SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic vs Phloretin CF: Which Skinceuticals Vitamin C Serum Is Right For You?

SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Antioxidant Serum, which was released in 2005, has been awarded countless awards and has a serious cult following, for good reason: it’s clinically proven to reduce environmental damage, and improve signs of aging like wrinkles, sagging skin, and photodamage.

SkinCeuticals has always been a pioneer in the antioxidant serum field: it launched the first of its Vitamin C Serums, Serum 10 and Serum 15, in 1997. Now, SkinCeuticals has an impressive lineup of Vitamin C Serums: CE Ferulic, Phloretin CF, Serum 10, C+AHA, and Silymarin CF. So how do you decide which SkinCeuticals Vitamin C Serum is right for you? We’re here to help! We’ll break down the key differences between two of SkinCeuticals’ most popular serums: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic vs Phloretin CF.

What’s The Difference Between CE Ferulic and Phloretin CF?

As skincare science becomes more complex, it's challenging to determine which steps and products work best together. Let’s first look at the similarities between these two products: both SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic and Phloretin CF are antioxidant serums with similar ingredients and textures. Both serums play crucial roles in any skincare regimen aimed at improving discoloration. These daily topical antioxidants are essential for getting your skin back to a healthy, even-toned appearance.

SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is ideal for fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness, and brightening in normal, dry, and sensitive skin. It contains vitamin E along with vitamin C and ferulic acid, offering a higher concentration of vitamin C than Phloretin CF (15% vs 10%) and providing enhanced protection against environmental damage and aging. 1% Alpha-Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and Hyaluronic Acid provide moisture to dry and aging skin, and help to neutralize free radicals.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF is better suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types dealing with discoloration and visible signs of aging. It also contains vitamin C (at a lower concentration than CE Ferulic) and ferulic acid, but Phloretin CF includes phloretin, a natural antioxidant derived from apples and pears that enhances other antioxidants, improves uneven skin tone, and minimizes sun damage. Phloretin CF, designed for oily skin, lacks hyaluronic acid, making it less hydrating and more suitable for combination to oily skin types.

Which Serum Should I Use, CE Ferulic or Phloretin CF?

Dermatologists frequently recommend both SkinCeuticals antioxidant serums, so if you’re looking for a solid Vitamin C/antioxidant serum, you can’t go wrong with either one. However, it may be a good idea to select a serum based on your skin needs. We advise using Phloretin CF for oil-prone skin and C E Ferulic for normal to dry skin.

The main difference between the serums lies in their potency and antioxidants; Phloretin CF is gentle enough for acne-prone patients, while CE Ferulic is more effective for dry, mature skin and has anti-aging properties. Thus, oily skin types benefit more from Phloretin CF, while normal-to-dry skin types should incorporate CE Ferulic. If your concerns are more about anti-aging and brightening, we suggest trying both serums to see which works best and reassessing your results periodically, especially as skin can change with the seasons.

How to Apply SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic or Phloretin CF

Step 1: Cleanse Your Face

Begin your routine with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. This ensures that your skin is free of impurities and ready to absorb the serum. Gently pat your face, neck, and chest dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, which can irritate the skin.

Step 2: Gently Apply Serum

Apply three to five drops of your chosen serum (C E Ferulic or Phloretin CF) onto the top of your hand. This method allows for easy access and prevents overuse of the product. Use your fingertips to evenly distribute the serum across your face. Make sure to cover all areas, including your forehead, cheeks, and chin.

Step 3: Continue with Your Routine

After the serum absorbs, complete your skincare routine with any additional moisturizers or treatments as needed. Applying the serum first allows its potent ingredients to work effectively before sealing everything in with a moisturizer.

Step 4: Apply Sunscreen (Daytime)

Follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This step is crucial as the antioxidants in the serum work best with UV protection, enhancing their benefits and protecting your skin from further damage.

By following these steps, you can effectively incorporate SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic or Phloretin CF into your daily skincare routine, maximizing their benefits for healthier, more radiant skin.