When it comes to skincare, glow-inducing acids are an essential step in your quest for perfect skin. Whilst we’re all familiar with hydrating hyaluronic and exfoliating glycolic, there’s one highly underrated ingredient that’s been flying under most people’s skincare radar: ferulic acid.
Ferulic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free-radical damage from pollution, ultraviolet light, or infrared radiation, all of which accelerate skin ageing.
Generally, as an antioxidant, it doesn’t repair damage that’s already been done, but it acts as a shield to protect against free-radical formation. So how does it work? When something tries to damage your skin, it creates a certain molecule that in its active state will continue to damage and traumatize the skin around it. Ferulic acid swoops in and shuts it down. Therefore, it neutralizes the molecules that are formed that if left alone will continue to damage tissue and cause wrinkles and pigmentation.
For optimal effectiveness, you should choose a ferulic acid serum that comes vacuum packaged in a dark or opaque bottle to protect it from light and air and it should be stored somewhere cool, away from a steamy bathroom. Overall, it’s very well tolerated, but if you have particularly sensitive skin or suffer from eczema or rosacea, always do a patch test behind your ear to see how you’ll react.
Ferulic Acid Benefits
- Prevents the formation of fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduces the potential for sagging skin
- Reduces oxidative damage and inflammation
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and brown spots
- Decreases effects of pollution and redness that causes uneven skin tone
- Minimizes the dark spots that pimples can leave behind
- Reduces pigmentation related to chronic melasma
- Boosts the effects of vitamins C and E and makes them more stable
How to Use It
Whilst you can use ferulic acid twice a day, it’s best used in the morning to help prevent any damage caused by exposure to UV rays and pollution. For best results, apply two to three drops of a ferulic acid serum or cream to clean, dry skin every morning and use your fingers to lightly spread the product evenly over your face. Follow with your moisturizer and sunscreen.
Must-Try Products
