Ferulic Acid

Beauty glossary

What Is Ferulic Acid? 

A natural antioxidant, ferulic acid packs a powerful punch in the fight to reduce (and even reverse) the aging effects of damaging free radicals. In short, it should be your skin’s new BFF.

What Does Ferulic Acid Do? 

Found naturally in grains, fruits, and vegetables, ferulic acid slows down the aging process and reduces free radical damage (think wrinkles, fine lines and age spots), while promoting the regeneration of new, healthy cells. The anti-aging hero also protects against sun damage, boosting the skin’s natural defensive barrier.

While ferulic acid works well solo, when combined with other skincare superstars, like vitamins C and E, it’s even more potent and actually makes other ingredients work harder for longer.

Who Should Use Ferulic Acid

Ferulic Acid doesn’t discriminate – it’s beneficial for all ages, whether you’re looking to start preventative anti-aging care or address visible signs of aging. Plus, it’s safe for most skin types and there are almost no side effects unless you have very sensitive skin or an allergy to the ingredient, which is rare.

How To Use It In Your Routine

Trust us, timing is everything. For best results, apply ferulic acid in the morning so the antioxidants can protect your skin from environmental factors throughout the day, and follow it with your usual morning skincare regimen. While the early bird catches the skincare worm, you can apply it at night if you really want to, as traces of the antioxidant will remain on the skin, ready to help protect it the following day. In terms of frequency, ferulic acid can be used up to twice daily.

Our Fave Ferulic Acid Skincare Products: 

Ferulic Acid Source: SkinCeuticals

Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, $166: Packed with the ultimate trio – vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid – it’s one of the most coveted skincare products in the beauty world for a reason. Not only does it protect skin from aging, but it also brightens and tones and helps reduce scarring.

Ferulic Acid Source: The Ordinary

The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%, $8: This jaw-droppingly affordable formula combines high concentrations of ferulic acid and Resveratrol, two of the most badass antioxidants in the industry, for age-defying results.

Ferulic Acid Source: Dr Dennis Gross

Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic Acid and Retinol Brightening Solution, $88: The ferulic acid in this fast-absorbing serum supercharges the Retinol to help improve skin tone, texture, and fine lines for that lit-from-within glow.

To find out more about amazing skincare ingredients, check out our Beauty Glossary.