What Is Fulvic Acid? Everything to Know About the Rising Ayurvedic Skincare Ingredient

By Dahvi Shira

Published on Jul 10, 2025 • 4 min read

Photo by PeopleImages / Getty Images

You may have seen fulvic acid pop up in tinctures and other wellness supplements, as discussed on social media. The natural substance—known to help the body’s immune system, microbiome, gastrointestinal function/gut health, and eliminating toxicity of heavy metals and trace minerals—is commonly found in Shilajit formulas. But as of very recently, the ingredient, frequently derived from root vegetables and found in peat, has been popping up more commonly in skincare. According to Indian Ayurveda healing history, the ingredient has been used indirectly for approximately 3,000 years.

“Fulvic acid is not an exfoliating acid like glycolic acid, lactic acid, azelaic acid, anything like that,” explained licensed esthetician and acne specialist Ella Elston, on TikTok. “It’s going to be more of a nourishing acid like hyaluronic acid.”

It’s important to offer a quick disclaimer: The benefits of oral fulvic acid (i.e. brain health and heightened energy levels) are going to differ from topical fulvic acid (known for nutrient absorption, among other things). Now that we have that out of the way, keep reading for everything to know about fulvic acid for skincare, its overall health benefits, and whether there are adverse effects.

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What Is Fulvic Acid?

According to the PAULA’S CHOICE website, fulvic acid has attracted the skincare community, thanks to “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.”

What Are the Benefits of Fulvic Acid?

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Because of its hydrating properties and ability to hold water more effectively, Elston says the ingredient is great for inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea or eczema.

2. Supports Skin Barrier

According to the Clinikally blog, fulvic acid helps support the skin's natural barrier function. “A strong skin barrier is required for defense against outside aggressors, maintaining moisture balance, and avoiding skin problems,” the blog explains.

3. Neutralizes Skin Damage Thanks To Antioxidants

“Fulvic acid aids in the removal of free radicals from the skin,” the Clinikally blog says. “This defense lessens oxidative stress, which can cause fine lines and wrinkles and early aging.”

4. Helps The Skin Absorb Products Better

According to the PAULA’S CHOICE website, “Cosmetic 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.”

What Side Effects Can Be Expected From Fulvic Acid?

Our research tells us that when used topically, naturally occurring fulvic acid should serve as a nourishing ingredient similarly to hyaluronic acid. Side effects from regular use aren’t common, but always check with a doctor before incorporating a new ingredient into your routine. Additionally, effects can differ from oral consumption, so look into that separately if you decide to take fulvic acid supplements or tinctures.

How To Incorporate Fulvic Acid Into Your Skincare Routine

Fulvic acid can be consumed orally via tinctures and supplements, or topically, through products like cleanser (the THE INKEY LIST Fulvic Acid Brightening Cleanser is a great way to incorporate the ingredient on a budget), haircare (the Act+Acre Fulvic Acid Volumizing Dry Shampoo Powder For Oily Scalp targets grease), and multipurpose spray (the Vital Earth Minerals Fulvic Mineral Mist is formulated for the hair, face, and body to offer hydration and a refresh).

Commonly Asked Questions About Fulvic Acid

How does fulvic acid brighten skin?

According to the Clinikally blog, thanks to fulvic acid’s ability to reduce the appearance of age spots, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation, “you can achieve a brighter and more even skin tone.”

Is fulvic acid for acne?

Elston recommends fulvic acid for those with combination skin, and potentially inflammatory acne, further explaining, “It’s not going to get rid of your acne. It’s not an acne treatment—however, it will help calm down any sort of aggravation with your acne. So if you have inflamed, irritated, red acne, this is going to be a great one for that.”

How often should I use fulvic acid?

While it’s always recommended to do a patch test or consult a doctor before trying something new (especially on sensitive skin), Medical News Today says, “As it is a natural substance, fulvic acid may also be a suitable alternative for long-term, day-to-day use” to treat inflammatory skin conditions.

Is fulvic acid safe?

While Elston points out that fulvic acid for skin may not necessarily benefit everyone, it’s not known for harming people. In fact, it pretty much primarily targets sensitive skin. She also described it as nourishing, the way hyaluronic acid is to our skin. While we certainly can’t speak for everyone’s individual skin types, if fulvic acid is anything like HA, you’re likely in the clear.

According to the PAULA’S CHOICE website, the ingredient is known for soothing and anti-aging, with especially strong benefits for acne-prone skin.

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