Should you be using a serum with ferulic acid?
Wouldn’t hurt
By Erin Cook
October 23 2020
Even for the most seasoned beauty addict, skincare is advancing at an alarming rate. At one point in time, retinol and glycolic acid were our go-tos. Now, serums are infused with a slew of new key ingredients, including niacinamides, alpha arbutin and azelaic acid.
One ingredient worth mentioning is ferulic acid. This powerful antioxidant has the potential to change your skin for the better; when used correctly, it can reduce pigmentation and even out skin tone.
Considering incorporating this anti-ageing hero into your skincare routine? Here, we break down the dos and don'ts of using ferulic acid.
What is ferulic acid?
When exposed to the elements, ferulic acid can lose its potency. "The natural breakdown of ferulic acid in plants can be seen when you slice an apple and leave it exposed to light and air," Paula tells BAZAAR. "The apple turning brown is the ferulic acid (and other antioxidants) losing their effectiveness. That's a great reason to never buy a ferulic acid product packaged in a jar."
What does ferulic acid do for skin?
Who should use products with ferulic acid?
The real question here is: should you use a ferulic acid booster? All signs point to yes. "Ferulic acid can be beneficial for and used by all skin types and all ages," Paula explains. "It's not known to be irritating to skin and in fact is added to grocery items like coffee and dried spices to keep them shelf-stable."
Who shouldn't use products with ferulic acid?
When to apply ferulic acid-based products?
However, if you really want to apply at night, you can: "The 'reserves' of this antioxidant will remain in the skin, ready to help protect it the following day," Paula says.
What are the best ferulic acid products?
Ferulic acid comes into its own when combined with vitamins C and E—ideally, you want a product that contains all three.
Timeless Skincare 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster
