When it comes to skin care ingredients, there's no more iconic duo than vitamin C and ferulic acid. Chances are you're probably aware that vitamin C is a key ingredient in many of your serums, but what about (the lesser known) ferulic acid?
According to Dr. Mina Amin, a Los Angeles–based board-certified dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists, "ferulic acid is a plant-derived antioxidant that helps to neutralize the impact of environmental factors that could contribute to early signs of aging."
"Ferulic acid also works to stimulate the activity of other antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E," she further explains. In other words, ferulic acid mixed with other ingredients may help improve their effectiveness.
Along with Amin, we spoke with board-certified dermatologist and founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates, Dr. Dara Spearman, to find out more information about ferulic acid and how it interacts with vitamin C and other buzzy skin care ingredients.
Keep scrolling to find the best expert-recommend and editor-tested ferulic acid serums to shop — starting at only $10.
What does ferulic acid do?
When it comes to using serums with ferulic acid, there are various anti-aging benefits for your skin.
"Everyone’s skin has different needs," notes Spearman. "Ferulic acid is a great ingredient in skin care for those with mature skin as it reduces visible signs of aging and helps tighten the skin," she explains.
In terms of blending with other popular ingredients, Amin reiterates that ferulic acid and vitamin C make a great combination. "Vitamin C helps protect the skin from environmental factors like UV exposure that could increase fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging," she adds.
Aside from vitamin C, there are many other notable ingredients that are safe to mix with ferulic acid. Amin mentions that vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide all work well with ferulic acid.
"However, some ingredients you should avoid when using ferulic acid are BHAs and AHAs to prevent excess dryness and irritation," as well as "benzoyl peroxide and retinol,” she advises.
The best ferulic acid serums, according to experts and tested by editors
Budget friendly: The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% Serum
- Helps skin glow
- Quality ingredients
- Affordable
- May cause redness
Size: 1.0 oz. | Other key ingredients: Propanediol, resveratrol
"I love this serum, and it is a great affordable option!" says Spearman. "It helps to protect the skin barrier for environmental factors. It is packed with antioxidants and [is] fragrance free, which I recommend for every kind of skin product because fragrance can contribute to irritation," she explains.
Affordable editor pick: Timeless Vitamin C and E Ferulic Acid Serum
- A little goes a long way
- Some noted odd scent
Size: 1, 1.7 and 4 oz. options | Other key ingredients: Vitamin C
Commerce editor Amanda Fama swears by this Timeless serum and has noticed that her skin is much more hydrated since she started using it. She says that it doesn't irritate her sensitive skin or cause any breakouts. “My complexion is visibly brighter because of it,” Fama raves.
Makes your skin glow: Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster
- Very gentle
- No irritation
- Smooth consistency
- Mixed reviews on smell
Size: 0.67 oz. | Other key ingredients: Vitamin C, ergothioneine
Associate editor Kamari Stewart is a big fan of this C15 Super Booster from Paula's Choice that is formulated with vitamin C and ferulic acid. "I've been using it for two weeks about twice a week and I have experienced zero irritation but absolutely glowing skin!" she shared.
Expert favorite: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Renewal Serum
- Many note positive results
- May cause breakouts
Size: 1.0 oz. | Other key ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan
"This serum is suitable for most skin types and is a gentle formula that can be used daily," shares Spearman. "It works to reduce the appearance of pores, uneven texture and blemishes," she mentions.
Say goodbye to wrinkles: AziMD Skincare Illumic Serum
- Reduces appearance of wrinkles
- Brightens skin
- Expensive
Size: 1.0 oz. | Other key ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, vitamin C
"I love this serum because it is a combination of vitamin C and ferulic acid," says Amin. "The vitamin C works to brighten, correct skin tone, and hydrate while the ferulic acid prevents signs of aging and protects the skin barrier," she explains.
"This is also formulated with hyaluronic acid and a peptide blend which offers an array of anti-aging properties," Amin adds. She loves this pick for brightening, firming and reducing the appearances of fine lines and wrinkles to achieve a more radiant complexion.
Praised by editors and an expert: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
- Your skin clears up
- Smooth texture
- Test beforehand
Size: 1.0 oz. | Other key ingredients: Gylcerin, vitamin C
"This product is not for everyone and shouldn't be layered with most things," advises commerce writer Jannely Espinal. "Previously, I used it on its own at night or in the morning with my sunscreen. It's one of the best anti-aging skin care products I've tried to date," she notes.
"It made my skin brighter and more even after a few months of use and I hardly ever am sad when I finish a product but was sad when I finished this because of how good it is," explains editor Vivien Moon.
"I love this serum because it is also a combination of ferulic acid and vitamin C, and this duo is amazing!" raves Amin. These ingredients work to protect the skin barrier, increase firmness, and help promote a smooth and radiant complexion," she shares.
Frequently asked questions
Amin ensures users that it is safe to use ferulic acid on the skin daily. However, it's important to follow the usage directions on the particular serum that you're using.
How we chose the best ferulic acid serums
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best ferulic acid serums by enlisting the recommendations of board-certified dermatologists. We also asked our editors to share a few of their tried-and-true favorites as well.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Mina Amin is a Los Angeles–based board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology at California Dermatology Specialists.
- Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates.
