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SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Review: What You Need to Know
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An in-depth exploration of the popular SkinCeuticals serum and what it did for my skin.
Since its launch in 2005, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum has become somewhat of a household name. Some people swear by this skincare formula to make their skin look brighter, clearer, and younger without causing irritation or other unpleasant side effects.
I decided to try it out myself to see if I got the same results as hundreds of skincare enthusiasts online. Keep reading as I share my thoughts after using the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum for a month, including what I liked and didn’t like and how the ingredients work.
What Is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic?
- Protects skin from environmental damage
- Prevents harmful free radical damage
- Visibly improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
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Works well beneath makeup
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Brightens the skin and lightens dark spots
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Smoothes skin texture
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It lasts a long time, as a little goes a long way
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Expensive for a small bottle (30ml)
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Unpleasant smell
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Possible risk of irritation to sensitive skin
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is a powerful antioxidant serum made purposefully to neutralize free radicals, protect against skin damage, and tackle the visible signs of aging. These signs include various facial wrinkles and fine lines and the loss of elasticity that leaves the skin without its usual bounce.
The C E Ferulic serum features a synergistic antioxidant combination of 3 hero ingredients: 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). Together, they work hard to counter the existing and future damage to the skin, making way for a brighter, glowy, more youthful-looking complexion.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is made for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types. Although anyone can use it, it is an anti-aging serum with antioxidant protective benefits that help to combat damaging free radicals that trigger oxidative stress, resulting in visible changes to the skin.
It’s ideal for those who want to safeguard their skin from environmental stressors that accelerate the aging process. For those with existing signs of aging, the potent serum works hard to tackle them by reducing their appearance, tightening the skin, and brightening the complexion.
⭐ Rating |
4.6
|
🧪 Key ingredients |
L-ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, ferulic acid |
👍 Best for |
Dry, normal, and sensitive skin |
❌ Shouldn’t be used with |
Retinols, copper peptides, alpha-hydroxy acids |
😶🌫️ How to use it? |
Apply it once a day |
💰Price |
$182 |
How I Started Out With SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
First things first, it was quite an investment – the serum costs $182 – but I was determined to see what all the fuss was about.
As the label instructs, I used the serum daily, applying 4–5 drops to my freshly-cleansed face, neck, and chest every morning. I’d wait for it to absorb before following with my usual moisturizer and sunscreen. I skipped wearing makeup most days to ensure I could witness changes to my naked skin.
The smell caught my attention after opening the packaging and removing the lid. I’d heard people describe the formula as “hotdog smelling,” and I’m afraid I must agree. However, I found that the smell disappeared after a few minutes as I continued my routine.
Texture-wise, it’s very light and didn’t feel heavy on my skin or like it was clogging my pores. There were some days when I found a slight tingling sensation upon application, which quickly subsided. I think this was when my skin was feeling a little more dry and vulnerable.
Otherwise, it felt gentle. However, I can imagine why it might irritate some people with overly dry or sensitive skin, as I’ve discovered from customer reviews. But, like anything, you never know how your skin will respond to a product until you try it.
What I Liked About SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
After 4 weeks of consistent use, my skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and has a lovely glow it didn’t have before. I imagine these initial benefits will enhance with longer use, and I always prefer to give a product at least 2 months before making a final verdict, but I’m very pleased for now. Here are the main benefits I experienced while using this serum.
#1 It worked well under my makeup
Applying this serum on the days I want to wear makeup isn’t a problem. If anything, it preps my skin, creating a smoother, more even base for makeup application while adding a slight glow beneath my foundation. It doesn’t have a greasy consistency like many other serums.
#2 My dark spots became lighter
The makers claim it brightens the skin’s complexion – a promise I was most excited about. I noticed improvements in my skin tone: my dark spots and acne scarring became less visible, and my overall face looked more glowy.
#3 My skin texture became smoother
The change in my skin texture was something I didn’t expect. It ultimately improved the overall appearance of my skin by making it clearer, smoother, and more even-looking.
#4 A little goes a long way
The great thing about this serum is that it lasts a while despite being just 30ml. A small dose of 4–5 drops daily goes a long way, covering the face, neck, and chest. Some users online even report that when used daily, a bottle of the serum lasts them 3–4 months.
Keep in mind that the website states that once opened, you should use the serum within 3–6 months. This ensures you only use it while the ingredients remain effective.
What I Didn’t Like
I knew the C E Ferulic serum wouldn’t be perfect, and I was mentally preparing for something to go wrong. However, I was pleasantly surprised to finish trialing this serum with only 2 complaints.
#1 The price point
Many people are willing to pay good money for an anti-aging serum that delivers results. However, visible anti-aging benefits don’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. This product is expensive for a small bottle, especially considering it is designed for daily use.
It’s something only some can buy repeatedly as part of a daily skincare regimen. For me, this serum is a treat and not necessarily a product I will purchase long-term. The good news, however, is that it does last a while, offering the chance to save for your next batch.
#2 Weird smell
The other problem with C E Ferulic is the unpleasant smell. Although it’s difficult to describe, it does have a bit of a meaty odor. It can be unpleasant for some, as it’s not what you’d typically expect from an expensive serum that you’re going to smother your face with.
I had to remind myself this is not your average vitamin C serum. If you can get past the smell, you can enjoy the many perks it offers skin both in the short and long term.
What Are the Main Ingredients of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic?
The serum works in a specific way to deliver noticeable results. Ultimately, it relies on 3 active ingredients – ferulic acid and vitamins C and E. These ingredients each have their qualities and contributions, but together, they become a powerful force.
Let’s take a closer look at how these ingredients work to give you dreamy skin.
Ferulic acid
Ferulic acid is a plant-based antioxidant that’s often present in anti-aging skincare formulas, with good reason. It’s known to reduce signs of photoaging, in other words, the premature aging of the skin from sun exposure, that flaws the skin and induces early wrinkle formation.
Its potent properties provide environmental protection and help to ward off free radicals generated by various stressors, such as sunlight and air pollution. And while it does all of this independently, studies show that ferulic acid works even better when paired with vitamins C and E.
Vitamin C
The recipe includes L-ascorbic acid, which is a highly potent form of vitamin C. It neutralizes free radicals and fights against oxidative stress – factors that significantly affect the skin’s aging process.
This antioxidant is also responsible for healthy collagen production. Collagen naturally declines as you age, leaving the skin thinner, more fragile, less elastic, and more prone to wrinkles. Applying vitamin C topically can further contribute to its anti-aging effects.
Vitamin E
The alpha-tocopherol is vitamin E in its pure form. Science tells us that vitamin E has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, firming, photoprotective, and anti-aging properties. It, too, neutralizes free radicals to protect the skin from environmental damage.
A Word From a Dermatologist
Implementing an effective skincare regimen is one way of handling aging skin. Choose trustworthy products that target mature skin specifically or those that fight the aging process. You can also select formulas made especially for your skin type.
Some of the best anti-aging ingredients to look out for include L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C), hyaluronic acid, retinol, and collagen. These ingredients protect the skin from the inside out to keep it free from future aging signs or to improve any existing ones.
Outside of skincare, vital measures include limiting your exposure to the sun, wearing sunscreen, eating healthy foods, drinking water daily, maintaining a sleep routine, and quitting smoking.
Price of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
It costs $182 to purchase a 30ml bottle of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic from the official SkinCeuticals website. You can receive 5% off plus complimentary shipping if you select the auto-replenish option, which automatically ships the product to you every 1–6 months.
Comparison Table
Works well beneath makeup
Brightens the skin and lightens dark spots
Smoothes skin texture
It lasts a long time, as a little goes a long way
Suitable for all skin types
Improves uneven skin tone
Improves skin texture
Contains powerful antioxidants
Suitable for all skin types
Fragrance-free
Diminished appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
More radiant and luminous skin
Adds hydration
Smoothes skin and evens skin tone
Vegan and cruelty-free
Brightens uneven skin tone`
Supports a more radiant complexion
Quick-absorbing formula
You can mix it with your moisturizer or serum
15% off when you subscribe
Cruelty-free
Doesn’t last very long if using it morning and night
Over $100 for a 30ml bottle
Some users experienced dryness and flaky skin
Strong unpleasant smell
May cause dryness, redness, and irritation in some people
Noticeable metallic-like smell
FAQs
According to the brand and based on their clinical studies, significant results can be seen after 12 weeks of using C E Ferulic. Nevertheless, there’s no telling for sure how a particular skincare product will work for you, as everybody’s skin is unique.
You can purchase SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic from the official SkinCeuticals website. It’s also available from other websites, including Amazon. Ensure you only buy this product from a legitimate and trustworthy source to avoid receiving counterfeit.
You should use C E Ferulic once a day in the morning. Apply 4–5 drops to dry or damp skin on the face and neck. This will help protect the skin from various environmental aggressors you encounter throughout the day, such as car fumes and cigarette smoke.
How I Tested
The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic had to match my expectations, personal preferences, and particular skin type. But to bring you my final verdict, I assessed the serum based on quality, effectiveness, price, and brand reputation.
Quality 9/10
C E Ferulic is a high-quality vitamin C serum that delivers advanced environmental protection for maintaining healthy skin. The unique combination is backed by science, making it stand out against many other serums that fail to deliver the same powerful results.
Effectiveness 9/10
The key ingredients make it an effective formula that targets the visible signs of aging to create a brighter and more youthful-looking appearance, primarily due to its antioxidant benefits.
It’s also effective for many people since it’s suitable for all skin types – dry, normal, sensitive, and combination skin included.
Price 7/10
Again, the price lets it down slightly. It is expensive, and there are cheaper vitamin C serums available. However, you can’t always expect the same quality and potency of active ingredients in other serums. It depends on how much you’re happy to pay for a product that does what it claims.
Brand reputation 9/10
SkinCeuticals has a strong brand reputation. The US company believes in the importance of skin health and focuses on advanced skincare formulations backed by scientific research.
One problem to address, however, is customer service. Some customers report problems with shipping, refunds, and canceling subscriptions. With this in mind, remember to read the terms and conditions carefully before placing your order to avoid potential issues.
The Final Verdict
So, would I buy SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic again? I would definitely buy it again, but it would be more of a treat than a staple in my skincare routine. While my skin became smoother and brighter, it is definitely a luxury serum.
In conclusion, despite the weird smell and the high price tag, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is one of the most stable vitamin C serums on the market today. If you’re looking for a luxurious addition to your skincare routine that will help your skin look brighter and firmer, this is definitely a product to consider.
