Derm DMs: What Is Ferulic Acid?

Ferulic acid is a plant-based antioxidant that is used in many skin-care products for its anti-aging benefits. Is it worth incorporating into your skin-care routine? To find out, we consulted with board-certified surgeon, SkinCeuticals ambassador and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Peter Schmid to learn all about this buzzy ingredient.

What Is Ferulic Acid?

“Ferulic acid is an antioxidant which acts as a strong scavenger of free radicals, which are byproducts of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and pollutants,” says Dr. Schmid. “Over time, free radicals can lead to skin deterioration, fine lines and wrinkles.”

Research suggests that when ferulic acid is paired with vitamins C and E, the potency and efficacy of the antioxidant are even more enhanced. A study published by Duke University Medical Center also found that ferulic acid incorporated into a solution of 15 percent l-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and one percent alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) improved the chemical stability of the vitamins.

What Skin Types Should Use Ferulic Acid?

Ferulic acid can benefit all skin types, but according to Dr. Schmid, “ferulic acid is extremely beneficial to skin types that are sensitive to the sun and easily burn (Fitzpatrick Skin Types 1-2).”

Our Favorite Products That Contain Ferulic Acid

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Formulated with 15% pure vitamin C, 1% vitamin E and 0.5% ferulic acid, this blend of ingredients works to keep skin protected from environmental aggressors like UVA/UVB rays, infrared radiation and pollution. It also works to brighten the complexion and reduce signs of visible aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness and dullness. 

The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%

Looking for an affordable way to add ferulic into your routine? Try this $7.90 option that’s made with a high concentration of ferulic acid and resveratrol, which is another antioxidant that can help reduce the look of redness, fade discoloration and protect the skin against environmental aggressors. 

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF 

This treatment is packed with antioxidants including phloretin, l-ascorbic acid and ferulic acid. It prevents environmental damage and improves the appearance of discoloration, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn 

Read More: 

Stop What You’re Doing and Watch This Skin-Care Science Experiment

I Put the SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF to the Test, and Now I’m Hooked on Vitamin C

5 Serums and Creams Formulated with Antioxidants