N-Hydroxysuccinimide: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is N-Hydroxysuccinimide?

N-Hydroxysuccinimide is an organic compound that chemists describe as a hydroxylated succinimide ring. In simpler terms it is a small, white crystalline powder derived from succinic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in plant and animal cells. First prepared in academic labs during the 1950s, the material became popular in biochemistry for its ability to help link molecules together. Over time formulators noticed that this same property could be useful in topical products, encouraging better interaction between active ingredients and the skin’s surface.

Commercial production starts with succinic anhydride, which reacts with hydroxylamine under controlled temperature to create N-Hydroxysuccinimide. After purification and drying the result is a high-purity powder that dissolves well in water-free solvents, making it easy to incorporate into creams, serums or gels without affecting texture or scent.

Today you will most often find N-Hydroxysuccinimide in eye creams, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and targeted treatment ampoules that promise to brighten under-eye darkness or improve the look of tired skin. It is rarely the star of the show; instead it works quietly in the background to support other active ingredients and help the overall formula feel smoother on application.

N-Hydroxysuccinimide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient brings one key benefit to beauty formulas.

As a skin conditioning agent, N-Hydroxysuccinimide helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin. It supports the skin’s natural barrier by improving the spreadability of a product, allowing moisture-binding ingredients to coat the skin more evenly. The result is a formula that feels silky, absorbs nicely and leaves the complexion looking refreshed and well hydrated.

Who Can Use N-Hydroxysuccinimide

N-Hydroxysuccinimide is considered gentle and non-irritating so it suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well because it has no fragrance and is used at very low levels, though anyone with a history of succinimide allergies should proceed cautiously.

The compound is synthetically produced from plant-derived succinic acid and hydroxylamine so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal ingredients or by-products are involved at any stage of manufacturing.

Current research has not shown any specific risks linked to topical N-Hydroxysuccinimide use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the ingredient list of a planned product to their healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

N-Hydroxysuccinimide does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and therefore does not raise the risk of sunburn. Regular daytime sun protection is still recommended as part of a complete skincare routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical N-Hydroxysuccinimide can vary. The points below list potential side effects that could occur in rare situations. When formulated correctly most users will not experience these issues.

  • Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
  • Temporary itching in very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in people allergic to succinimide derivatives
  • Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eye area in high concentration

If you notice any persistent discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Comedogenic rating: 0

N-Hydroxysuccinimide is a small water-soluble molecule with no oily or waxy residues so it does not clog pores or form a film on the skin. It is typically used at very low concentrations that further reduce any chance of pore blockage. Therefore it is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

No additional factors such as heavy carrier oils or occlusive fillers are linked to this ingredient, meaning its rating stays low even in richer cream formulas.

Summary

N-Hydroxysuccinimide serves mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that helps products spread evenly, improves softness and supports a healthy-looking barrier. It does this by increasing the interaction between other actives and the skin surface, allowing moisturizers and brighteners to coat the skin more uniformly.

While respected by formulators it is not a headline ingredient that consumers usually seek out, so its presence tends to fly under the radar in eye creams and serums where it quietly boosts user experience.

Current data show it to be low-risk for irritation or pore clogging, making it safe for most skin types including sensitive. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a small patch test when trying a product that contains N-Hydroxysuccinimide to ensure personal compatibility.

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