As the end of summer approaches, you may be thinking about the effect that sun has had on your skin over the past few months. It’s easy to see the damage we do when our skin burns. However, what we can’t see in real time is how UVA damages our skin and this is what brings us to today’s spotlight ingredient: ferulic acid.

My teenage self, who was a lot less careful with sun protection, is thankful to have this powerhouse to help reverse the harm I did in my youth. If you can believe it, I was convinced that at some point my skin would finally begin to tan. Luckily, I finally realised that is NEVER, EVER going to happen.

Ferulic acid is just what you need to reverse skin damage as it will help ensure new cells are performing optimally. I apply it to keep my skin acting as it should and to help prevent premature ageing. It also boosts other skincare ingredients to work harder and longer than when they are applied on their own. It's a great addition to Vitamin C, which is often how you'll find it paired.

Finally, ferulic acid offers antioxidant support to the skin, which helps eliminate free radical damage: collagen break down, pigmentation and irritation.

If this sounds like a ingredient that might be right for you, take a look at these options from: Paula’s Choice, SkinCeuticals and Dr Dennis Gross. In addition, I up my daily dose of ferulic acid with my new favourite sunscreen, which prevents and repairs sun damage while protecting me from UV light.  Brilliant!

Here’s where you can find ingredient info on retinol, squalane and niacinamide.