SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic vs Phloretin CF: Which Antioxidant Serum Is Right for You?

Skin care can get confusing — especially when there’s so many types of serums that seem to do similar things. Take the SkinCeuticals vitamin C serums: C E Ferulic and Phloretin CF. Both are antioxidant serums that often get mixed up due to their similar bottles, textures and ingredients, but there are major differences between the two. We spoke with board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Kim Nichols, M.D., to find out what sets them apart and which one might work better for your skin type and needs. 

What Is the Difference Between C E Ferulic and Phloretin CF?

According to Dr. Nichols, the main difference between these serums is the potency and antioxidants. “Both are excellent choices,” she says, “but Phloretin CF is gentle enough for acne-prone patients, while C E Ferulic is more effective for dull skin and contains anti-aging properties.” Typically, this means that if you fall into the normal-to-dry category, most of the time, you’re going to want to incorporate C E Ferulic into your routine. If you’re more oily, you’ll want to try Phloretin CF.

You may also want to incorporate both products into your routine depending on the season. “I recommend that my patients reassess their skin and their skin-care regimen every season,” says Dr. Nichols. “If your skin is more oily and prone to breakouts during a particular time of year, switch to Phloretin CF instead of using C E Ferulic.”

Which One Is More Hydrating?

Because Phloretin CF caters to oily skin, it is also the less hydrating of the two. It does not contain glycerin either, a key humectant that is present in the C E Ferulic formula. Phloretin CF might feel drying in comparison to C E Ferulic.

What About the Ingredients?

C E Ferulic, which has 15% l-ascorbic acid in addition to 0.5% ferulic acid and 1% vitamin E, has a higher concentration of vitamin C in its formula than Phloretin CF. “The combination enhances protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to atmospheric aging,” says Dr. Nichols. On the flip side, Phloretin CF contains 10% l-ascorbic acid, 2% phloretin and 0.5% ferulic acid. Phloretin CF also does not contain vitamin E, which is a potent anti-aging ingredient.

Smell and Texture

In terms of texture and smell, both products are somewhat similar. They have a yellow-orange color, feel  gentle but tacky when applied and may darken in color when exposed to sunlight. Like many antioxidant serums, both products are also known to have potent scents.

How to Incorporate C E Ferulic or Phloretin CF Into Your Routine

When you’ve narrowed down which serum best fits for your skin type, it’s relatively easy to incorporate either into your routine. “After cleansing your face, apply 3-5 drops of your antioxidant on the top of your hand,” says Dr. Nichols. “Then, use your finger to apply it evenly on your face, neck and chest.” It’s also important to note that after your antioxidant serums, you must apply sunscreen overtop for UVA/UVB protection.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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