Beauty Elixir

Can you use Ferulic Acid with PHA?

Safe to mix

Yes, it is safe.

There is no known chemical conflict between Ferulic Acid and PHA, and neither makes the other less effective.

How to use them

Use them in the same routine in the morning. Apply Ferulic Acid first, then PHA, moving from thinnest to thickest texture. Finish with sunscreen in the morning.

  1. 1
    CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
  2. 2
    Ferulic Acid0.5%, wait about 1 minute
  3. 3
    PHA3% – 10%
  4. 4
    Moisturiserthen SPF 50 in the morning

What Ferulic Acid does

A plant antioxidant best known for stabilising vitamins C and E. Together the trio roughly doubles photoprotection compared with vitamin C alone.

Typical strength
0.5%
When
AM
Irritation
Best for
Normal, Dry, Combination And Oily skin

Everything that pairs with Ferulic Acid →

What PHA does

Polyhydroxy acids are the gentlest chemical exfoliants. They work only on the surface, hydrate at the same time, and are usually tolerated by sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.

Typical strength
3% – 10%
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Sensitive, Dry And Normal skin

Everything that pairs with PHA →

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Ferulic Acid and PHA together?

Yes, it is safe. There is no known chemical conflict between Ferulic Acid and PHA, and neither makes the other less effective.

Which goes first, Ferulic Acid or PHA?

Apply Ferulic Acid first, then PHA. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first.

Should I use Ferulic Acid in the morning or at night?

Ferulic Acid: best in the morning. Use in the morning under sunscreen, ideally in a combined C + E + Ferulic serum.

Should I use PHA in the morning or at night?

PHA: works morning or night. You can use it daily. It is a good first acid, or a way to keep exfoliating on retinoid "rest" nights if your skin tolerates it.

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