Ferulic Acid

INCI: Ferulic Acid
Category: Antioxidant
Used in: Skincare
Typical Usage Level (Topical):
0.5% – 1% in leave-on formulations (serums mainly)
Lower concentrations are effective due to its strong antioxidant activity.

What This Ingredient Does

Ferulic acid is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in plant cell walls, particularly in grains, fruits, and seeds. In skincare, it plays a key role in protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants.

One of ferulic acid’s most important functions is its ability to stabilise other antioxidants, especially vitamin C and vitamin E. When used together, these antioxidants work synergistically to provide stronger protection against free radical damage and help reduce visible signs of photoageing.

Ferulic acid also has mild anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm skin exposed to environmental stressors and support overall skin resilience.

Benefits

  • Protects skin from free radical damage

  • Enhances the effectiveness of vitamins C and E

  • Helps reduce signs of photoageing over time

  • Supports even skin tone and skin resilience

  • Lightweight and suitable for most skin types

Who It’s Suitable For

  • All skin types

  • Dull or environmentally stressed skin

  • Early signs of ageing

  • Pigmentation-prone skin as part of an antioxidant routine

  • Oily and acne-prone skin needing lightweight protection

Note by Dr. Su

(M.D. Dermatologist)
Ferulic acid is a valuable supporting antioxidant. Its real strength lies in boosting and stabilising other antioxidants, making it an important part of well-formulated photoprotective skincare rather than a standalone active.

References

  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2005 – Synergistic antioxidant effects of ferulic acid with vitamins C and E

  • Dermatologic Surgery, 2008 – Role of antioxidants in photoprotection

  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019 – Topical antioxidants and skin ageing

(References relate to ferulic acid’s antioxidant activity and its role in enhancing photoprotection in skincare formulations.)

(These references explain the scientific context not proprietary product testing.)