Ferulic acid is a potent antioxidant that is generally well-tolerated by all skin types. It is increasingly found in skincare products where it acts as a photoprotective agent, delaying the processes of photoaging of the skin, and as a brightening component.
Everything you need to know about ferulic acid.
Summary
Published on November 4, 2021, updated on April 16, 2025, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 4 min of reading
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Ferulic Acid, an overview.
Ferulic acid, with the chemical formula C10H10O4, is a phenolic acid derived from cinnamic acid. It gets its name from the genus Ferula (giant fennel), a group of herbaceous plants belonging to the large Apiaceae family. Ferulic acid is found in certain fruits and vegetables such as spinach and rhubarb, as well as in cereals (oats, rye, corn) and tree barks (fir and pine).
One of the most notable characteristics of ferulic acid is its antioxidant power, or its ability to neutralize free radicals. To clarify, free radicals are highly reactive molecules due to their extreme instability caused by their unpaired electron. Free radicals degrade healthy cells and proteins in the body and accelerate the aging process. The hydroxy and phenoxy groups of ferulic acid donate electrons to deactivate free radicals by making them more stable and therefore less reactive.
In cosmetics, ferulic acid is used in serums, creams, lotions, and cleansers to make the skin brighter, firmer, and smoother.
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The benefits of ferulic acid on the skin.
Free radicals are the cause of oxidative stress, a phenomenon that accelerates the aging of the body's cells. These highly reactive molecules are naturally generated by our metabolism during energy production but can also be overproduced due to various factors such as smoking, stress, pollution, or poor diet.
Thanks to its comprehensive antioxidant action, ferulic acid neutralizes free radicals, thereby combating premature skin aging. It provides numerous benefits to the epidermis, among which we can mention:
The prevention of the onset of wrinkles and skin sagging;
The reduction of inflammation and redness;
Skin brightening;
The prevention of the appearance of pigmented spots.
The Typology Ferulic Acid Serum.
Our antioxidant serum enriched with ferulic acid and ashitaba extract protects the skin from daily aggressions (pollution, tobacco, UV...) and the free radicals they generate. It helps slow down skin aging and the appearance of aging signs such as wrinkles or pigmentation spots, for a brighter and firmer skin. This care is suitable for all skin types but should not be used by pregnant and/or breastfeeding women as a precautionary principle.
The dangers and contraindications of ferulic acid.
Ferulic acid is a gentle antioxidant generally well tolerated by all skin types. However, before using a skincare product containing it, perform a skin test by applying a few drops of the product to the inside of your arm. If you observe a skin reaction, do not use your ferulic acid skincare product. It is also recommended to avoid contact with the eyes, and in case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with clear water.
It is advisable to avoid combining a ferulic acid treatment with retinoids or vitamin A-based products.
Sources
GRAF E. Antioxidant potential of ferulic acid. Free Radical Biology and Medicine (2000).
MENON P. & al. Ferulic Acid: Therapeutic Potential Through Its Antioxidant Property. Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition (2007).
