We Tried SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic—And We Have Thoughts

We put SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Let's put it this way: SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic isn't just a vitamin C serum, it is the vitamin C serum. Since it launched in 2005, dermatologists and beauty editors alike have sworn that its formula—which features vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid—is the stuff skin dreams are made of. TL;DR: the hype is real.

But does it actually live up to its reputation? To see for ourselves, we tested it for three weeks, evaluating its effects both daily and over time. We also consulted with board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Dendy Engelman to get her take on the cult-favorite serum. Read on to find out if the pricey antioxidant concoction was the magic formula our skin needed.

About the Ingredients: Potent as it gets

SkinCeuticals lists three ingredients as key players in this serum: 15% L-ascorbic acid, a highly potent form of pure vitamin C that neutralizes free radicals, protects against oxidative stress, and provides visible anti-aging benefits; 1% alpha-tocopherol, the pure form of vitamin E that works together with vitamin C to neutralize free radicals and replenish the skin’s lipids; and 0.5% ferulic acid, a plant-based antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and enhances the antioxidant benefits and stability of vitamins C and E. From a dermatologist's perspective, Engelman explains that the unique blend of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid work synergistically to protect the skin from oxidative stress, prevent signs of aging and brighten and fortify the skin barrier. "These three ingredients are known to work very well together!," she says. "Ferulic acid also helps stabilize vitamins C and E."

While these ingredients are spread out on the ingredient list, the brand lists the concentration of each—and even though some are in small concentrations, these ingredients are potent! However, C E Ferulic is not considered clean by Byrdie’s standards due to its inclusion of triethanolamine. 

About the Formula: Scientifically proven to work

Over the years, SkinCeuticals has funded multiple studies that prove C E Ferulic’s potency. For example, in 2008, a double-blind, peer-reviewed study in The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that the product provided the skin with "significant and meaningful photoprotection." Additionally, the brand claims that using C E Ferulic immediately after a laser session can decrease patient downtime by up to two days.

According to Engelman, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is suitable for all skin types. "Thanks to the well-balanced formulation and soothing vitamin E, it is usually well-tolerated. However, discontinue use if you do notice irritation or discomfort after using it," she explains. That said, we did notice a slight tingling sensation from time to time, but we had no issues applying it every morning. Take note, though, that if you have super sensitive skin, there's a chance you might not be able to tolerate it daily.

Interactions: Don’t mix with other acids & pay attention to dates

If you’re going to use vitamin C daily, you should avoid using it with certain ingredients that can destabilize it or cause irritation. Engelman explains that vitamin C pairs very well with vitamin E and ferulic acid, which amplifies each other's brightening and anti-aging benefits. "Vitamin C should not be used at the same time as retinol, as these ingredients are too strong together and can cause irritation," she warns. Avoid using vitamin C with copper peptides, and alpha-hydroxy acids, too, as these can destabilize the ingredient, thus making it ineffective.

Vitamin C in general is very photosensitive, and its shelf life is heavily impacted by exposure to light, which is why vitamin C products are often packaged in tinted or opaque bottles. Engelman explains that even when a bottle is designed to protect vitamin C from light exposure—like this one, which is packaged in a dark brown bottle—storing it in a cool, dark place is a great idea. Doing so actually helps keep the formula from oxidizing (aka turning dark and becoming less effective). Unopened, a skincare product containing vitamin C will remain “fresh” for up to 18 months. After opening a vitamin C skincare product, it will remain efficacious for about three to six months. 

How to Apply: The hot dog rumors are true

There’s a reason that beauty editors say this product smells like hot dog water—it really does. Yes, it smells quite funky, but (we promise) it’s not horrible! The scent subsides pretty quickly after it absorbs, but following this product with a nice-smelling serum or moisturizer also helps.

C E Ferulic applies as a very light but slightly sticky serum. It leaves behind a bit of residue as it dries, though it doesn’t feel heavy. Once the product is fully absorbed and worn under other products, the stickiness subsides. When we applied it on days when our skin felt drier than normal, we noticed a slight tingling sensation, though it didn’t result in any irritation or an allergic reaction.

The Results: A visibly smoother, brighter complexion

We can’t stress enough how much we love this product. Our skin was visibly smoother, plumper, and brighter by the end of our three-week testing period. While we didn’t notice any immediate results on the first day of use, we began to notice changes in our skin’s texture by day three—it felt smoother and significantly more hydrated.

What really sold us on this product is how it transformed skin texture. It’s the smoothest and plumpest it’s ever been, and the dryness and dullness we battled all winter long has completely vanished.

The Value: Worth the investment

C E Ferulic is definitely expensive, ringing in at $182 per fluid ounce, but a little goes a long way (only about 4-5 drops are needed per application). In our opinion, it’s worth the price—it really delivers results. Engelman agrees, explaining that she personally loves and often recommends SkinCeuticals' CE Ferulic serum. "It is a potent yet non-irritating formula that delivers concentrated antioxidant benefits, and the results are clinically supported," she adds.

Similar Products: You've got options

The Nue Co. Topical C ($55): The Nue Co.’s Topical C, which is a powder form of L-ascorbic acid, features ferulic acid, tapioca starch, colloidal oatmeal, and aloe vera. Because it’s in powder form, it doesn’t activate until you dissolve it into your favorite serum or moisturizer, which means it won’t oxidize over time and has a much longer shelf life.

Sunday Riley C.E.O Vitamin C Brightening Serum ($85): This vitamin C serum is a splurge compared to Glow Recipe’s, but it’s made with 15 percent vitamin C and targets dark spots and signs of aging. 

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum with Salicylic Acid ($47): For a vitamin C serum that does more than brighten and target dark spots, La Roche Posay’s Pure Vitamin C Face Serum is a great option. It’s formulated with salicylic acid, which helps promote clear skin, and hyaluronic acid, which helps with hydration.