Ferulic acid is an organic substance found in the cell walls of certain plants. Laden with antioxidants like vitamin A, C, and E, ferulic acid is commonly found in most anti-ageing skin creams, where it works to neutralize free radicals that damage healthy skin cells. Additionally, it can be taken as a dietary supplement that has the potential to prevent or treat high blood pressure, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

The ferulic acid found in supplements is obtained from cereal grains and it is found in high concentrations in herbal products used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Also Read: Alpha Arbutin: Uses, Skin Healing Benefits, And Side Effects Of This Wonder Beauty Ingredient

Read this article to get a detailed overview of how this acid benefits the skin.
Ferulic acid - fennel flower

In recent years, ferulic acid has earned a reputation in the beauty industry owing to its incredible ability to combat free radicals, while also triggering the efficacy of other antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E. But ferulic acid supplements do not have the same potency for skin beauty as serums containing ferulic acid do.

Face acids like ferulic acid when used at the appropriate concentration are valued as some of the most powerful healing ingredients available in skin care. Ferulic acids are the magic skincare tools used to combat acne, wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone.

What Is Ferulic Acid?

Ferulic acid belongs to a class of chemicals called hydroxycinnamic acids. This plant-based antioxidant is chiefly used in anti-ageing skincare products. Ferulic acid is naturally present in the cell walls of a range of plants such as:

  • Apples
  • Artichokes
  • Cereal Grains
  • Coffee
  • Grapes
  • Parsley
  • Peanuts
  • Rhubarb
  • Spinach
  • Tomatoes
  • Whole Grains

Curative Benefits of Ferulic Acid

Woman using serum

Fades Away Wrinkles: 

The potent antioxidant effects of ferulic acid shield the skin from environmental pollutants and radiation that can lead to wrinkles.

Uplifts Skin Tone: 

Laden with skin benefitting nutrients and antioxidants ferulic acid prevents sagging skin and acts as a defence to safeguard the skin from damage and improves skin tone and firmness.

Lowers Inflammation: 

Oxidative damage may result in inflammation in the skin that blocks pores and leads to breakouts. Ferulic acid bestowed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities reduces inflammation and enhances skin health.

Reduces Darks Spots: 

Ferulic acid works wonder to shield the skin from sun damage and eases the aftereffects of pimple-like persistent dark spots.

Boosts Effects of Other Skincare Ingredients: 

Ferulic acid can phenomenally increase the efficacy of other skin care substances, like Vitamins C and E.

Treats Melasma: 

Melasma is a chronic pigmentary skin problem where melanocytes are reactive to sunlight and infrared radiation. Ferulic acid is well-known to protect the skin against infrared radiation and healing melasma.

Also Read: Malic Acid: Uses, Health Benefits And Side Effects

How to Use?

woman applying cream
Ferulic acid works well when applied topically using through serum or a peel. Also, to reap the maximum skin healing benefits of ferulic acid, opt for a serum that contains both ferulic acid and vitamin C.

Ferulic acid-based cream is used twice a day, as this will restore the mechanism to work effectively both during the day and nighttime. For best results, apply two to three drops of ferulic acid serum or cream to clean, dry skin every morning with your fingers and gently spread the product evenly over the face. Then follow the routine with moisturizer and sunscreen.

If you are using exfoliating acids, apply at night and not at the same time, as these products are meant to neutralize free radical damage and are very mild. While using certain acids like glycolic acid or salicylic acid, it can alter the pH of the skin, beauty experts recommend not to meld layers of acids on the skin as they can change the skin pH, which eventually modifies the efficacy of the antioxidant. If you are suffering from any health problems or taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, then seek advice from your healthcare provider before using any new product.

Products Containing Ferulic Acid

Products containing ferulic acid

Ferulic acid is a key element in several skin care products and some of the products that contain ferulic acid include:

Day Serums/Creams: 

They also contain vitamins C, E or retinol and an effective product may contain around 3% ferulic acid.

Night Serums/Creams: 

A few night serums blend ferulic acid with other active ingredients like retinol.

Sunscreen:

Sunscreen containing ferulic may help to shield the skin more effectively than one without it.

Brightening Products: 

Ferulic acid can help to ease hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Some of the products containing ferulic acids are available as creams, serums, exfoliant liquids, and scrubs.

Side Effects

feulic acid seeds
Ferulic acid is generally safe for most skin types. But for a person with sensitive skin, it’s best to do a patch test, as one would do with all other new skin care products.

Further, there’s also a chance of developing an allergic reaction to ferulic acid. This is due to the ingredient from which it is obtained. For example, If you have an allergy to bran, then you may be sensitive to ferulic acid obtained from this plant source.

Refrain using products containing ferulic acid if you develop any of these side effects:

  • Redness
  • Rashes
  • Hives
  • Itchiness
  • Peeling skin