Succinic acid is a natural product that has benefits for facial skin. It activates the work of epidermal cells, launches active restoration processes, improves the production of elastin and collagen. After starting to use the acid, metabolism starts and the removal of harmful microelements improves.
There are practically no restrictions on the use of the product; the aroma of the acid is pleasant and has a beneficial effect on the epidermis. Due to this, you can use it to prepare masks for dryness, dull color, wrinkles and other problems. Read more about how succinic acid can be useful for you in this review.
Useful properties of succinic acid in cosmetology
The acid has the following beneficial properties:
- increases the body's resistance to various diseases;
- the risk of diabetes is reduced (the element helps the pancreas regulate the volume of insulin production);
- prevents the growth of existing tumors and the formation of new ones;
- well-being improves in case of pathologies of the endocrine system;
- inflammation is stopped;
- toxins and waste are removed.
Succinic acid is a harmless substance if you do not exceed the dosage in recipes.
Succinic acid increases the effectiveness of the use of other medicines, but it is not recommended simply without consulting a doctor. Before starting therapy, especially internal therapy, be sure to talk to a specialist. Also read about masks with nicotinic acid in the article.
Succinic acid is a relatively harmless product. Conventionally means that it must be used carefully and according to the instructions.
The principle of action and effectiveness of acid in cosmetics
The acid is obtained from amber; it is represented by a scattering of tiny white crystals. For more convenient use, the element is compressed into tablets. It is easy to use the product in home cosmetology - you need to make a powder out of it and dissolve it in water until you obtain a colorless liquid.
An aqueous solution of succinic acid tablets has a sour smell and taste.
In cosmetology (including industrial), acid is one of the main analogues of coenzyme Q10. It effectively affects the immune system, activates cell function, and performs an antioxidant function. The cost of succinic acid is several times lower than the price of coenzyme.
Its regular use:
- promotes the launch of metabolism at the cellular level. Toxins and waste come out, regenerative processes proceed much faster, scars and wrinkles disappear, the epidermis is renewed;
- cleanses the sebaceous glands, relieves inflammatory processes;
- removes excess sebum if the epidermis is oily, eliminates the unpleasant feeling of tightness if it is dry;
- whitens – even freckles and stubborn age spots go away;
- saturates with valuable substances, increases elasticity and firmness;
- removes swelling;
- improves complexion, activates capillary blood circulation.
Succinic acid is well tolerated even by the delicate skin of the eyelids, so it is used to combat unaesthetic bags.
Action
Succinic acid even acts differently than most other active substances. Scientists call it “smart” because it can recognize healthy tissues and damaged ones. Localized around the latter, it exerts its regenerating effect on them. Moreover, the surrounding cells, with which there are no problems, remain completely untouched. This property is used by cosmetologists. Penetrating into the layers of the epidermis, succinates themselves find a “sore spot” and begin to “treat” it, be it pigment spots or foci of inflammation.
Succinic acid has a wide range of therapeutic and cosmetological effects:
- neutralizes and removes toxic metabolites and other harmful agents from the body;
- ensures the delivery of oxygen to cells - that’s why after its use, facial skin becomes so radiant and healthy;
- has general strengthening properties;
- relieves allergy symptoms;
- Providing an antioxidant effect, it prevents the growth of cancer cells;
- capable of a rejuvenating redermalization effect, especially in tandem with mumiyo or hyaluronic acid, which is why it is so often used against wrinkles and any other signs of aging;
- resolves scars and scars (if they formed not so long ago);
- removes rashes, stops the spread of the inflammatory reaction and infections, which makes it possible to use it for acne;
- increase resistance to adverse environmental conditions;
- reduces swelling;
- enhances the effect of other beneficial substances;
- provides complete facial care (suitable for regular use);
- accelerates cellular metabolism;
- cleanses pores well, eliminating blackheads.
All these properties of succinates turn into a completely new life for the skin of the face - without rashes, wrinkles, age spots and scars, which not every cosmetic can cope with. So this substance is an excellent alternative to numerous salon procedures for rejuvenating and smoothing the skin.
Origin of the term. The acid received such a beautiful name thanks to amber, from which it was first extracted by the German chemist Georg Agricola. This was a very long time ago - in the 15th century.
Indications for use
Succinic acid is used in cosmetology for:
- low density, poor elasticity of fabrics;
- uneven color, relief;
- loss of elasticity, age-related changes;
- swelling, pastiness.
The substance can also be used for prevention. It prevents aging, improves the condition and appearance of the skin. These characteristics make succinic acid in demand in the cosmetic industry and for home use. You can make masks, tonics, creams, and other caring products with it yourself. The main thing is regularity of use; the procedure can be done in courses.
To achieve maximum results, 0.5-3% acid is used to prepare masks.
Skin redermalization with succinate and hyaluronic acid
The fixation of free radicals and the prevention of dehydration in therapeutic cosmetology is called skin redermalization. This procedure uses sodium salt of succinic acid (succinate) and hyaluronic acid. This focus was first proposed by Professor V. I. Korzhov. During his research, Strela noticed that this combination has a positive effect on cellular activity and the processes of mutual penetration of proteins and electrolytes. With the simultaneous use of hyaluronate and succinate, the prog in tissues of pyruvic and lactic acid decreases, the concentration of buffer bases increases, DNA structure repair, intracellular repair, and microsomal oxidation processes are stimulated. As a result, metabolism in dermal cells is stimulated, damaged dermal structures are restored, and rejuvenation occurs.
Indications for skin redermalization using succinate are signs of early, physiological and photoaging of the skin (as well as their prevention). These also include the remaining indications:
- Involutional changes in the skin (loss of elasticity, early hypodynamic wrinkles, mild gravitational ptosis, cleansing, redness of the face).
- Scar changes in acne, post-acne.
- It is mandatory to prepare the skin to shorten the further rehabilitation period before plastic surgery, laser resurfacing, deep peelings, and in addition other traumatic procedures.
Procedure for redermalization (restoration) of skin with succinic acid
Redermalization of the skin is again indicated for faster recovery after any chemical and mechanical effects that affect the middle and deep layers of the dermis, including the hypodermis.
Recipes for the best masks at home
The most popular home remedy recipes:
Peeling
An excellent way to deep cleanse the skin. Remove makeup, rinse your face with water or wipe with milk. Crush a couple of tablets, pour boiled water over them, wait until they are completely dissolved (there should be no grains). Apply the liquid mass to the skin and massage gently with your fingers, paying special attention to problem cheeks and nose. After the massage, you can leave the powder on the skin for up to 15 minutes - you will get a full-fledged scrub. You can wash off the composition with cotton wool or discs. You can prepare another scrub at home for combination skin according to the recipe in this material.
Succinic acid should be rubbed along the massage lines of the face and neck.
Nutrition
To prepare it you need a couple of spoons of olive, 2 tablets. Apply the mixture to cleansed skin and leave for 15-20 minutes. After rinsing, apply cream.
Rejuvenation
In this case, it is made with succinic acid and mumiyo. You will need a couple of tablets of succinic acid and the same amount of mumiyo, a spoonful of base oil. The resulting mixture is kept for up to 30 minutes and washed off carefully. The effect of a mask with mumiyo will be noticeable almost immediately. The downside of the recipe is the sharp, persistent smell of mumiyo. With regular use, the mask removes scars, post-acne spots and other imperfections.
Whitening
To prepare it, take the same 2 tablets of acid and a spoonful of white clay. You can use other cosmetic clay, but it is the white variety that best copes with the task of evening out the tone. First, the clay powder is diluted with milk or water until a thick mass is obtained, then crushed tablets are added to it and applied to the face. Please note that clay can dry out, drip, or crumble. The product effectively helps against pigmentation and oily shine. You can improve the results by adding rosemary and lemon essential oils, but this advice is not suitable for sensitive skin. Recipes for other whitening masks are presented at the link.
For fatigue, wrinkles, for the skin around the eyes
An excellent rejuvenating agent made from succinic acid and mumiyo. Choose a base oil taking into account your skin type; tablets (2 of each type) must first be thoroughly dissolved in a small amount of water. You can keep the mixture for up to half an hour. You can find another anti-wrinkle mask at home from 30 here.
For acne, blackheads
For acne, succinic acid is also effective. Take 2-3 tablets, dissolve in water and peel. After lightly massaging your skin, be sure to leave the acne mask on your face for up to 5-10 minutes. It is advisable to wash your face with cool water.
For dry and delicate skin
The composition removes wrinkles, swelling, pigmentation, eliminates fatigue, and is a good remedy for acne. All you need is 2 acid tablets, a spoonful of cosmetic yellow or green clay, 5 drops of rosemary oil, a little base oil (olive, almond, avocado, etc.). After 15 minutes, rinse thoroughly with water.
With mumiyo
Various recipes with mumiyo have already been given above. The main thing is to buy a natural product and thoroughly dissolve it right before use. For acne and oily skin, there is no need to add succinic acid and mummy oil to the mixture, but for dry skin they will come in handy.
You can determine your skin type using a regular napkin.
Universal purpose
Relieves inflammation, removes pimples, suitable for any skin type. You need to take 2 tablets of succinic acid, a spoonful of water, 10 drops of ylang-ylang and mix everything thoroughly. Keep it for 20-30 minutes. If you add 50 ml of water and 5 ml of alcohol, you will get a good tonic.
Mitigation
To nourish and moisturize the skin, saturate it with valuable substances, a couple of tablets and a spoon of olive oil are enough. The mask with olive oil is applied along the massage lines with gentle movements and left for 15 minutes.
Preparing the face for applying the composition
How to get results faster after the procedure? You can improve the effectiveness of masks that are easy to prepare yourself by preparing your face for the procedures in advance. Application of the composition should only be carried out on cleansed skin. Remove all remnants of cosmetics from your face. To better absorb nutrients into the skin, be sure to steam your face in steam baths before use.
How should I steam it? Bend over the steaming pan and cover your head with a sheet or large towel. Do several approaches. Hold your head like this for at least 4-5 minutes.
Before using masks with several components, make sure that there is no allergic reaction to them or that this composition will be relevant for your skin type.
Wash off masks with amber using only warm water (boiled or distilled). Take the same water as a component of masks, if it is needed there. After rinsing, the facial skin must be lubricated with a moisturizing or nourishing cream. Before this, you can wash your face with a herbal decoction.
You should not keep any mask with amber for more than 30 minutes. Otherwise, you may get a completely different result. Rinse the mixture off your face carefully, without stretching the skin.
How to cook properly
To prepare the mask, use acid just diluted in water. Other ingredients must be fresh and of high quality, otherwise the effect may be the opposite of the desired one. Use clean containers and brushes so as not to cause infection or simply spoil the composition (and it is difficult to predict in advance how your facial skin will react to soured clay with milk). Tablets can be bought at any pharmacy.
Before using the mask, you must perform an allergy test. To do this, you need to apply a small amount of the mask components to the inside of your hand for several hours. If itching and redness occur, this mask should not be applied.
Before using the product, do an individual tolerance test. Caution should be exercised when using essential oils, especially rosemary and lemon.
Succinic acid is effective on its own, but in combination with other substances it can give even more pronounced results.
The doctor will prescribe
In cosmetology, scrubs, creams, and masks with succinic acid are used, in which the concentration of the active component does not exceed 3%.
The minimum amount of succinic acid in the product must be at least 0.5% for its effect to be at least somewhat noticeable.
Amber peeling has gained particular popularity because it is a soft and gentle option for chemical skin cleansing.
Succinic acid can be recommended in certain cases even for pregnant women.
Contraindications:
- individual intolerance (very rare),
- For external use, the skin condition may be a limitation.
Inflammations and pustules, wounds and injuries are a signal that active actions and manipulations can become dangerous.
Succinic acid will have a beneficial effect not only with the first age-related changes and dullness of color. Positive changes will occur when skin color is evened out, pigmentation, stretch marks, acne marks and shallow scars.
For home treatments, succinic acid can be purchased in pharmacies in tablet form.
Succinates (succinic acid is also called) are prescribed for the treatment of the thyroid gland, used as a hangover remedy, and to treat ARVI. The specific sour taste can irritate mucous surfaces, so not everyone can take succinates orally. You must first consult a doctor.
Negative consequences are observed with urolithiasis, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, and glaucoma. As a side effect when taking a course of tablets, headaches and pressure surges appear.
General rules and tips for use
Succinic acid is effective and useful in itself, so it is not necessary to supplement it with a whole range of products. The main thing is to use masks regularly, apply after washing. You can scrub first, but be careful not to damage the skin.
The mask should be applied to the entire face, but some formulations are undesirable for the eyelid area. If you do everything correctly, the results will not take long to arrive. Scars and stagnant post-acne phenomena are smoothed out well, but pronounced defects cannot be removed.
For dry skin, one procedure per week is enough; for oily skin, up to three can be done.
Amber lifting and beauty mask
It’s worth making a note here that many recipes for using succinic acid at home are very similar (dilute the paste, apply and leave to dry).
You can massage it on damp skin, or just wash it off after 15-20 minutes. It all depends on the sensitivity of the skin and area.
Such options
- tightens the skin with cellulite,
- slightly even out the relief and reduce stretch marks,
- The “color” of acne marks will gradually disappear.
There is also a rejuvenating mask . A popular recipe suggests strengthening mumiyo with succinate. The proportion is selected individually; for the first time, 1 teaspoon of each product will be enough. The powder is mixed with oil (olive or almond) and applied to the skin. Wash off after 15-20 minutes.
Application results
Masks with succinic acid give effective results and are therefore considered beneficial for the skin. The powder penetrates deep into the cells, saturates them with vitamins and valuable microelements, and triggers active regeneration processes. You may also be interested in masks with acetylsalicylic acid here.
Results from using a succinic acid mask.
Results of the course use of masks:
- the problem of dryness goes away;
- wrinkles disappear;
- sebum secretion is normalized;
- scars are smoothed out;
- pronounced pigment spots disappear;
- inflammation decreases;
- swelling goes away;
- the skin becomes elastic and fresh.
These results are achieved due to enhanced cellular renewal, acceleration of metabolic processes, and removal of toxins and waste.
Succinic acid is equally beneficial for both dry and oily skin.
Masks with scrub effect
A mass that will ideally cleanse the epidermis and prepare it for the application of other cosmetics. The scrub will allow the skin to breathe better. You can prepare it like this:
- Using distilled water, grind the crushed 2-3 tablets to a pasty mass. Rub into skin with gentle massaging movements. Leave the mask on your neck and face for a third of an hour and rinse off. To rinse, use water that has already been boiled or micellar water. An hour after removal, treat the skin with cream.
- Succinic acid for removing blackheads. Mix the following composition well: fresh or defrosted raspberries - 2 dessert spoons, low-fat cream - 2 tsp, amber - 5 g of crushed product. Apply a homogeneous mass to the neck and face and gently massage the face. Lie with the mixture for 10 minutes and remove with warm water.
- For the combined type, a composition of crushed grape seeds - 15 g, succinic acid - 2 crushed tablets, lemon juice - 1 tsp, pure water - 1 tbsp. l. After the components are mixed, they are evenly distributed over the face. Massage the skin for at least 3 minutes, leave for another quarter of an hour and rinse. After the procedure, lubricate your face with nourishing cream.
- Scrub mask with rejuvenating results. For the composition, stock up on two tablets of acid, ground into powder, liquid honey - 2 tsp, a tablespoon of coffee beans, clean water - 2 tsp. Before applying and scrubbing the face, the skin should be well steamed.
Contraindications and side effects
The list of contraindications to the use of succinic acid is minimal, but they must be taken into account.
Contraindications to the use of succinic acid.
This:
- allergy or individual hypersensitivity to the components of the product. It appears rarely, but such a possibility cannot be excluded;
- damage, inflammation, skin diseases in the acute stage at the treatment site - wait until everything goes away;
- pregnancy – while carrying a baby, serious changes occur in a woman’s body, and it is unknown how it will react to a new cosmetic product.
Side effects most often develop as a result of exceeding dosages, especially if you decide to supplement homemade masks with internal administration of the product. The main ones are dizziness, pain, dry skin.
To ensure that beauty therapy brings you only pleasant emotions, choose the recipe correctly and make sure you are not intolerant to succinic acid before using it.
Precautionary measures
This substance is a natural component. It is even found in some foods. However, even so, acid can cause negative reactions. As a rule, this is an allergy if a person has an individual intolerance to the active substance.
Attention! Before using succinic acid, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist. It is important to remember that succinic acid is a fairly active substance that can provoke adverse reactions on the face.
It is worth checking the reaction of the epidermis to the active substance. To do this, you need to apply a little mixture diluted with water to a small area on your hand. During the day you need to observe the skin reaction.
When trying to get rid of wrinkles on your face, you should not apply these masks too often: if your skin is dry, you can use them once a week, if your skin is oily, no more than 2 times a week.
