Everything You Need To Know About Ferulic Acid For Skincare

If your pursuit of flawless skin includes a potent anti-aging arsenal, you’ve likely heard the buzz around ferulic acid. Once a supporting cast member, this antioxidant has emerged as a skincare superhero, prized not just for its own benefits, but for its remarkable ability to amplify your existing treatments.

We turn to the experts—Dr DM Mahajan, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, and Dr Chiranjiv Chhabra, Founder & Chief Dermatologist at Alive Wellness Clinics—to break down why this plant-derived ingredient deserves a permanent spot in your vanity.

What Exactly Is Ferulic Acid?

Forget synthetic labs; ferulic acid is a naturally occurring plant antioxidant found in the cell walls of everyday superfoods like oats, rice bran, citrus fruits, and apples.

According to Dr Chiranjiv Chhabra, ferulic acid belongs to the phenolic acid family, which gives it its crucial ability to neutralise free radicals—the unstable molecules generated by UV rays and pollution that relentlessly promote skin ageing.

Dr DM Mahajan notes that in dermatology, it is "prized because it can neutralise free radicals, unstable molecules that promote skin ageing and cellular damage."

Don't miss: Glutathione vs. Vitamin C: Which Antioxidant Reigns Supreme for Skin Glow?

Benefits Of Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid is the definition of a multi-tasker, offering protective, stabilising, and rejuvenating effects for the skin:

• Shields against environmental stressors: It acts as a powerful photoprotective agent, neutralising environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution. This limits the cellular damage that causes ageing.
• Fights signs of ageing: By inhibiting oxidative stress, ferulic acid helps delay premature ageing. It visibly enhances skin elasticity and firmness, leading to a reduction in fine lines and an improvement in overall complexion.
• Brightens and evens tone: It actively reduces oxidative stress that can trigger inflammation and excess melanin production, thereby minimising hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

Ferulic Acid vs. Vitamin C

The question isn't whether Ferulic acid is better than vitamin C; it’s that they are complementary allies and a powerful duo.

Dr Chhabra explains that Vitamin C is an incredible agent—a potent antioxidant that brightens skin and stimulates collagen—but it is notoriously unstable and degrades quickly upon exposure to light and air.

This is where ferulic acid steps in. Dr Mahajan states that ferulic acid's role is to "stabilise and potentiate the activities of other antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E."

When combined, ferulic acid shields vitamin C from oxidation, making it last longer and act more effectively. Research even shows that this potent combination can increase vitamin C's photoprotection by up to eight times, making the pair far more clinically effective than using either ingredient alone.

Don't miss: 7 Best Vitamin C Serums In India In 2025

Who Should Apply Ferulic Acid?

Ferulic acid is a versatile antioxidant, but mindful application is key.

• Photoageing protection: Anyone seeking strong defense against sun damage, pigmentation, and oxidative stress.
• Urban dwellers: Individuals with high exposure to UV radiation or pollution will benefit significantly from its shielding properties.
• Vitamin C users: If you already use a vitamin C serum, adding ferulic acid will enhance your existing results.

Who Should Be Cautious?

• Sensitive skin: Those with extremely sensitive or reactive skin conditions, such as active eczema or rosacea breakouts, should approach with caution.
• Allergies: People with known allergies to ferulic acid-containing plants should avoid it.

Dr Chhabra and Dr Mahajan both advise that a patch test is a wise step before incorporating ferulic acid into your regular routine to ensure your skin tolerates it well. As with any potent active, consulting a dermatologist is always the gold standard, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Image courtesy: Freepik

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.