Ferulic acid is an antioxidant compound that can be found in plant cells. It is naturally present in various foods including
- Apples
- Grapes
- Tomatoes
- Eggplant
- Apple seeds
- Cereals
- Coffee
- Grapes
- Parsley
- Peanuts
- Spinach
- Whole grains
Skin care manufacturers infuse it into their products to help lessen inflammation and aging.
This compound is linked with a particular group called hydroxycinnamic acids.
Since ferulic acid is packed with plenty of goodness, it has garnered a great deal of interest. It can fight free radicals and boosts the potency of other antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E. Ferulic acid is also used as a sports supplement because it aids in easing muscle fatigue.
The Benefits of Ferulic Acid for Skin
Ferulic acid is considered to benefit the skin in various ways, including
Restoring and Protecting the Damaged Cells
Ferulic acid aids in equalizing the atoms called free radicals which collapse the body cells causing aging. By neutralizing the damaging effects, it helps protect skin cells from damaging further.
Anti- Aging
Aging is common, but UV light and sun exposure can accelerate the process and lead to premature aging. One of the major reasons for aging is the oxidative stress in the skin’s tissue.
It leads to a loss of elasticity, dullness, wrinkles, and age spots. If free radicals exceed the skin’s antioxidant defense it results in oxidative stress.
Ferulic acid acts as a strong scavenger of free radicals and aids in reducing the aging effects on the skin. Additionally, it prevents saggy and loose skin and curtails the development of wrinkles and fine lines.
Reducing Hyperpigmentation
The excessive production of melanin leads to hyperpigmentation. It appears as a dark patch on certain areas than the rest of the body.
Types of hyperpigmentation include
- Hyperpigmentation acne
- Sunspots
- Melasma
The anti-inflammatory properties of ferulic acid help reduce darkness and inflammation.
Protects Skin from External Factors
Ferulic acid protects the skin from sun damage. It can activate the regrowth and renewal of damaged skin. Radiation and pollution raise sunspots and pigmentation. In this case, it can be used to reduce such effects.
Also, it may help lessen photoaging, the medical term for sun-induced skin allergies.
Products with Ferulic Acid and Ways to Use Them
Ferulic acid is incorporated in plenty of beauty products. Since it is available in powder form, people who prepare their own products can use it.
Products that contain ferulic acid include
Day Serum or Cream: you can apply this after cleansing and before moisturizing. An efficient product might contain around 3% of Ferulic acid.
Night Serums or Creams: Some night serums or creams are blended with ferulic acid and other active ingredients.
Eye Creams: It is a lighter version of the cream described above. To avoid straining the delicate skin around the eyes, use the ring finger to gently massage the product into the skin.
Sunscreens: A sunscreen with ferulic acid would be more effective than one without it.
Brightening Products: Ferulic acid aids in reducing hyperpigmentation and balances the skin’s tone.
Side Effects
Specialists generally consider ferulic acid safe. But always test a new product by applying it on a small area. Particularly for people with sensitive skin and inflammatory conditions.
People with a grain allergy should perform a patch test on their skin to check how their skin reacts. If it doesn’t cause any allergies, it is good to go. Or else consult with your dermatologist before you use any product that contains ferulic acid.