Ferulic Acid In Your Skin Care Products. Benefits and all you need to Know About!
Ferulic acid is a potent antioxidant compound that is frequently used in skin treatments due to its numerous benefits. The following article will tell you everything you need to know about this useful skincare ingredient and you will discover how this natural compound can play a key role in our quest for more radiant and healthier skin.
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What Is Ferulic Acid?
Ferulic acid is a skincare active ingredient belonging to the family of hydroxycinnamic acids. These compounds have their natural sources in various cell walls of plants and are considered bioactive due to their powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be naturally found in bran, rice, or oat seeds, as well as in fruits and vegetables, but you can also find it in ferulic acid supplements
The cosmetic industry uses this compound in its serums and as an additive to other products. When used as an antioxidant, it fights free radicals damage induced by oxidative stress to protect the cells. Additionally, it has photoprotective properties, which help to shield the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays boosting sunscreen. That is the reason why we find this compound a common ingredient in our daily lotions, usually combined with other ingredients like vitamins C and E or retinol.
Ferulic Acid Benefits. What Does Ferulic Acid Do For Skin?
Although you may have heard about Ferulic acid mainly due to its antioxidant properties, it can do much more for you. Well, here are the most important skin benefits of ferulic acid:
- Reduces premature skin aging. As an antioxidant, it is a free radical scavenger and a powerful anti-aging skin agent. While it is not specifically marketed for skin tightening, ferulic acid can support collagen synthesis, potentially improving the skin's appearance and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Reduces the formation of dark spots. Hyperpigmentation occurs when there is an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of our skin. Ferulic acid has been found to inhibit the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin synthesis. By reducing the production of melanin, it can help brighten and lighten the skin and prevent the formation of brown spots. At this point, it is also worth noting a study published in 2017 by Hye-Jin Park, and Jun-Hyo Cho, in which the ferulic acid isolated from Tetragonia tetragonioides was tested for its whitening effect on the B16F10 mouse melanoma, a type of skin cancer, and its anti-wrinkle activity on the CCD-986sk human dermal fibroblast cell line, shows potential as a functional food.
- Calms irritated and sensitive skin.
- Reduces inflammation associated with acne, rosacea, or dermatitis. It may alleviate the inflammatory symptoms related to these ailments.
- Protects against solar radiation. This ingredient can help neutralize the free radicals generated by ultraviolet radiation, making it a good skin protector. However, it is always important to wear sunscreen when exposed to the sun.
- Improves the general appearance of the skin. Due to its ability to protect the skin against oxidative stress, it raises the overall appearance of the skin and provides radiance.
Adding ferulic acid into your daily routine, you must know that with this ingredient in particular, its effects are obtained more in long-term applications than in temporary ones.
In the following image, belonging to a study carried out in 2020 by Dermatologic Therapy, we can appreciate the differences before and after applying ferulic acid to the skin.
Discover what are the best active ingredients for your skin
How To Use Ferulic Acid To Improve Your Skin During Routine
Ferulic acid can be used in your everyday routine. Generally, and due to its characteristics, ferulic acid is used in your morning and night routine.
However, the condition of our skin is not constant but rather varies depending on external and internal circumstances such as air pollution, stress, or hormone cycles, and we must adapt the ingredients of our routine to achieve the best possible results. As a general guideline, here are some basic steps for a proper skincare routine that includes Ferulic acid:
1. Cleansing: Remove impurities, dirt, and makeup residue. Apply a gentle cleanser according to your skin type (ideally made with non-ionic surfactants to protect the natural skin barrier) and rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Treatment: If you have any specific skin concerns that can benefit from this ingredient, the time to use ferulic acid has arrived. You can combine it with other active ingredients for better results depending on your concerns. For example, the combination of properties of ferulic acid with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide is a perfect blend for rejuvenating the skin.
If you are using our personalized skincare system, simply add your Ferulic acid refill to your device to benefit from its properties
3. Moisturizer: Hydration is vital for healthy and radiant skin. Apply a moisturizer suitable for your specific skin type (as always, try to avoid the "all skin" types) and gently massage it onto the face and neck.
4. Sunscreen: Don't forget to protect your skin from UV damage. Make sure to cover all exposed areas before going out in the sun.
If you're unsure about your skin type or what other active ingredients you should add to your daily routine, you can take this skin quiz to find out.
Extra Step: Exfoliating once or twice a week helps remove dead cells and keeps the skin smooth and radiant.
Is Ferulic Acid Safe While Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, many healthcare professionals recommend being cautious with skincare products, as certain substances may be absorbed through the skin and potentially affect the developing fetus or nursing baby.
Ferulic acid may be considered a reliable compound, but there are exceptions. Although it can be applied in very small amounts, it is not advisable to use topical ferulic acid during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider before using it to ensure the well-being of both the pregnant and the baby.
Side Effects of Ferulic Acid Cream
Although products with ferulic acid are generally secure and do not provoke side effects, regardless of skin type, some people may have or develop an allergy to this active ingredient over time. Especially people with allergies to the plants from which this acid is extracted may be more prone to developing sensitivity to these products.
If you experience itching, redness, or skin peeling, stop utilizing the product immediately and consult a healthcare provider.
Frequent Asked Questions
Does Ferulic Acid Smell?
Ferulic acid is odorless in its pure form. However, in skincare products, its scent may vary depending on added fragrances and ingredients used by the manufacturer. Always check product labels and do a patch test if sensitive to scents.
Does Ferulic Acid Lighten Skin?
Ferulic acid is not known for its skin-lightening properties. It is primarily valued for its antioxidant benefits and protection against free radicals, contributing to overall skin health. For skin lightening, other ingredients or certain acids may be more effective
Does Ferulic Acid Improve The Appearance Of Discolorations?
Ferulic acid´s properties raise the appearance of discolorations on the skin, such as age spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation. It can result from various factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, and aging. As we said before, it works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. However, more research is needed to determine its exact mechanisms and efficacy.
Is Ferulic Acid Good For Sensitive Skin?
Yes, it is generally considered safe and beneficial for sensitive skin. However, like any skincare ingredient, individual reactions can vary, even among those with sensitive skin. It's always a good idea to patch-test any new product containing ferulic acid before applying it to your entire face.
Is Ferulic Acid Good For Acne?
As it is said before, it has potential benefits for reducing acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help calm inflammation, minimize redness, and protect the skin from oxidative stress.
Does ferulic acid cause purging?
No, ferulic acid itself is not known to purge. Purging typically occurs with certain skincare products that contain active ingredients, like retinoids or hydroxy acids, that can increase skin cell turnover. This increased turnover can lead to the rapid exfoliation of dead skin cells.
Is Ferulic Acid An Exfoliant?
Ferulic acid is an antioxidant and a skin protector, so it does not have exfoliating properties.
Can I Combine Resveratrol And Ferulic Acid?
Yes, you can. When combined, these two antioxidants may have a synergistic effect, potentially enhancing their benefits. However, further research is still needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of combining resveratrol and ferulic acid
Is Ferulic Acid, Vitamin C?
No, it is not vitamin C. While both are powerful antioxidants that help the skin, they are different compounds. Both can be used together in skin care products to enhance their antioxidant effects and provide a brighter and more youthful complexion.
Does Ferulic Acid Cause Sun Sensitivity?
There is no evidence suggesting that ferulic acid causes sun sensitivity. Numerous studies have shown that ferulic acid can protect the skin from UV damage and reduce the risk of sunburn. It works by neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative stress, which are key factors in skin aging and sun-induced skin damage. However, it is important to note that everyone's skin is different, and some individuals may still experience sun sensitivity regardless of using ferulic acid. Therefore, it is always necessary to use sunscreen in conjunction with any other products to protect the skin from sun damage.
How To Make Ferulic Acid Serum?
OcultTo make it, you'll need 1/2 teaspoon of ferulic acid powder, 2 tablespoons of propylene glycol, 1/2 cup of distilled water, and a dark glass dropper bottle. Dissolve the acid in propylene glycol, then add distilled water. Mix well, transfer to the bottle, and store in a cool, dark place.ar contenido
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Sources:
J Nat Med. 2018 Jan;72(1):127-135. doi: 10.1007/s11418-017-1120-7. Epub 2017 Sep 7.
Srinivasan M, Sudheer AR, Menon VP. Ferulic acid: therapeutic potential through its antioxidant property. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2007;40(2):92-100. doi:10.3164/jcbn.40.92
Park, HJ., Cho, JH., Hong, SH. et al. Whitening and anti-wrinkle activities of ferulic acid isolated from Tetragonia tetragonioides in B16F10 melanoma and CCD-986sk fibroblast cells. J Nat Med 72, 127–135 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11418-017-1120-7
Murray JC, Burch JA, Streilein RD, et al. A topical antioxidant solution containing vitamins C and E stabilized by ferulic acid protects human skin against damage caused by ultraviolet irradiation. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008;59(3):418-425. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2008.05.004
National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). Dong Quai.
