BEAUTY

A Leading Skin Expert Explains The Science Behind This Cult, Celebrity-Approved Serum

The beauty product that does exactly what it promises

It’s the product spoken about in hushed tones by beauty editors. It regularly appears on dermatologist’s “essential” lists. It can be spotted sitting conspicuously in every influencer’s beauty shelfie.

Lauded for its anti-ageing, firming and brightening properties, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is considered the Holy Grail of serums. Hoarded by die-hard fans and skin experts alike, it’s also one of the few beauty products considered worthy of its pricetag.

To find out why this serum is so deserving of its cult status, we spoke with Dr Naomi, Cosmetic Physician and founder of the Manse Clinic in Sydney, about the science behind the product, and how to incorporate it into your routine.

It contains a potent, unrivalled blend of antioxidants

Antioxidants play a vital role in anti-ageing. As explained by Manse, “They protect our skin by reducing the production of free radicals, which can damage skin cells. They are anti-inflammatory, skin firming, repair sun damage, and can help scars and wrinkles.”

Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum contains antioxidants in droves: in fact, it’s formulated with 15 per cent L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), 1 per cent vitamin E and 0.5 per cent ferulic acid for advanced environmental protection and visible anti-ageing benefits.

In particular, vitamin C is known for its ability to neutralise free radicals caused by exposure to UVA/UVB and ozone pollution, effectively improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Ferulic acid is the formula’s MVP

According to Manse, the magic of the formula lies in the addition of ferulic acid, “which is an antioxidant that works to boost the effects of other antioxidants,” says Manse. “It also helps to improve the overall integrity and health of the skin by reducing wrinkles, fine lines and spots.”

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum

It contains the smartest percentage of vitamin C on the market

With a whopping 15 per cent vitamin C, Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum hits the sweet spot when it comes to skin brightening. “I would consider 10 per cent vitamin C and above high potency,” says Manse. “There’s a big variety of C percentages in products.” The general rule of thumb is that anything between 10-20 per cent is ideal: it’s enough to have a significant effect, but not enough to irritate the skin. 

The benefits last for days

Once C E Ferulic is absorbed, it can’t be washed or rubbed off, according to Manse. “In fact, it protects your complexion for up to four days after application,” she says. 

It’s scientifically proven

In a world that seemingly favours fiction over fact, it’s comforting to know SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is scientifically proven. In fact, SkinCeuticals is the only brand to formulate antioxidants according to the following parameters required for effective delivery of vitamin C to skin: 1) pure l-ascorbic acid (vitamin C); 2) an acidic pH within the 2.0-3.5 pH range and; 3) a concentration between 10-20 per cent.

It’s easily integrated into a skincare routine

Ideal for normal and dry skin types, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is lightweight and easily absorbed, and should be applied once a day in the morning. “C E Ferulic should be used after cleansing and toning and before other anti-ageing products, moisturiser and sunscreen etc,” says Manse. 

Skinceuticals has a patent on the formula

Try as they might, no other brand has been able to replicate C E Ferulic Serum. And while they say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, in this case, there really is only one star.

Brought to you by SkinCeuticals

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