Antioxidants can do wonders on the skin. The benefits of antioxidant-rich skin care products are endless, from controlling free radical proliferation, protecting the skin from harmful UV rays, and smoothing skin complexion.
While Vitamin C, retinol, and niacinamide are taking the spotlight, a lesser-known but equally impressive ingredient is worth your hard-earned cash – ferulic acid. Let’s look at what this skincare powerhouse is all about and discover why it’s always paired with Vitamin C and other skin care bestsellers.
What is ferulic acid?
Ferulic acid is a plant-based compound that primarily works by amplifying the benefits of the other ingredients that it’s paired with. It contains antioxidants from grains, citrus, apples, rice, bran, and oats, to name a few. Ferulic acid may also be formulated in a laboratory.
Skin care products that contain ferulic acid, such as SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, work by neutralising the effects of free radicals on the skin. Free radicals are directly linked to ageing and exposure to external stressors, including infrared radiation, UVA/UVB rays, and pollution. Ferulic acid works by eradicating free radicals; hence it is instrumental in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
What are the best ingredients to pair with ferulic acid?
Ferulic acid is an excellent anti-ageing ingredient on its own. However, it is usually coupled with other skin care ingredients as this compound boosts their beneficial effects. Ferulic acid also stabilises other ingredients, facilitating optimum skin absorption.
Most skin care companies combine ferulic acid with products that contain antioxidant-rich ingredients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, retinoids, resveratrol, and many more.
Ferulic acid with Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Anti-ageing formulations featuring ferulic acid with Vitamins C and E are the most popular combinations on the beauty market. Adding ferulic acid into the mix produces a synergistic effect, ensuring optimum protection from free radical damage.
As Vitamin C loses its antioxidant properties when exposed to sunlight, the addition of ferulic acid stabilises it. This ensures that Vitamin C retains its anti-ageing qualities, no matter its packaging or exposure to UV rays.
Ferulic acid with retinoids and resveratrol
Skincare ingredients with retinol and ferulic acid are popular, too. The exfoliating properties of retinoids with the neutralising power of ferulic acid deliver a smooth and clear complexion free from wrinkles, fine lines, and blemishes.
Resveratrol and ferulic acid work well together. The superior antioxidant activity of both ingredients helps improve skin texture while protecting the skin from free radical damage.
Skincare experts advise users not to combine ferulic acid with exfoliators, such as AHAs and BHAs, as this can reduce the latter’s efficacy.
Bottom Line
Ferulic acid is a potent supplement to other anti-ageing ingredients. It is highly effective in boosting the positive effects of Vitamins C, E, retinoids, and other antioxidant compounds. In addition, the stabilising feature of ferulic acid allows for better nutrient absorption, resulting in ageless and flawless skin. When shopping for skin care products with ferulic acid, purchase from well-known brands with tried-and-tested formulations.
