What is Folic Acid & How Does it Benefit Skin?

Folic Acid, known as a form of Vitamin B9, is a synthetic version of a folate naturally sourced in foods. Folic Acid is important to the body as it regulates the creation of new healthy cells, including red blood cells that carry oxygen. Your body is unable to produce folate, so having a healthy diet or taking supplements with Vitamin B9 can help prevent you from developing anaemia. It is typically referred to as the Vitamin of life.

Folic Acid aids overall cell function, cell growth, and the development of new cells, helping reduce signs of aging. Folic Acid also hydrates your skin, protects it from the sun, and can help prevent acne from emerging. 

1. FOLIC ACID REDUCES SIGNS OF AGEING
Applying folic acid regularly stimulates your skin to produce more Collagen, your skin’s main structural protein. More collagen means firmer skin – making you appear younger by reducing the signs of premature ageing.

2. FOLIC ACID HAS SUN-PROTECTING PROPERTIES
Further folic acid benefits for skin include a reduction in sun damage to skin when exposed to UV rays. The presence of Vitamin B9 can reduce DNA damage to affected skin and its skin firming properties means the drying of skin and wrinkling are less severe when you step out into the sun.

3. FOLIC ACID MAINTAINS MOISTURE
Folic acid also increases your skin’s hydration as it maintains your skin barrier function. This helps to lock in moisture and combat any further signs of dryness. 

4. FOLIC ACID HELPS PREVENT ACNE
Using folic acid daily can help minimise toxins throughout the body too. The antioxidants present in Vitamin B9 are known to reduce oxidative stress on the skin. The result? A reduction in the frequency and severity of acne and pimples.   

5. FOLIC ACID COMBATS SKIN PIGMENTATION FROM FOLATE DEFICIENCY
One of the symptoms caused by Folate deficiency is skin pigmentation. Your skin may start to look more tired when lacking folate, and this is where skincare products with Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) may help bring that radiant glow back.

Applying folic acid regularly stimulates your skin to produce more Collagen, your skin’s main structural protein.

Incorporating Folic Acid into your diet benefits your health immensely. By boosting Vitamin B9 intake, you can easily achieve healthier hair and stronger nails. Folic Acid can aid in fighting harmful diseases and reduce neural-tube birth defects during pregnancy, making it an ingredient that benefits your body in a number of ways.

Folic Acid can naturally be found in foods including leafy greens like broccoli and asparagus, citrus fruits, sunflower seeds, grains, eggs, and seafood. Folic Acid can be found in fortified foods like bread, pasta and cereals. A glass of milk is also an excellent source of Folic Acid. 

Folic Acid can also be found in supplements and tablets, or in skin care products such as gels, moisturisers, creams and serums. Aloe Vera is a great source of Folic Acid and Vitamin B12, which is also an ingredient used to improve skin pigmentation.