What it is
Ferulic Acid is derived from plant cell walls. It can be found in wheat, oats, brown rice, coffee, peanuts, oranges and apples.
What it does
Ferulic Acid is a potent antioxidant that helps fight free radicals damage. It can provide benefits for the skin when used alone, but studies have shown that, when used with Vitamins C and E (both of which have antioxidant properties too), it can enhance their effects.
There is some preliminary research that shows that Ferulic Acid can help stabilize Vitamin C in a water soluble solution. However, some degradation still occurs. And when used with both Vitamins C and E, it increases protection from the damage caused by UV rays.
There is such research that suggests that Ferulic Acid can offer some protection from UV rays and help prevent sun damage. However, it is not a substitute for sunscreen!
Side effects
Ferulic Acid can be derived from corn, wheat or barley. If you are allergic to them, consult your doctor before using products containing this ingredient to avoid a negative reaction.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks, very informative.
.-= Emilita´s last blog ..Crazy Awesome Couple of Days =-.
This ingredient seems to be so good so for the skin!! Do you know any creams or products that have it on their composition?
.-= Eru´s last blog ..DuWop’s Twilight Venom: review, pictures and swatches. =-.
Emilita: you’re welcome.
Eru: there aren’t many studies on ferulic acid but so far the ingredient seems very promising and I’m sure we’ll see it in more and more products soon. Unfortunately for the moment it’s hard to find products that include ferulic acid.
I know Skinceutical has one called CE Ferulic that contains 15% L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), 1% of Vitamin E and 0.5% Ferulic Acid. Although the concentartion of Ferulic Acid is small, the mix of antioxidants will be benficial for the skin, if the product is stored properly.
It is very expensive though ($139!), so if you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can just purchase a small tube of Ferulic Acid and make you own products. You can check out this website (http://www.skinactives.com) for more info. They sell ingredients and also have some DIY recipes if you wanna make your own products.