Medicube Red Succinic Acid Serum

Medicube

Red Succinic Acid Serum

face serum

Added Last edited

Fit by skin type

General, ingredient-based — not your personalized match.

Dry
63%
Combination (dry)
63%
Balanced
93%
Combination (oily)
77%
Oily
77%

See how this fits your skin

Take the skin test and I'll show you how suitable this product is for you.

Take the skin test
51
Ingredients
8
Benefits
4
Actives
Find Dupes

Red Succinic Acid Serum is a targeted acne-care serum that helps reduce breakouts, control excess sebum, and refine skin texture. Powered by succinic acid, a gentle yet effective exfoliating ingredient, this serum works to unclog pores and minimize blackheads while preventing new blemishes from forming. It also contains soothing agents like Centella Asiatica and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid to balance the skin and prevent irritation. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly without stickiness, making it suitable for daily use under moisturizer or sunscreen.

Key Insights

Benefits

8
Anti-Acne
Anti-Aging
Blackhead Reducing
Evens Skin Tone
Hydration
Oil Control
Pore Minimizer
Soothing

Active Ingredients

4
BHA Ceramides Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Vitamin B5 (panthenol)

Risks

1
Synthetic polymer

About Red Succinic Acid Serum

Overview

Red Succinic Acid Serum is a lightweight serum from Medicube, a brand based in Korea. The formula is built mainly around hydration and soothing. The ingredient list runs to 51 ingredients, each broken down in full below.

Texture and finish

By its ingredient list the formula reads as light: water and humectants lead, with emollients kept lower in the order. The oils in it point to a dewy, emollient finish rather than a matte one. Hydration is handled by Glycerin, Butylene Glycol and Panthenol, humectants that pull water into the upper layers of skin rather than sealing it there.

What the formula does

Hydration: Very high. Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin, and here that comes from Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Panthenol and Betaine.

Soothing: High. Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity, and here that comes from Panthenol, Allantoin, Beta-glucan and Niacinamide.

Barrier support: Moderate. Lipids and repair signals that support skin barrier integrity, and here that comes from Niacinamide, Panthenol, Squalane and Ceramide NP.

Oil control: Moderate. Ingredients that moderate sebum or absorb shine, and here that comes from Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid and Dextrin.

Who it suits

On richness alone it suits Balanced skin best, and is the least natural fit for Dry and Combination (dry) skin. Nothing in the list is flagged as a common irritant, which is a reasonable starting point for reactive skin — though a patch test is still the only way to know.

What it does not target

The formula contributes little or nothing on antioxidant protection, cell renewal and firmness signalling. That is not a fault — most products are not meant to do everything — but if one of those is your priority, this is not the product that will address it.

What is not in it

Reading the full list, the formula is fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, no drying alcohol, paraben-free, silicone-free and microplastic-free. Those claims come from the ingredient list itself, not from the packaging.

Where it fits in a routine

It can be used morning and evening. In a routine it goes after toner, before moisturiser. Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer. Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

This summary is generated from the product's ingredient list. It is not a review, it is not the brand's own marketing claims, and it does not replace advice from a dermatologist.

Pros and cons

Drawn purely from the ingredient list

Pros

  • No fragrance or declared allergens
  • No essential oils
  • No drying alcohol
  • Silicone-free
  • No microplastics
  • Strong humectant content for hydration
  • Several soothing ingredients
  • No common irritants flagged in the list

Things to know

  • 5 ingredients could feed malassezia (fungal acne)
  • Contains ingredients usually flagged for review during pregnancy

Which skin types it suits

Scored on how rich or light the formula reads from its INCI order.

Suitable for

  • Balanced skin

May suit

  • Combination (oily) skin
  • Oily skin

Less suitable for

  • Dry skin
  • Combination (dry) skin

Sensitive skin

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Skin concerns

Based on the curated benefits documented for this product's ingredients.

Helps with

  • Hydration 20 ingredients

    Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

  • Anti-Aging 12 ingredients

    Boosts collagen and cell turnover to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

  • Soothing 7 ingredients

    Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation for sensitive skin

  • Anti-Acne 2 ingredients

    Targets breakouts by reducing bacteria and unclogging pores

  • Blackhead Reducing 1 ingredient

    Helps unclog pores and reduce blackheads for clearer skin

  • Evens Skin Tone 1 ingredient

    Brightens and balances complexion for a more uniform appearance

  • Oil Control 1 ingredient

    Regulates sebum production to reduce shine and greasiness

  • Pore Minimizer 1 ingredient

    Tightens and refines the look of enlarged pores

Does not target

Dark Spot Fading Smooths Bumpy Skin

None of the ingredients in this formula are associated with these benefits. This is not unusual, as most products are designed to target a limited number of concerns.

Key ingredients

The actives, UV filters and benefit-carrying ingredients in this formula, in the order they are listed.

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)], .alpha.,.alpha.',.alpha.''-1,2,3-propanetriyltris[.omega.-hydroxy-

Hydration
Niacinamide Vitamin B3 (niacinamide)

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a gentle skincare active that repairs the skin barrier, calms redness, controls oil and evens tone at 2–5%. Official IUPAC name: **3-Pyridinecarboxamide**

Soothing Anti-Aging Pore Minimizer

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycerine ;Glycerol (INN); Glycerol (RIFM); Glycerolum (EP); Glycyl Alcohol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane

Hydration Anti-Aging

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Butane-1,3-diol (CAS No. 107-88-0/ EC No. 203-529-7) (R)-(-)-butane-1,3-diol” (CAS No. 6290-03-5/ EC No. 228-532-0)

Hydration
Panthenol Vitamin B5 (panthenol)

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Butanamide, 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethyl-, (2R)-; dl-Panthenol

Hydration Soothing

7th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Decanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol octanoate; Glycerides, mixed decanoyl and octanoyl

Hydration

8th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Dioctyl ether

Hydration

9th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

L-Arginine

Hydration Anti-Aging

10th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, dodecanoates (1:1) (4 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

Hydration

11th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, octadecanoates (1:1) (10 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

Hydration

13th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Butanedioic acid

Soothing Anti-Acne

Formula analysis

Each axis is scored from the ingredients present and how high up the list they sit.

Hydration Very high

Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin

Barrier support Moderate

Lipids and repair signals that support skin barrier integrity

Antioxidant support None

Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution

Oil control Moderate

Ingredients that moderate sebum or absorb shine

Brightening Moderate

Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks

Soothing High

Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity

Cell renewal None

Retinoids, acids and enzymes that speed surface turnover

Firmness signalling None

Peptides and growth factors that signal for collagen support

Active and supporting ingredients

"Active" here means an ingredient carrying a recorded active type or a recognised UV filter.

Active ingredients (4)

Supporting ingredients (47)

Solvents, emollients, texture agents and preservatives — the formula that carries the actives.

Water Glycereth-26 Glycerin Butylene Glycol Caprylic/capric Triglyceride Dicaprylyl Ether Arginine Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate Succinic Acid Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp Copolymer 1,2-hexanediol Diethoxyethyl Succinate Betaine Propanediol Hydroxyacetophenone Sodium Acrylate/sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer Polyisobutene Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract Squalane Allantoin Curcuma Longa Root Extract Tromethamine Adenosine Hydroxyethylcellulose Xanthan Gum Disodium Edta Sorbitan Oleate Caprylyl/capryl Glucoside Glyceryl Acrylate/acrylic Acid Copolymer Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract Monascus Extract Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil Dextrin Corallina Officinalis Extract Geranium Maculatum Oil Tocopherol Phytosphingosine Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract Beta-glucan Momordica Charantia Fruit Extract Hydrogenated Lecithin Hibiscus Esculentus Fruit Extract Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract

What is and is not in it

Read from the full ingredient list. A brand's own claim may differ.

Free from

  • Fragrance-free
  • Essential-oil-free
  • No drying alcohol
  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Microplastic-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Dye-free
  • No animal-derived ingredients

Contains

  • Facial oils

    Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil

What to layer it with

Judged by the same curated rules our routine checker uses. It reads the ingredients, not the label.

Compatible with

  • Azelaic acid
  • Copper peptides
  • Bakuchiol
  • Niacinamide
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ceramides
  • Signal peptides
  • Panthenol
  • Sunscreen

Use with caution

  • Retinoids (retinol, retinal)

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • AHAs (glycolic, lactic)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • BHA (salicylic acid)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • PHAs (gluconolactone)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • Benzoyl peroxide

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

Where it fits in a routine

Morning Evening
  1. Cleanse
  2. Toning
  3. Treat
  4. Moisturise
  5. Protect

This product is the "Treat" step.

  • Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer.
  • Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

Safety and suitability

Flags to check, not verdicts. None of this is medical advice — if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or treating a skin condition, ask a doctor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Contains Salicylic Acid, usually reviewed with a doctor during pregnancy.
Fungal acne (malassezia)
5 ingredients could feed malassezia: Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Sorbitan Oleate, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil. That is about the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that you will break out.
Sensitive and reactive skin
No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.
Recorded ingredient risks
Synthetic polymer

Ingredients by function

Most ingredients do more than one job, so these counts add up to more than the 51 ingredients on the label.

14
Texture agent

Sets the thickness, spread and stability of the formula

10
Plant extract

Botanical material, usually for antioxidants or scent

7
Solvent

Dissolves and carries everything else

6
Occlusive

Forms a film that slows water loss

6
Surfactant

Lifts oil and dirt, or holds oil and water together

5
Humectant

Draws water into the upper layers of skin

4
Active

Changes how skin behaves rather than how it feels

3
Emollient

Softens and smooths by filling gaps between skin cells

2
Antioxidant

Neutralises free radicals from UV and pollution

2
pH adjuster

Sets the acidity the formula needs to work

1
Soothing

Calms visible redness and irritation

1
Chelator

Binds trace metals that would otherwise spoil the formula

1
Exfoliant

Loosens or dissolves dead surface cells

1
Preservative

Keeps the product free of microbial growth

Ingredient breakdown

Every ingredient on the label, in order, with what it does and roughly how much of it is likely to be there.

1 Water Solvent
Estimated level
30–80%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration
3 scientific references
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2015, pages 131-136
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, November-December 1999, pages 344-351
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, September-October 1993, pages 249-262
2 Glycereth-26 Humectant
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)], .alpha.,.alpha.',.alpha.''-1,2,3-propanetriyltris[.omega.-hydroxy-

Hydration
2 scientific references
  • Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology and Medicine, February 2020, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2019, pages 1-11
3 Niacinamide Active
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Active

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a gentle skincare active that repairs the skin barrier, calms redness, controls oil and evens tone at 2–5%. Official IUPAC name: **3-Pyridinecarboxamide**

Soothing Anti-Aging Pore Minimizer
15 scientific references
  • International Journal of Dermatology, February 2021, pages 166-173
  • Biomolecules & Therapeutics, July 2019, pages 562-569
  • Experimental Dermatology, February 2019, pages 15-22
  • Dermatologic Therapy, September 2017, ePublication
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, May 2017, page S116
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2017, pages 158-162
  • Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America, May 2016, pages 145-152
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, July 2015, pages 405-412
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2014, pages 311-315
  • International Journal of Pharmacy, January 2013, pages 192-201
  • Dermatoendrocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2005, pages 1-31
  • Dermatologic Surgery, July 2005, pages 860-865
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2004, pages 231-238
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, April 2004, pages 88-93
4 Glycerin Humectant
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Occlusive, Texture agent, Solvent

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycerine ;Glycerol (INN); Glycerol (RIFM); Glycerolum (EP); Glycyl Alcohol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane

Hydration Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation, March 2021, pages 223-231
  • International Journal of Toxicology, November/December 2019, Volume 38, Supplement 3, pages 6S-22S
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2016, ePublication
  • British Journal of Dermatology, July 2008, pages 23-34
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2007, pages 75-82
  • Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, June 2003, pages 7, 360-7, 365
5 Butylene Glycol Humectant
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent, Solvent

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Butane-1,3-diol (CAS No. 107-88-0/ EC No. 203-529-7) (R)-(-)-butane-1,3-diol” (CAS No. 6290-03-5/ EC No. 228-532-0)

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • CosmeticsInfoorg, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • US Food and Drug Administration Code of Federal Regulations</em>, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2011, pages 5S-16S
  • Skin Research and Technology, November 2007, pages 417-24
  • Journal of the American College of Toxicology, September 1985, pages 223-248
6 Panthenol Active
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Active

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Butanamide, 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethyl-, (2R)-; dl-Panthenol

Hydration Soothing
7 scientific references
  • The Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2019, pages 534-547
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, January 2019, pages 346-354
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2018, pages 1-51
  • The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, August 2017, pages 173-180
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2011, pages 361-370
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, Volume 3, 2002, pages 427-433
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

7th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Decanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol octanoate; Glycerides, mixed decanoyl and octanoyl

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 34-35
  • Periodica Polytechnica Chemical Engineering, 2014, pages 43-48
  • International Journal of Toxicology, January 2003, pages 4-5
  • Food and Chemical Toxicology, January 2000, pages 79-98
  • Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, August 1985, pages 303-311
8 Dicaprylyl Ether Emollient
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Solvent

8th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Dioctyl ether

Hydration
2 scientific references
  • SpecialChem, Accessed January 2022, ePublication
  • Personal Care Council, December 2021, ePublication
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

9th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

L-Arginine

Hydration Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • Biobased Surfactants (Second Edition), 2019, pages 413-445
  • Scientific Reports, February 2016, pages 1-10
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2012, pages 1-35
  • Journal of Advanced Research, July 2010, pages 169–177
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2005, page 139
  • Wound Repair and Regeneration, November-December 2003, pages 419-423
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

10th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, dodecanoates (1:1) (4 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, December 2021, pages 6188-6195
  • European Journal of Biopharmaceutics, September 2012, pages 139-150
  • https://wwwcir-safetyorg/sites/default/files/polyglyceryl%20fatty%20acidpdf
  • http://wwwcir-safetyorg/sites/default/files/polyglyceryl%20fatty%20acidpdf
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

11th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, octadecanoates (1:1) (10 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

Hydration
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

12th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, dodecanoates (1:1) (6 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

13 Succinic Acid pH adjuster
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
pH adjuster

13th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Butanedioic acid

Soothing Anti-Acne
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

14th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a copolymer of ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate and vinylpyrrolidone monomers

Hydration
15 1,2-hexanediol Solvent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

15th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

16th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butanedioic acid, bis(2-ethoxyethyl) ester

17 Betaine Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent

17th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Methanaminium, 1-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2018, pages 28S-46S
  • Food Science and Biotechnology, October 2017, pages 1391-1397
  • The Journal of Chemical Physics, June 2015, ePublication
  • The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, September 2004, pages 539-549
  • Skin Research and Technology, February 2003, pages 50-58
18 Propanediol Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent

18th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • PubChem Compound Summary, April 2021, ePublication
  • SpecialChem, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2018, pages 1-73
  • Cosmetics & Toiletries, May 2013, pages 81-86
19 Hydroxyacetophenone Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

19th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ethanone, 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-,p-Hydroxyacetophenone

Anti-Aging Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Journal of Oleo Science, February 2019, pages 183-191
  • Applied Environmental Microbiology, June 2018, ePublication
  • Journal of Biosciences, May-June 2004, pages 345-353
  • Scientific Reports, April 2021, pages 1–7
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Texture agent

20th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a copolymer of sodium acrylate and sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate monomers

Synthetic polymer
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active, Exfoliant, Preservative

21st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Salicylic acid

Anti-Acne Anti-Aging Blackhead Reducing
10 scientific references
  • Experimental Dermatology, July 2019, pages 786-794
  • European Commission Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, June 2019, pages 1-70
  • Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, April 2018, pages 245-251
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, January-February 2017, pages 55-58
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, August 2015, pages 455-461
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, November 2010, pages 135-142
  • Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, September 2008, pages 170-176
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, April 2007, pages 651-663
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, February 2000, pages 21-52
  • Seminars in Dermatology, December 1990, pages 305-308
22 Polyisobutene Occlusive
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Texture agent

22nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Homopolymer of 2-methyl-1 propene

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

23rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract is an extract of the leaves of the Neem Tree, Melia azadirachta L., Meliaceae

Anti-Aging
8 scientific references
  • 5 Super Anti-Aging Antioxidants Your Skin Needs
  • How to Keep Your Neck & Chest Looking Young
  • Acne & Aging Skin
  • How to Diminish Uneven Skin Tone and Get Your Glow Back
  • What Are Peptides and What Do They Do for Skin?
  • The Truth About Firming Creams
  • Top 5 Reasons to Add Antioxidants to Your Skin Care Routine
  • Anti-Aging Superstars
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Texture agent

24th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

C10-30 alkyl propenoate, polymer with propenoic acid, butenoic acidand/or alkyl propenoates, product with propenyl sucrose ether or propenyl 2,2-dihydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol

Synthetic polymer
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

25th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract is an extract of the flowers of the Neem Tree, Melia Azadirachta L., Meliaceae

Anti-Aging
26 Squalane Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

26th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2,6,10,15,19,23-Hexamethyltetracosane

Hydration Anti-Aging
9 scientific references
  • Cosmetics Ingredient Review, 2019, ePublication
  • ACS Open, July 2017, pages 3, 989–3, 996
  • Indian Journal of Dermatology, May-June 2016, pages 279-297
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, June 2014, pages 25-32
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, January-February 2013, pages 59-66
  • Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, 2012, pages 223-233
  • Molecules, January 2009, pages 540-554
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2006, pages 2, 430-2, 437
  • Free Radical Research, April 2002, pages 471-477
27 Allantoin Occlusive
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Soothing

27th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Urea, (2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl)-

Soothing
8 scientific references
  • Chemistry Series, March 2020, pages 7-21
  • Molecules, June 2019, pages 1-33
  • European Journal of Pharmacology, February 2018, pages 68-78
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, June 2017, Volume 76, Issue 2, Supplement 1
  • Pharmacognosy Review, Volume 5, July-December 2011
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2010, Supplement, pages 84S-97S
  • Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, October 2008, ePublication
  • https://wwwaccessdatafdagov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearchcfm?CFRPart=347&showFR=1
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

28th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Curcuma Longa Root Extract is an extract of the rhizomes of the Turmeric, Curcuma longa L., Zingiberaceae

29 Tromethamine pH adjuster
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
pH adjuster

29th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,3-Propanediol, 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

30th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

6-Amino-9-beta-D-ribofuranosyl-9H-purine

Soothing
8 scientific references
  • PubChem, Accessed May 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, September 2020, pages 1-38
  • Experimental Dermatology, August 2014, pages 553-554
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, August 2011, pages 526-546
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2006, pages 447-451
  • British Journal of Pharmacology, October 2008, issue 4, pages 475-486
  • PloS One, May 2008 (ePublication)
  • >International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2006, pages 447-451
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Texture agent

31st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Cellulose, 2-hydroxyethyl ether

32 Xanthan Gum Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant, Texture agent

32nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Xanthan gum

33 Disodium Edta Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Chelator

33rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Disodium dihydrogen ethylenediaminetetraacetate

34 Sorbitan Oleate Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

34th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sorbitan oleate

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

35th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

D-Glucopyranose, oligomers, decyl octyl glycosides

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent

36th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer is a copolymer of glyceryl acrylate and acrylic acid

Synthetic polymer
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

37th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract is an extract of the leaves of Ocimum sanctum, Labiatae

38 Monascus Extract Plant extract
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

38th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Monascus Extract is an extract of Monascus purpureus

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

39th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil is the fixed oil obtained from the nuts of the Bushnut, Macadamia ternifolia, Proteaceae. It consists primarily of the glycerides of the fatty acids

40 Dextrin Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

40th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Dextrin

Oil Control
8 scientific references
  • Oil-Absorbing Ingredients
  • Help for Oily Skin
  • Salicylic Acid for Skin
  • How BHA Exfoliants Work
  • Which BHA Exfoliant is Right for Me?
  • Niacinamide Benefits: What Does Niacinamide Do for Skin?
  • The Best Toners for Oily Skin
  • The Best Moisturizers for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

41st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Corallina Officinalis Extract is an extract of the Alga, Corallina officinalis L., Corallinaceae

Hydration Anti-Aging
8 scientific references
  • Supercharged Hydration
  • How Hyaluronic Acid Benefits Skin
  • What is Dehydrated Skin & How to Choose the Best Products
  • What Your Moisturizer Must Contain
  • Moisturizer Myths You Should Stop Believing Now
  • The Benefits of Glycerin in Skin Care
  • The Best Face Oils for Skin
  • How Facial Oils Help Skin
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

42nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Geranium Maculatum Oil is the volatile oil obtained from the roots and leaves of the Wild Geranium, Geranium maculatum L., Geraniacea

43 Ceramide NP Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active

43rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ceramide NP,1,3,4-Octadecanetriol, 2-Octadecanamide,Stearoyl-C18-Phytosphingosine,Stearoyl-4-Hydroxysphinganine

Hydration Anti-Aging
11 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2020, pages 5S-25S
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, August 2019, pages 1-15
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2016, pages 135-147
  • Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, October 2014, pages 2473-2483
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, July 2014, pages 177-184
  • Journal of Lipid Research, July 2008, pages 1, 466-1, 476
  • Journal of Lipid Research, September 2007, pages 1936-1943
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003, pages 107-129
  • Contact Dermatitis, June 2002, pages 331-338
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1, 126-1, 136
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, September-October 2001, pages 261-271
44 Tocopherol Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

44th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol; .alpha.-tocopherol; Vitamin E

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
4 scientific references
  • Journal or Agricultural and Food Chemistry, June 2010, pages 7013-7020
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1212-1217
  • Canadian Family Physician, July 2006, pages 855-856
  • Dermatologic Surgery, April 1999, pages 311-315
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

45th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,3,4-Octadecanetriol, 2-amino-, (2S, 3S, 4R)-

Anti-Aging Hydration
6 scientific references
  • Journal of Dermatological Science, January 2020, Volume 97, Issue 1, pages 2-8
  • Archives of Dermatological Research, December 2017, Volume 309, Issue 10, pages 795-803
  • Biochimica et Biophysica Acta: Biomembranes, May 2017, Volume 1859, Issue 5, pages 824-834
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, June 2007, Volume 29, Issue 3, pages 181-190
  • Molecular Medicine, January-March 2006, pages 17-24
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, October 2003, issue 5, pages 1135–1137
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

46th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract is an extract of the fruit of Morinda citrifolia L., Rubiaceae

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

47th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

beta-Glucan is a polysaccharide consisting of b(1-3) linked glucose chains carrying b(1-6) linked glucose sidechains

Soothing Hydration
6 scientific references
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2018, pages 1, 101-1, 107
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, September 2017, pages 1-48
  • Phytotherapy Research, February 2014, pages 159-166
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2012, pages 1-52
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, February 2007, pages 167-170
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2005, page 292
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

48th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Momordica Charantia Fruit Extract is an extract of the fruit of the Balsam Cucumber, Momordica charantia L., Cucurbitaceae

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

49th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Lecithins, hydrogenated

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 5S-25S
  • Nanocosmetics, June 2019, pages 95–140
  • Current Drug Delivery, 2016, pages 111–120
  • Pharmaceutical Research, February 2013, pages 538–55
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

50th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hibiscus Esculentus Fruit Extract is an extract of the fruit of the Hibiscus, Hibiscus esculentus L., Malvaceae

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

51st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract is an extract of the dried roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, Boraginaceae

People also compare

Products in the same category that share this formula's distinguishing ingredients.

Deep Water Surge Serum

Arencia

Shares 8 key ingredients with Red Succinic Acid Serum: Water, Glycereth-26, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Ceramide NP

Deep Water Surge Serum 30

Arencia

Shares 8 key ingredients with Red Succinic Acid Serum: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Ceramide NP

Frequently asked questions

What ingredients are in Red Succinic Acid Serum?

WATER, GLYCERETH-26, NIACINAMIDE, GLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, PANTHENOL, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, DICAPRYLYL ETHER, ARGININE, POLYGLYCERYL-4 LAURATE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 STEARATE, POLYGLYCERYL-6 LAURATE, SUCCINIC ACID, AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, DIETHOXYETHYL SUCCINATE, BETAINE, PROPANEDIOL, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, SODIUM ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, SALICYLIC ACID, POLYISOBUTENE, MELIA AZADIRACHTA LEAF EXTRACT, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, MELIA AZADIRACHTA FLOWER EXTRACT, SQUALANE, ALLANTOIN, CURCUMA LONGA ROOT EXTRACT, TROMETHAMINE, ADENOSINE, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, XANTHAN GUM, DISODIUM EDTA, SORBITAN OLEATE, CAPRYLYL/CAPRYL GLUCOSIDE, GLYCERYL ACRYLATE/ACRYLIC ACID COPOLYMER, OCIMUM SANCTUM LEAF EXTRACT, MONASCUS EXTRACT, MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL, DEXTRIN, CORALLINA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT, GERANIUM MACULATUM OIL, CERAMIDE NP, TOCOPHEROL, PHYTOSPHINGOSINE, MORINDA CITRIFOLIA FRUIT EXTRACT, BETA-GLUCAN, MOMORDICA CHARANTIA FRUIT EXTRACT, HYDROGENATED LECITHIN, HIBISCUS ESCULENTUS FRUIT EXTRACT, LITHOSPERMUM ERYTHRORHIZON ROOT EXTRACT.

What are the active ingredients in Red Succinic Acid Serum?

NIACINAMIDE, PANTHENOL, SALICYLIC ACID, CERAMIDE NP.

How do I use Red Succinic Acid Serum?

After cleansing and toning, apply 2–3 drops evenly over the face, focusing on problem areas. Gently pat until fully absorbed. Follow with a moisturizer and use sunscreen during the day. Tip: For stubborn breakouts, layer the serum only on affected areas as a spot treatment for faster results while keeping the rest of your skin calm and balanced.

What skin types is Red Succinic Acid Serum good for?

Judged on how rich the formula reads from its ingredient list, it suits Balanced skin best. It is the least natural fit for Dry, Combination (dry) skin.

Is Red Succinic Acid Serum good for sensitive skin?

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Is Red Succinic Acid Serum fungal acne safe?

5 ingredients could feed malassezia: Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Sorbitan Oleate, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil. That describes the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that they will cause a breakout.

Can I use Red Succinic Acid Serum while pregnant?

It contains Salicylic Acid, which are usually reviewed with a doctor during pregnancy. Ask your doctor or midwife before using it.

Is Red Succinic Acid Serum fragrance free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is fragrance-free.

Does Red Succinic Acid Serum contain alcohol?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is no drying alcohol.

Is Red Succinic Acid Serum silicone free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is silicone-free.

Does Red Succinic Acid Serum contain essential oils?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is essential-oil-free.

Is Red Succinic Acid Serum paraben free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is paraben-free.

What can I layer with Red Succinic Acid Serum?

It layers well with Azelaic acid, Copper peptides, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides. Take more care combining it with Retinoids (retinol, retinal), Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid), PHAs (gluconolactone), Benzoyl peroxide — use them in separate routines or on alternate days.

When should I apply Red Succinic Acid Serum?

Use it morning and evening, after toner, before moisturiser.

How many ingredients does Red Succinic Acid Serum have?

It lists 51 ingredients, of which 4 are recorded as actives.

Who makes Red Succinic Acid Serum?

Medicube, a brand based in Korea.

Brand
Medicube
Country
Korea

Reviews

0 total

Log in to leave a review.

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.