What Is Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen?
Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is a water-soluble form of collagen that has been broken down into small peptides, then linked with succinic acid and neutralized with sodium. The collagen most often comes from fish or bovine sources that have been cleaned and purified for cosmetic use. After hydrolysis shortens the protein chains, the material is reacted with succinic anhydride, creating a salt that mixes easily with water and fits well into modern skin care formulas.
Collagen itself has been a beauty staple since the mid-20th century. As research pushed for lighter textures and better skin feel, chemists began modifying collagen to improve absorption and stability. Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is one of those next-generation tweaks, first appearing in premium Asian skin care before spreading to global brands looking for gentle yet effective moisturizers.
Production starts with enzymatic or acid hydrolysis of native collagen, a step that chops the large protein into smaller, skin-friendly pieces. These peptides are then treated with succinic anhydride, forming a condensation product. Finally the material is neutralized with a mild sodium base, filtered and dried into a fine powder or concentrated solution ready for formulation.
Because it dissolves quickly and boosts water retention, you will find Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen in face masks, anti-aging serums, daily moisturizers, eye creams, body lotions, lightweight gels and even some hair conditioners that focus on softness and shine. It blends well with botanical extracts, hyaluronic acid, vitamins and most common emulsion systems.
Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient pulls double duty in skin care, offering both hydration and a smoother feel
- Humectant – Attracts water from the environment and draws it into the upper layers of skin, helping to keep the surface plump and comfortable throughout the day
- Skin Conditioning – Leaves a soft, silky finish that can reduce the appearance of rough patches and fine lines while improving overall texture
Who Can Use Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen
Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry and mature skin appreciate its moisture boost while oily and combination skin benefit from its light, non-greasy texture. Sensitive skin usually handles it without issues because the peptides are small and the salt form is mild, though anyone extremely reactive to animal proteins should proceed with caution.
The ingredient is sourced from animal collagen, most often fish or bovine, so it is not considered vegan or vegetarian friendly. Pescatarians may find marine-derived versions acceptable but strict plant-based users will want to seek alternatives such as fermented or plant peptides.
No data suggest specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is applied topically in cosmetic concentrations. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run new products past a healthcare professional just to be safe.
Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen does not cause photosensitivity and can be used day or night alongside sunscreen. It pairs well with common actives like niacinamide, vitamin C and retinoids without destabilizing them.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen vary between individuals. The points below cover potential side effects yet most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Skin irritation: temporary redness itching or mild burning on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Allergic reaction: swelling hives or intense itching in those with known fish bovine or general protein allergies
- Contact dermatitis: delayed rash or flaking if the immune system reacts to trace impurities or the collagen peptides themselves
- Breakouts: occasional clogged pores or pimples in acne-prone users although the risk is low thanks to its light texture
- Eye stinging: discomfort or watering if a formulation containing the ingredient migrates into the eyes
If any of these adverse effects occur stop using the product and consult a medical professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5. Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is highly water-soluble and contains no oils or waxes that can lodge in pores, so it does not create the kind of occlusive film that typically leads to blackheads or pimples. Its small hydrophilic peptides rinse away cleanly and have not been flagged in published literature or formulator reports for causing congestion. This makes the ingredient a safe choice for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Keep in mind overall formula design matters: heavy creams rich in butters or silicones may still clog pores even if this collagen derivative on its own is non-comedogenic.
Summary
Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen acts mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Its short collagen peptides latch onto water molecules, drawing moisture into the upper layers of skin, while the succinylated structure lets it spread smoothly and leave a silky after-feel that helps soften rough spots and blur fine lines.
The ingredient enjoyed an early surge in Japanese and Korean skincare, then filtered into global serums and masks as brands looked for animal-derived alternatives to hyaluronic acid that still feel weightless. It is not yet a household name but is gaining steady traction thanks to its gentle nature and compatible texture.
Current safety data show a very low risk of irritation or sensitization when used at typical cosmetic levels, so most people can apply it with confidence. Still, skin is personal, so performing a patch test when trying any new product containing Sodium Succinoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen is a smart precaution.