I've interviewed enough dermatologists to know better than to question the hype behind the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum. It wasn't out of a sheer coincidence that whenever I'd ask anything remotely related to an effective skincare routine, their answers would always steer toward this antioxidant-rich formula. Naturally, I was intrigued.
For the uninitiated, Skinceuticals' C E Ferulic is often hailed as the best vitamin C serum, featuring a blend of ferulic acid, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), and vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) to effectively brighten and hydrate the skin. As well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Skincare sleuths will know that this science-backed serum isn't particularly new. But despite having been around since 2005, C E Ferulic still remains a not-so-secret weapon in the arsenal of most dermatologists. Why is that, you ask? That's exactly what I've investigated, having been personally reviewing the serum for the past five months as part of my daily skincare regimen. I've also taken the time to quiz award-winning cosmetic doctor Ana Mansouri on what is it exactly that makes C E Ferulic so special. Here's everything you need to know.
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SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic review: at a glance
- Pros: Delivers lasting hydration, visibly brightens and helps achieve an even skin tone.
- Cons: It's very expensive.
- Price: £165.
- Our verdict: C E Ferulic is by far the best face serum I've tried and I can see why it comes recommended by so many dermatologists. Not only did it help brighten and soothe my complexion but over long term use, it also helped me achieve that “lit-from-within” glow. It's lightweight and non-greasy, yet it still manages to help my skin stay nice and hydrated all day long.
Meet the reviewer: Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor
Throughout my skincare journey, I've always struggled to find suitable formulas that would work for my dry and sensitive skin. My mild rosacea also never pairs well with any irritants or highly-concentrated actives, so when it came down to finding a quality vitamin C serum, it was quite an exhausting process. That is, until I got my hands on the C E Ferulic, which performed as though it was made for my exact skin type.
- Skin type: dry and sensitive.
- Skin concerns: acne scars and rosacea.
- Testing period: 5 months.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic review: product deep-dive
According to Dr Ana Mansouri, “vitamin C is a very delicate and unstable molecule,” but the reason C E Ferulic is such a unique formula is because “it ensures maximum bio availability so that vitamin C is actually effective on the skin.” Dr Mansouri also shares that C E Ferulic is formulated with a lower level of pH to maximise the benefits of vitamin C, as well as a pure 15% concentration of L-ascorbic acid combined with synergistic antioxidants.
Because of the added vitamin E for gentle hydration, Dr Mansouri suggests that this facial serum “is best suited for dry, sensitive and mature skin types.” Elsewhere, ferulic acid is also supercharged with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, meaning it may help reduce redness and soothe the skin.
While doing my research, I've also learnt that the C E Ferulic helps reinforce the skin's natural protection against environmental aggressors by neutralising free radicals on the upper layer of the skin.
To help prevent oxidation, Dr Mansouri recommends trying to “avoid oxygen exposure by keeping the serum in dark surroundings” whenever you're not using it.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic review: GLAMOUR road test
As someone who's a firm believer that quality skincare doesn't have to come with a premium price tag, I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical. After all, it would take some serious convincing in order for me to recommend splurging well over £100 on a 30ml bottle.
Still, considering just how well-respected SkinCeuticals is in the skincare world (courtesy of the brand's science-backed formulas) and the sheer popularity of the C E Ferulic serum, I was determined to go into this review with a positive mindset.
Having started testing it in late July, I used it all through the rest of the summer and autumn until now. And in my experience, there's no better way to test a skincare product to its full potential than to see how it fares through the change of the seasons – when our skin is at its most vulnerable state.
Since my skin is on the sensitive side, I started gently introducing it to my skincare regimen by applying it twice a week and slowly working my way up to using it daily. Shortly after cleansing and using a toner, I applied C E Ferulic in mornings, before wrapping up my routine with a nourishing moisturiser and my go-to sunscreen.
From the get-go, it felt super hydrating on the skin, and left my complexion plump and glowy immediately after applying. I appreciated that unlike other vitamin C serums I've tried before, this formula didn't feel too greasy on the skin and didn't result in any pilling afterwards.
I started seeing results about four weeks into the testing process, having noticed that my skin looked visibly brighter and calmer, with practically no redness in sight. My dark spots faded much faster than they normally would have and my overall skin tone looked a lot more even. So much so that I finally started embracing my natural skin and ditching foundation for a skin tint because I no longer needed the coverage.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic review: the final verdict
Over the course of my career as a beauty journalist, I've reviewed enough face serums to know a thing or two about what makes a formula actually effective. I'm also not one to exaggerate, but having used the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for months and having witnessed the benefits first-hand, I don't think my skincare routine will ever be the same without it.
My skin has gotten progressively glowier and more hydrated, my acne scars and dark spots faded to the extent that I can barely even see them and my overall skin tone looks much more even. Long story short, I can see why it's received so much praise from dermatologists and beauty editors alike. So if you're someone who, like me, has dry, sensitive or mature skin and has been looking to invest in a luxury serum that will genuinely make a difference, trust me when I tell you that it doesn't get better than C E Ferulic. Thank me later.
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