Despite its name, ferulic acid (formally known as hydroxycinnamic acid) isn’t actually an acid – it’s an antioxidant. It is naturally found in the cell walls of many plants, fruits and vegetables, including bamboo, corn bran, red cabbage, and even in grits. Ferulic acid is usually available in liquid form, is often found in serums and moisturizers and is used along with other skin care ingredients like vitamins C and E, niacinamide and resveratrol. What is it and how is it used in the fight against aging?
The benefits of ferulic acid in the fight against aging
Benefits of ferulic acid
Like most other antioxidant ingredients, ferulic acid can provide a range of skin care benefits, the most important of which is its ability to neutralize free radical damage caused by pollution and UV and infrared rays.
The main benefit of ferulic acid is that it protects against free radical damage caused by UV rays that contribute to aging by inhibiting enzymes that increase free radical damage. As a result, ferulic acid has been shown to help prevent the formation of hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles while at the same time protecting the integrity of skin fibroblasts, collagen and elastin so it can maintain its plump, youthful appearance.
Ferulic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties, which studies have shown can provide many therapeutic benefits, including helping reduce the appearance of redness and post-inflammatory pigmentation (that is, those red marks left by pimples).
You’ll usually find ferulic acid paired with vitamin C and ascorbic acid, which can not only help stabilize the ingredient but also enhance its antioxidant effects. Ferulic acid has the ability to offer nearly twice the amount of light protection when combined with both vitamins C and E.
I like to formulate ferulic acid with other ingredients like antioxidants because it works to give you better protection from free radicals like UV rays, pollution and blue light. This is also why you find it mixed with other active ingredients like Retinol and Bakuchiol.
How to use ferulic acid in your skincare routine
If you’re interested in incorporating ferulic acid into your daily routine, experts recommend looking for a serum (moisturizers work, too) that pairs the ingredient with other antioxidants or active ingredients, as it plays well with just about everything. It is best to combine it in the form of a vitamin C serum, as studies have shown it to be more effective.
As for the correct time of day to use a ferulic acid serum or moisturizer, doctors say it’s best to use it as part of your morning routine to help create an extra layer of sun protection. But you can also use it as part of your nighttime routine, as ferulic acid helps neutralize sensitivity The product of retinol, which many people use at night.
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