Skincare ingredient information: What is ferulic acid, and what are its effects on the skin?
Ferulic acid, a naturally occurring organic compound derived from plant cells, has been making waves in the skincare industry due to its potent antioxidant properties. This hydroxycinnamic acid has been found to enhance the effectiveness of various skincare treatments and products.
Enhancing Microneedling and Skin Peels
A study published in 2018 revealed that a ferulic acid skin peel, followed by microneedling, led to significant improvements in skin elasticity. This suggests that ferulic acid may increase the effectiveness of cosmetic procedures like microneedling, promoting healthier and more youthful skin [1].
Boosting Antioxidant Properties in Skincare Products
Many skincare manufacturers incorporate ferulic acid as an active ingredient in their products, such as serums and creams. Notably, the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum, a dermatologist-recommended Vitamin C serum, contains ferulic acid. This formula, which also includes 15% L-ascorbic acid (pure Vitamin C) and 1% Vitamin E, is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles, brighten complexion, and protect against environmental aging [2].
Other popular products that combine ferulic acid with Vitamin C and Vitamin E include the Tatcha The Brightening Serum, Alastin C-RADICAL Defense Antioxidant Serum, Paula’s Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum, and Neutrogena Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Serum [3].
Neutralizing Free Radicals and Inhibiting Melanin Production
Ferulic acid acts as a "free radical scavenger," seeking out and neutralizing damaging free radicals that contribute to aging. Additionally, it may inhibit the production of enzymes that contribute to melanin creation, potentially brightening the skin [1].
Enhancing Sunscreen Protection
Adding ferulic acid to sunscreens can raise their SPF and may prevent inflammatory skin reactions. As a result, an effective sunscreen with ferulic acid may provide more effective protection than one without it [2].
Safe and Effective Usage
Experts generally consider ferulic acid to be safe, but it is important to test new skincare products on a small area before applying them widely. Most ferulic acid serums, such as the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, are applied once daily in the morning after cleansing and before moisturizer and sunscreen to maximize antioxidant protection against environmental damage throughout the day [2].
Lighter lotions like Photozyme’s Vitamin CE + Ferulic can be used similarly in the morning routine, especially when a less sticky or serum-based texture is preferred [4].
Ferulic acid products are often combined with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and niacinamide to improve stability and antioxidant effects. It is generally advised to store these products away from light, heat, and air to prevent oxidation and maintain potency [2].
Sources
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum
- Photozyme Vitamin CE + Ferulic Acid Lotion
- The Best Vitamin C Serums of 2021
- The Best Vitamin C Serums for Every Skin Type
- Ferulic Acid: Benefits, Sources, and Side Effects
- Ferulic acid: An Overview
- Ferulic acid: A review on its chemical properties, biochemistry, and application in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries
- The Skinceticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum, a dermatologist-recommended product, contains ferulic acid and is clinically proven to brighten complexion and protect against environmental aging.
- Ferulic acid, found in skincare products such as serums and creams, acts as a "free radical scavenger," seeking out and neutralizing damaging free radicals that contribute to aging.
- A study published in 2018 demonstrated that a ferulic acid skin peel, followed by microneedling, led to significant improvements in skin elasticity, suggesting that it may increase the effectiveness of cosmetic procedures like microneedling.
- Adding ferulic acid to sunscreens can raise their SPF and may prevent inflammatory skin reactions, providing more effective protection than sunscreens without it.
