Ferulic Acid: Properties and Cosmetic Applications
What Is Ferulic Acid?
Ferulic Acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid) is a naturally occurring phenolic compound found in various plants. It is commonly extracted from rice bran (Oryza sativa) and is available as an odourless, pale-yellow crystalline powder.
Ferulic acid was first isolated in 1886 from Ferula foetida by Hlasiwetz and Barth in Innsbruck, Austria. It was subsequently identified in other plant sources, including Pinus laricio, before rice bran became one of its common commercial sources.
Antioxidant Properties
Ferulic acid is widely valued in cosmetic formulation for its antioxidant properties. It can scavenge superoxide anion radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation induced by superoxides.
These properties make ferulic acid particularly relevant to formulations designed to provide antioxidant protection and to help protect cosmetic ingredients from oxidative degradation.
Natural UV Absorption
Ferulic acid also has UV-absorbing properties, with maximum absorption occurring between approximately 300 and 320 nm.
Because of this characteristic, it is used in cosmetic formulations where antioxidant protection and UV-related formulation considerations are relevant. Its presence in a cosmetic formulation should not, however, be interpreted as providing sufficient sun protection unless the finished product has been appropriately formulated and tested for the relevant SPF and UVA claims.
Ferulic Acid in Cosmetic Formulation
Ferulic acid can be incorporated into cosmetic formulations where antioxidant activity and protection against oxidative processes are desired. It is particularly relevant to skin-care and anti-ageing formulations, often as part of antioxidant systems containing other active ingredients.
When formulating with ferulic acid, its solubility, concentration, pH compatibility and stability should be considered to ensure that the ingredient can be incorporated effectively into the finished product.
Ingredient Information
INCI Name: Ferulic Acid
CAS Number: 1135-24-6
EINECS Number: 214-490-0
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