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 different types of serums that seem to do similar things. Take the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic and Phloretin CF serums, for example. Both are antioxidant serums that often get mixed up due to their similar bottles, textures, ingredients and names, but there are major differences between the two.  We spoke with SkinCeuticals Consulting Dermatologist Kim Nichols, M.D., to find out what sets them apart and which one might work better for your skin type and needs. Read on to see if your routine calls for C E Ferulic, Phloretin CF or — plot twist — both.

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 science behind the antioxidants in them. “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, and if you’re more oily, you’ll want to try Phloretin CF.

Depending on the Season You May Want to Use Both

For those of us, however, who are more prone to oily skin for only half the year, say during season changes or summertime, we might want to stock up on your Phloretin CF for those extra dewy months and switch over to C E Ferulic when the temperatures dip. “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 of Phloretin CF’s ability to cater to oily skin, it is also the less hydrating of the two. It does not contain glycerin — a key humectant that is present in the C E Ferulic formula. Once applied, Phloretin CF might feel drying in comparison to C E Ferulic, which is just about the last thing you want if you already have a complexion that’s on the drier side.

What About the Ingredients?

When it comes to Vitamin C, C E Ferulic beats Phloretin CF hands-down, with a whopping 15% of l-ascorbic acid — in addition to 0.5% ferulic acid and 1% vitamin E. “The combination enhances protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to atmospheric aging,” Dr. Nichols adds. On the flip side, Phloretin CF contains 10% l-ascorbic acid, 2% phloretin and also 0.5% ferulic acid. Phloretin CF also does not contain vitamin E, which is a potent anti-aging ingredient.

Smell and Texture

As far as the texture and smell goes, both are somewhat similar in appearance, with a yellow-orange color. They both 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 (or if both suit you!), 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.

Read More:

Why You Shouldn’t Layer Vitamin C and Retinol

How to Treat Ruddy Skin

Is There Such a Thing As Too Much Face Mist?