicylic Acid) with the promising newcomer Succinic Acid offers a gentler approach without sacrificing efficacy. Minor drawbacks include the small tube size, slight sulfur scent, and unsuitability for fungal acne or pregnancy. Overall, an excellent choice for those with occasional breakouts seeking an affordable, gentle, makeup-friendly spot treatment.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|