Ferulic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in plants, such as bran. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant properties, meaning it can neutralise free radicals before they can cause any cellular damage. It has also been shown to stabilise Vitamins C and E when used in combination, resulting in a boost in their efficacy vs being used without the addition of Ferulic acid.

Renude

I have chosen this cult brightening serum to target pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble Vitamin contained in many plant oils, or can also be produced synthetically. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

alpha tocopherol

Ferulic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in plants, such as bran. It’s used in skincare for its antioxidant properties, meaning it can neutralise free radicals before they can cause any cellular damage. It has also been shown to stabilise Vitamins C and E when used in combination, resulting in a boost in their efficacy vs being used without the addition of Ferulic acid.

ferulic acid

L-ascorbic acid is Vitamin C in its purest form, and the active form required by the body to result in the many skin skin benefits of Vitamin C. The issue with L-ascorbic acid is in the delivery, as it is very unstable in water, and needs a pH 4 or below for it to penetrate the skin. That being said, when it can be stabilised in a formula and is able to penetrate the skin, it provides the highest potency of any form of Vitamin C currently available.

l-ascorbic acid

Vitamin C has many skin benefits, including its action as an antioxidant, to neutralise free radicals (reactive molecules with an unpaired electron), preventing them from causing damage to cells within the body. Vitamin C is also involved in the collagen-production process, so provides anti-wrinkle activity through this mechanism. Lastly, Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin-synthesis, and can therefore visibly reduce areas of hyperpigmentation in the skin.

Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid (a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body), created to improve the ingredient stability. It works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

sodium hyaluronate

Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body. Hyaluronic acid works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

C E Ferulic features a synergistic antioxidant combination of 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (alpha tocopherol), and 0.5% ferulic acid to enhance protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to atmospheric aging. This vitamin C serum helps neutralize free radicals induced by UVA/UVB, infrared radiation (IRA), and ozone pollution (O3), which may lead to visible signs of accelerated skin aging. In addition to antioxidant protective benefits, C E Ferulic improves signs of aging and photodamage, the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and the loss of firmness, while brightening skin's complexion.

• Provides advanced environmental protection by neutralizing damaging free radicals
• Visible anti-aging benefits, such as the improvement of the appearance of lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness, and brightens skin’s complexion
• Neutralizes free radicals on the upper layer of the skin to help prevent the impact of ozone damage to skin
• Once absorbed, this vitamin C serum remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours
• Paraben-free and ideal for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types
• Tested suitable for use post-laser, always consult with a physician for individual post-procedure care

I've chosen this oil free SPF for you to offer daily uv protection without any heaviness. This formula also contains a host of antioxidants to protect the skin further.

Caffeic acid is a powerful naturally-occurring antioxidant found in most plants. It is able to protect the skin by neutralising damage-causing free radicals. Studies have also shown this ingredient to also have an anti-inflammatory effect within the skin, which can have a beneficial effect on acne, redness and preventing premature ageing.

Caffeic acid

Known as FernBlock, this is a patented active from Heliocare, developed alongside Harvard medical school. It is derived from a tropical fern native to South America, and works by protecting against UVB-induced sunburn, as well as protecting against UVA and Infrared wavelengths. The active is also able to support cell renewal and protect from cumulative damage caused by sun exposure (such as ageing and DNA damage). It is an antioxidant, protecting against free radicals, and has been shown to boost production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin.

FernBlock

Phytosphingosine (PS) is a lipid which naturally occurs in the stratum corneum (the top, visible layer of our epidermis). This acts as a precursor for ceramide synthesis, meaning it encourages the skin to produce ceramides naturally.

Studies have also shown PS to offer anti-acne benefits, it is believed by reinforcing the protective barrier, and therefore reducing specific abnormalities in the skin functioning that lead to acne (invading inflammatory bacteria, increased keratinization, increased sebaceous gland activity).

phytosphingosine

Our outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, has a multilamellar structure (essentially a fine membrane), made up of lipids (fats), to form a non-permeable barrier. This keeps water inside the skin, and acts as the first defense against external aggressors. The lipids which make up the majority of this are known as ceramides, which are produced naturally in the body from a range of other naturally-occurring lipids, which we class here as essential lipids (not the same as essential fatty acids, which are deemed ‘essential’ as the body cannot produce these naturally.) Using these lipids in skincare helps to support the natural skin barrier, preventing water-loss to keep skin hydrated and balanced.

Tocopheryl acetate is a specific form of the fat-soluble Vitamin E, with improved stability vs. Tocopherol. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

tocopheryl acetate

Unique oil-free dry touch texture with advanced filters and Bioshield System that provides broad spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, Visible Light and IR-A. Enriched with Fernblock® FC for powerful antioxidant activity, and actives which repair sun damage, such as DNA damage and premature skin aging. Enriched with anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and sebum controlling technology, it is recommended for sensitive and acne prone skin. Its oil-free dry touch formulation makes it particularly suitable for normal, combination and oily skin types, reducing shine caused by humid climate. Paraben free.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential in every skincare routine. These oil-free options will layer over other products perfectly, leaving the skin matte.

Oil free sunscreen picks

This oil-free formula contains broad-spectrum sun protection, alongside Heliocare's signature FernBlock technology which helps to protect the DNA from damage from UV.

This lightweight sun fluid contains both synthetic and mineral filters, and provides a lightweight protection to the skin. The formula protects against protection against both UVA and UVB rays, as well as high energy visible light.

This fragrance free formula is a great high-protection option for combination and oily skin types. It contains glycyrrhetinic ccid (derived from liquorice) to support the skins renewal process, Licochalcone a to provide antioxidant protection, and micro-powders and l-carnitine to absorb sebum, proven to leave a matte finish for 8 hours.

Non-comedogenic

Dermatologically tested

Vegan

I have chosen this oil-free, non-comedogenic formula as your daily SPF step, to provide broad-spectrum protection against UV damage. Not suitable for aspirin allergy sufferers.

arginine

ascorbic acid

Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a broad-spectrum UV filter, protecting across the whole UVA and UVB wavelength range (280-400nm). It is a chemical filter (as opposed to mineral/physical), which works by absorbing UVB light in the outer layers of the epidermis, then converting it into heat (to neutralise the energy which can lead to cell damage), and scattering it away from the body.

It is very photostable, so does not degrade in the presence of sunlight, unlike some other UV filters on the market. It has also been shown to improve the UV stability of other more sensitive filters, when used in combination.

bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine

Chemical UV filters (as opposed to mineral or physical UV filters) work by absorbing UVB light in the outer layers of the epidermis, then converting it into heat (to neutralise the energy which can lead to cell damage), and scattering it away from the body. 

Titanium dioxide is a naturally-occurring mineral found in abundance on earth. It is used as a UV filter in sun protection products, as it offers broad spectrum protection against both UVB and UVA wavelengths (although marginally less broad vs. zinc oxide)

It is a white powder, and works on the skin by creating a very fine film on the skin, which due to its colour, is able to reflect a broad spectrum of UV light, preventing it from entering the skin to cause any cell damage. It has great skin compatibility so is suitable for sensitive skin types.

titanium dioxide

Mineral UV filters are naturally-occurring mineral powders, used in sun protection products to deflect UV light. They work by forming a very fine layer over the skin, which is white and therefore able to reflect the full spectrum of UV light, to offer broad-spectrum sun protection. There are currently two mineral UV filters on the market: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

triazine diethyl butamidotriazone

Unique oil-free dry touch texture with advanced filters and Bioshield System that provides broad spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, Blue Light (High Energy Visible Light) and IR-A. Enriched with Fernblock® FC for powerful antioxidant activity, and actives which repair sun damage, such as DNA damage and premature skin aging. Enriched with anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and sebum controlling technology, it is recommended for sensitive and acne prone skin. Its oil-free dry touch formulation makes it particularly suitable for normal, combination and oily skin types, reducing shine caused by humid climate.

Paraben and alcohol free.

I have added this SPF50 body sunscreen to your routine to protect your skin. The formula includes ingredients to protect against UVA, UVB and infra-red wavelengths. It also includes Heliocare's patented FernBlock technology which provides antioxidant protection to the skin.

Ascorbyl palmitate is an oil-soluble Vitamin C ester, produced by the reaction of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. This oil-soluble form works to improve stability against oxidation (something L-ascorbic acid is notorious for), as well as improve skin affinity to allow the ingredient to penetrate further.

ascorbyl palmitate

camellia sinensis (green tea) leaf extract

Green Tea is a natural plant extract, rich in polyphenols, also known as catechins. Green Tea is particularly high in the catechin Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is a powerful antioxidant, meaning it can neutralise free radicals to prevent them causing damage within the skin. It is one of the most well researched natural plant extracts used in skincare, with studies also showing it to have an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effect.

A large 200ml aerosol spray for use on the body. Absorbs quickly with an invisible, non-oily finish. Water resistant and effective on wet skin – perfect for when you jump out of the pool! It can also be sprayed from any angle providing easy, even application.

I have chosen this exfoliating treatment for you to boost your daily skincare routine. Used weekly, this helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone and refine overall texture.

Allantoin occurs naturally in the body, but can also be derived from the root of the Comfrey plant or Chamomile, or produced synthetically. It is used in skincare for its ability to promote wound healing and healthy tissue growth, by stimulating the fibroblasts in the dermis to produce collagen and elastin fibres, essential tissues for skin regeneration and healing. Allantoin has also been shown to have soothing and anti-irritant properties, which is thought to be down to its ability to form complexes with irritating agents, thus preventing them from activating inflammatory mechanisms within the skin.

allantoin

aloe barbadensis extract

Aloe vera has been used for millennia as a natural medicine across many regions of the world, with references as early as Cleopatra using it as part of her beauty routine. It contains around 75 active constituents, including Vitamins A,C & E to provide antioxidant protection, 8 enzymes to inhibit inflammatory processes in the body and 9 different minerals to support the body’s natural functioning. It also includes sugars to provide hydrating humectant properties, fatty acids to provide anti-inflammatory & antiseptic properties, and hormones to promote wound healing. 

Gluconolactone is a poly hydroxy acid (PHA). PHAs work by gently dissolving the keratin that binds our outermost layer of skin cells, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin, leading to smoother, clearer skin. This process also encourages new skin cell generation in the basal layer of the epidermis, a process which naturally slows with age, so with repeated use this can have an overall anti-ageing effect on the skin. Gluconolactone has also been shown to inhibit the enzyme elastase, which breaks down elastin in the skin (an essential protein produced by the fibroblasts), leading to sagging of the skin.

PHAs are much larger in molecular weight vs AHAs so they cannot penetrate the skin as fast or as far, which therefore makes more gentle & suitable for more sensitive skin types, including those with rosacea-prone skin. Gluconolactone is also especially good for drier skin types as it also has natural humectant qualities, meaning it draws water towards it, hydrating the skin from within. 

gluconolactone

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) work by gently dissolving the keratin that binds our outermost layer of skin cells, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin, leading to smoother, clearer skin. This process also encourages new skin cell generation in the basal layer of the epidermis, a process which naturally slows with age, so with repeated use this can have an overall anti-ageing effect on the skin. Gluconolactone has also been shown to inhibit the enzyme elastase, which breaks down elastin in the skin (an essential protein produced by the fibroblasts), leading to sagging of the skin.

PHAs are much larger in molecular weight vs AHAs so they cannot penetrate the skin as fast or as far, which therefore makes more gentle & suitable for more sensitive skin types, including those with rosacea-prone skin. Gluconolactone is also especially good for drier skin types as it also has natural humectant qualities, meaning it draws water towards it, hydrating the skin from within. 

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from sugar cane. AHAs work by dissolving the keratin binding the outermost layer of skin cells, speeding up the skin’s natural exfoliation process. This leads to smoother, brighter, clearer skin, whilst reducing skin discolouration & fine lines/wrinkles with continued use.

Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular weight of all the AHAs, meaning it can penetrate the skin quickest, producing the fastest results, but also most likely to cause skin sensitivity, so it is best for those with fairly tolerant skin types.

glycolic acid

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which occurs naturally in the body, as well as being found in dairy products, but is typically derived synthetically for cosmetics today.

AHAs work by dissolving the keratin binding the outermost layer of skin cells, speeding up the skin’s natural exfoliation process. This leads to smoother, brighter, clearer skin, whilst reducing skin discolouration & fine lines/wrinkles with continued use.  

lactic acid

Panthenol is a form of Vitamin B5, which is converted into Pantothenic acid within the epidermis when applied topically. Its main benefit in cosmetics is as a humectant, meaning it can draw water molecules to it, hydrating and plumping the area it has been applied to.

Panthenol also supports the natural lipid barrier of the skin, by encouraging the production of a precursor to fatty acids & sphingolipids, both of which are essential parts of the skin barrier. This mechanism helps to moisturise the skin by reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), therefore retaining more moisture within the skin. This also helps to reduce inflammation in dry or broken skin, as an intact skin barrier will prevent potential irritants from getting into the epidermis.

panthenol

Vitamin B5 is as a humectant, meaning it can draw water molecules to it, hydrating and plumping the area it has been applied to. It also supports the natural lipid barrier of the skin, by encouraging the production of a precursor to fatty acids & sphingolipids, both of which are essential parts of the skin barrier. This mechanism helps to moisturise the skin by reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), therefore retaining more moisture within the skin. This also helps to reduce inflammation in dry or broken skin, as an intact skin barrier will prevent potential irritants from getting into the epidermis.

shea butter

Shea butter is the natural butter of the shea nut, which grows in West Africa. It is high in fatty acids and vitamins, so works to support the natural lipid barrier of the skin, reducing water loss via the epidermis to keep skin soft, smooth and moisturised.

Squalane is a natural substance usually derived from olives. It is structurally very similar to our skin’s own sebum, so is a great ingredient to support our own natural skin processes. In drier skin, which is naturally lacking in natural sebum, it helps to support the skin barrier to prevent water loss, which results in more hydrated, smooth and plump skin. Due to its sebum-mimicking structure, it is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause breakouts, so is also suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. It can be a great option to reduce any over-stimulation of the sebaceous glands, which can occur with excess cleansing (and make breakouts worse). It also works to support the skin barrier to combat any drying effects caused by ingredients commonly associated with acne treatment, so is a great ingredient for all skin types.

squalane

Liquid Gold Ultimate Perfecting Mask is an advanced home peel which clears and refines pores, reinvigorates collagen production and draws moisture to the surface of the skin. Get the Liquid Gold effect, in just 10 minutes! Removes unwanted dead skin cell buildup. Increases cellular renewal. Maintains a healthy, firmer and more hydrated skin. Promotes even skin tone by exfoliating and lifting surface pigmented cells. Improves radiance and luminosity. Probiotic extract balances skin’s microbiome.

I have chosen this fragrance-free, mineral SPF for your daily regime to protect against uv. It's a super gentle formula so a great option for more sensitive skin.

3-0-Ethyl ascorbic acid is a modified version of L-ascorbic acid (pure Vitamin C), designed to improve its stability and skin penetration abilities, to achieve optimum skin benefits. Once absorbed into the skin, the ethyl group is removed, and l-ascorbic acid is returned to its active form, where it can best support the skin to achieve visible brightening & anti-ageing results.

ethyl ascorbic acid

tocopherol acetate

Heliocare 360º Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF 50 is a photoprotector formulated with 100% physical filters and very broad coverage against UVB, UVA, IR-A and visible. It is for normal/ combination skins and those especially indicated for a sensitive and intolerant skin. It has an almost invisible finish to suit everyone. Its 360 ° formula combines the exclusive Fernblock® FC technology alongside other active ingredients that guarantee photoimmunoprotection, intense antioxidant and restorative action against sun damage.

These are all mineral-based sunscreen formulas, which work by creating a reflective shield across the skin, which uv cannot penetrate.

Mineral sunscreen picks

This mineral sunscreen contains a blend of titanium and zinc oxides to offer broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is non-comedogenic and also includes hyaluronic acid to hydrate and niacinamide to brighten and balance.

This high protection SPF50 fluid not only protects against UVA and UVB, but also against infra-red and blue light, which can also cause damage to the skin (blue light is emitted from the sun, as well as from mobile phones/computer screens). The formula also includes FernBlock technology to provide antioxidant protection and intense skin repairing benefits. In terms of protection, Heliocare's 360 range offers some of the most advanced formulas on the market. Fragrance free.

Sensitive

Unfragranced

I have chosen this high-strength brightening serum as part of your morning routine, to target pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.

Bisabolol is a naturally-occurring active found in the chamomile plant, although this can also be created synthetically. It’s key properties are as an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, with some studies also showing it to have a brightening effect on the skin. Bisabolol is also a rich source of Panthenol (Vitamin B5), which acts as a humectant, meaning it draws water molecules towards it to plump and hydrate the area. Studies have also shown that bisabolol can enhance the penetration of other actives into the skin, so is great when used in combination with other actives designed to work at the basal layer of the epidermis, or in fact the dermis.

bisabolol

Glycerin is a humectant present in all natural lipids. It works to attract water molecules towards it, plumping & hydrating the applied area, resulting in smooth, soft, hydrated skin. It is one of the most widely used humectants in skincare, due to it’s high performance and broad availability (making it very cost-effective). Recent research has shown that it’s ability to penetrate the layers of the skin is superior to that of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, making it a brilliant choice for overall skin hydration, and suitable for all skin types.

glycerin

Tocopherol, aka Vitamin E, is a fat-soluble Vitamin contained in many plant oils, or can also be produced synthetically. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

tocopherol

This concentrated booster with 15% pure vitamin C dramatically brightens uneven skin while improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. C15 Super Booster contains a highly concentrated form of vitamin C and an assortment of skin-stabilizing antioxidants and skin-replenishing ingredients. Combined, they provide exceptional results including improving the appearance of uneven skin tone, brightening a dull complexion, and helping skin ward off the impact of environmental assaults.

I have chosen this high strength Vitamin C serum to brighten the skin and target pigmentation.

hyaluronic acid

Garden of Wisdom Vitamin C 23% + Ferulic Acid Serum provides high strength pure L-ascorbic acid to brighten and even out skin tone whilst Ferulic acid helps protect skin against free radical damage. Vitamin C or specifically L-ascorbic acid, L-AA, is a powerful antioxidant with credible body of research supporting its skin benefits. Vitamin C has been shown to defend skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure whilst enhancing the production of collagen. L-AA antioxidant powers also help prevent the oxidation of melanin, skin's natural pigment, resulting in a clearer, brighter and more even skin tone. Vitamin C serum also helps to inhibit the production of skin pigment, melanin, and is so used to prevent and treat hyperpigmentation. Ferulic acid is a powerful antioxidant found in the cell walls of plants. Ferulic acid not only protects vitamin C against oxidation but has been found to be destroying the superoxide and hydroxyl radicals thus helping to protect skin against ageing. Ferulic acid is particularly beneficial for protecting skin against sun damage. pH range of 3.1 - 3.4.

Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to protect the skin, as well as helping to reduce visible hyperpigmentation, and improve overall radiance.

Vitamin C serum picks - Ascorbic acid

This aesthetician favourite combines 15% L-ascorbic acid (the most potent form of Vitamin C) alongside copper growth peptides and is clinically proven to improve skin texture and tone over time. The formula also includes arbutin to help fade pigmentation marks, plus hyaluronic acid, urea and extracts of centella asiatica to hydrate and soothe the skin, mitigating any potential side effects of the high strength Vitamin C.

This formula combines 15% L-ascorbic acid alongside additional antioxidants vitamin e, b5 and glutathione. Perfect for those looking to maximise their daily antioxidant protection.

A very high-strength formula, this is well suited to those who do not have sensitive skin or those who are used to using vitamin c in their regime already. It is paired with hyaluronic acid, panthenol and allantoin to hydrate and soothe, so may be possible to introduce slowly into your routine even if you haven't used a vitamin c product before (if this is what your expert recommends).

This is a super high-strength water-based serum which includes 23% pure L-ascorbic acid plus Ferulic acid to offer antioxidant protection and to stabilise the Vitamin C. This one tingles on application as it gets to work, and really delivers on results.

Ferulic Acid

What is Ferulic Acid?

What does Ferulic Acid do?

Who is Ferulic Acid good for?

Who should avoid Ferulic Acid?

Ferulic Acid

What is Ferulic Acid?

What does Ferulic Acid do?

Who is Ferulic Acid good for?

Who should avoid Ferulic Acid?

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