Folic Acid

Folic acid is the synthetic, oxidized form of vitamin B9 used in supplements and cosmetic products. In topical formulas, it acts as a water-soluble vitamin ingredient for antioxidant support and basic skin-conditioning roles.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A synthetic form of vitamin B9 used for mild antioxidant support.
Category
Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
Type
Antioxidant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Offers antioxidant assistance to help minimize the impact of everyday stressors, contributing to a more balanced appearance. Data for topical performance is modest and not well established.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Included in moisturizers, leave-on treatments, and essences to provide a water-soluble vitamin addition to skincare blends.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Typically well tolerated, with a low likelihood of irritation at cosmetic doses. Activity may decline with light and air exposure, so sensitive users should patch test.

Is Folic Acid a Good Ingredient?

Fair reflects the limited clinical support for topical folic acid and uncertainty about how well it penetrates skin, so benefits are likely modest. Irritation is uncommon but does occur in some users, which keeps it from a better rating.

Products with Folic Acid

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