Fulvic Acid

Good

Antioxidant

Fulvic Acid at a glance

  • Natural ingredient found in soil, rocks, water
  • Noted in research for its skin-soothing action
  • May also be used for antioxidant/anti-aging benefits
  • Potentially helpful for blemish-prone skin

Fulvic Acid description

Fulvic acid has gained interest in the skin care community, particularly for its notable soothing effects on skin issues related to sensitivity and redness. It is a mineral-rich chemical found in soils, rock deposits and bodies of water that can be extracted and isolated via various techniques for cosmetic use. Among its skin benefits, studies indicate fulvic acid’s antioxidant properties can help defend skin from environmental stressors and potentially deliver anti-aging benefits, such as collagen preservation. Many companies also tout fulvic acid for blemish-prone skin. While research isn’t definitive in this regard, at the very least the soothing action of fulvic acid could prove helpful in calming blemish-prone skin. The fact that several studies call out fulvic acid’s antibacterial properties also bodes well for this concern. While some claim fulvic acid can promote hair growth, this was unfounded during our review of scientific literature. Multiple studies have shown that fulvic acid has shown various clinical benefits including anti-inflammatory, astringent, antioxidant, anti-allergic and anti-microbial properties which makes it a useful option in the management of inflammatory conditions of the skin. Cosmetic chemists note the favorably low molecular weight and high solubility when formulating with fulvic acid. Studies have shown that incorporating fulvic acid into formulations can help enhance the penetration of other ingredients to boost efficacy. Fulvic acid can also act as a chelating agent, meaning it binds to certain metals and keeps them from damaging your skin or hindering product stability. Typical use level as reported by cosmetic suppliers of fulvic acid range from 0.1-1%. *Note:* While fulvic acid shows documented soothing effects, one study noted an immediate burning sensation on initial contact with skin when a 3.5% concentration was applied. The authors of the study noted this may have been due to the formula’s pH of 4.8. Overall, fulvic acid shows great potential in skin care, although we’d like to see more comparative studies and deeper investigation into skin application to get the full picture of how it performs.

Fulvic Acid references

  • Applied Sciences, August 2024, pages 1-24
  • Gels, 2022, pages 1-24
  • Molecules, May 2021, pages 1-10
  • he Indian Practitioner, October 2019, pages 28-31
  • Journal of Diabetes Research, September 2018, pages 1-7
  • Nishinihon Journal of Dermatology, 2012, pages 427-431
  • Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, September 2011, pages 145-148

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.