Ethyl Ferulate

Good

Antioxidant

Ethyl Ferulate at a glance

  • Forms from esterification (combining of alcohols and acids) of ferulic acid and ethyl alcohol
  • Helps protect skin from environmental stressors that can lead to signs of aging
  • Has soothing benefits when formulated in emulsions
  • Often found in sunscreen products due to its supporting role in thwarting UV damage
  • Naturally occurring, though mostly produced synthetically for cosmetic purposes

Ethyl Ferulate description

Ethyl ferulate is an ester of the powerful antioxidant ferulic acid and ethyl alcohol. Much like its parent acid, ethyl ferulate functions as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize the impact of external aggressors that contribute to signs of aging and is particularly adept at supporting skin’s defenses when exposed to UV light. This particular benefit is why ethyl ferulate is often incorporated into sunscreens. Further research has shown that ethyl ferulate can help soothe skin in the face of environmental stressors, like UV rays and pollution, when added to creams and lotions. Although ethyl ferulate is most commonly created for the purpose of cosmetic use through synthetic esterification, it can also be isolated from rice bran oil. As a raw material, it often appears as a creamy white powder or as granules of the same color. In cosmetic formulations, it’s most often found between concentrations of 0.5% and 1%. Toxicity testing has confirmed the safety of this ingredient.

Ethyl Ferulate references

  • Drug and Chemical Toxicity, July 2022, pages 1,769-1,779
  • Journal of Food Biochemistry, February 2021, ePublication
  • Pubmed Central, May 2021, accessed June 2022
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2020, pages 313-319
  • Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents, February 2019, pages 73–83
  • Molecules, March 2014, pages 8,124-8,139
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, October 2010, pages 44-51

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.