SkinCeuticals just dropped a new C E Ferulic formula and the internet is having a meltdown. I’ve been slathering the old one on my face for six years, so I needed to know — did they fix it or ruin it?
The pH is different. That’s the first thing I noticed. The old formula was a holy terror if you had any active breakouts — this one feels less like acid on a paper cut.
It’s $182 for 30ml of 15% vitamin C, 1% ferulic acid, and 1% vitamin E. The claim? Brighter skin in 3 days. I call bullshit on that timeline, but I tested it anyway.
New pH Balance
Sits at 2.5 now — smoother on compromised skin, but I worry it’s less potent on deep hyperpigmentation.
Oxidation Window
Stays clear for 5 months vs the old one’s 3. That’s a real win — no more orange juice face by August.
Absorption Speed
Dries down in 40 seconds flat. The old formula sat tacky for a full minute.
Photo: Content Pixie / Unsplash
Same three heroes, new ratios. The ferulic acid got bumped up to stabilize the vitamin C better — that’s why it oxidizes slower. Smart move, even if it feels like a marketing shift more than a science one.
- L-Ascorbic Acid (15%): The actual brightener — fades spots and boosts collagen production
- Ferulic Acid (1%): Doubles the C’s effectiveness and fights free radicals
- Vitamin E (1%): Calms the sting and locks in moisture
- Propanediol: New addition — makes it less sticky, but can tingle on broken skin
Photo: ibnu ihza / Unsplash
Texture is thinner — almost like water with a slip. It sinks in fast, no filmy residue. My skin felt tight for the first three days, like it was pulling. That went away by day 5.
By day 12, my sunspots looked less angry but not gone. What surprised me? No breakouts. The old formula gave me tiny whiteheads on my chin every single time. This one? Clean. That alone might convert me.
Photo: yunona uritsky / Unsplash
My forehead lines look softer and my skin has that lit-from-within thing after 3 weeks. But the dark spot on my cheek? Barely moved. So it’s good, not miraculous.
Photo: El S / Unsplash
It’s gentler, cleaner, and oxidizes slower — but it lost a little of that kick-ass punch the original had. If you’re new to vitamin C, buy it. If you’re a diehard, you’ll still love it — you’ll just miss the sting.