EWG Safety Score
What Is Fulvic Acid?
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.\n\nAmong 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.\n\nMany 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.\n\nWhile 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.\n\nCosmetic 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.\n\nTypical use level as reported by cosmetic suppliers of fulvic acid range from 0.1-1%.\n\nNote: 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.\n\nOverall, 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.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
Applied Sciences, August 2024, pages 1-24 Applied Sciences, 2024
-
Gels, 2022, pages 1-24 Gels, 2022
-
Molecules, May 2021, pages 1-10 Molecules, 2021
-
he Indian Practitioner, October 2019, pages 28-31 he Indian Practitioner, 2019
-
Journal of Diabetes Research, September 2018, pages 1-7 Journal of Diabetes Research, 2018
-
Nishinihon Journal of Dermatology, 2012, pages 427-431 Nishinihon Journal of Dermatology, 2012
Related Ingredients
3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
A more stable derivative of pure vitamin C Capable of helping fade dark spots
Acacia Seyal Gum Extract
Type of polysaccharide
Acai
Potent source of skin-beneficial antioxidants Contains ferulic acid and epicatechin
Acer Saccharum Extract
Plant extract noted in research for its antioxidant compounds
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.