At a glance
- CAS number
- 1135-24-6
- INCI name
- Ferulic Acid
- Function
- antioxidant, active, uv_filter
- Typical use level
- 0.1%–1%
- Solubility
- both
- Stable pH
- 3–5
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
3-Methoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid trans-Ferulic Acid FA
Compatibility
Works well with:
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) Vitamin E (Tocopherol) Niacinamide Resveratrol Hyaluronic Acid
Use caution with:
Benzoyl Peroxide High pH alkaline actives
Ferulic acid is famously synergistic with L-ascorbic acid and tocopherol, significantly boosting their photostability and antioxidant efficacy — this trio is well-documented in peer-reviewed literature. It requires a low-pH environment (ideally 3.0–4.5) for optimal stability and bioavailability; in alkaline formulas it degrades rapidly. It can be mildly destabilizing in the presence of strong oxidizing agents like benzoyl peroxide.
Formulation notes
Ferulic acid is a hydroxycinnamic acid-derived phenolic antioxidant found naturally in plant cell walls (rice bran, wheat bran, oat bran). It neutralizes free radicals, provides mild UV-absorbing properties, and substantially extends the shelf stability and skin efficacy of co-formulated antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E. At higher concentrations it may cause a slight yellowing of the finished formula, which formulators should anticipate.
Related ingredients
- Ascorbic AcidAntioxidant
- AstaxanthinAntioxidant
- TocopherolAntioxidant
- Tocopheryl AcetateAntioxidant
- Azelaic AcidActive
- BakuchiolActive