As much as I adore the summer months (or at least, what feels like the summer months right now) my skin is never at its best. I put the change in my complexion down to the change in my habits. I'm one of many who find their skin fluctuates during the hotter weather. There’s humidity of course, but then there's also all the good stuff like BBQs and booze to contend with. While I'll never regret an afternoon spent in a balmy pub garden, these lifestyle changes wreak havoc when it comes to the normal function of our skin. Rocketing serum production means an increase in blocked pores and a duller complexion that lacks radiance. And, despite my attempts to eat healthier and up my water consumption, sometimes it takes the big guns to bring back the glow.
Thankfully, I’ve become well versed in the ultimate solution. If you’re not yet acquainted with SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum, then allow me to introduce you to a complexion game-changer. For past 20 years it's been a beauty editor favourite earning its rightful place in the cult classic beauty hall of fame. Celebrities, too, can't get enough of the stuff. Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Sienna Miller are all fans, having cited it as must haves in their beauty routine.
And skin experts the world over are in agreement, too. Renowned dermatologist Dr. Emma Craythorne has even said, 'When it comes to antioxidants, SkinCeuticals is the only brand that I recommend,' proving its potency.
What does the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum do?
According to SkinCeuticals, the C E Ferulic Serum is 'designed to offer advanced protection against environmental aggressors.' This is thanks to a trio of hero ingredients - vitamins C, E and ferulic acid. The results? An antioxidant rich serum that protects against free radicals (from sun exposure and pollution) and promotes a brighter, more evenly-toned complexion while helping to minimise fine lines and wrinkles. While it's an at home staple, Dr Ariel Haus, a leading Harley street dermatologist, has also cited C E Ferulic's ability to improve skin texture and tone post in clinic laser treatment. 'It's really quite remarkable,' he says. 'Typically, lasers may have meant considerable downtime, with no sun exposure whatsoever. But as the UK participant on a global skincare study I've seen how C E Ferulic has maximised results and minimised this down time.'
How to use the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum?
Use it once and your skin won’t be transformed to Sienna Miller levels of radiance, but use it twice and there’s a high chance you’ll see a marked difference in tone, texture and luminosity. At £165 it's expensive, granted, but I’ve been applying a mere pea-sized amount over freshly cleansed skin each morning and can confirm a little goes a long way. I’ll press it into my skin, and allow the slightly oily texture to sink in – it’s not sticky or uncomfortable and it's undetectable within minutes. I’ll then follow with my moisturiser and SPF and go about my day.
Shop: The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum
www.skinceuticals.co.uk
What SkinCeuticals say: 'An antioxidant-rich serum that helps to fortify the skin's defences against environmental aggressors.'
What we know: 'Beloved by beauty editors the world over, this Vitamin C serum is well on its way to becoming a cult classic. Suited to all skin types it makes light work of improving radiance and bolstering skin against environmental aggressors. This year, the serum boasts 20 years of results, backed by 20+ years of antioxidant research - no wonder it's considered the gold standard.
Key ingredients: 15% pure Vitamin C - to neutralises free radicals
0.5% Ferulic Acid - A plant antioxidant, to suppress radiation-induced oxidative reactions.
1% Vitamin E - Also known as alpha-tocopherol, to accelerate the skin renewal process
Pros
- A little goes a long way
- Results are quick - within four weeks
- It's recommended by dermatologists and suited to all skin types
Cons
- It's an expensive hit
Our verdict
Rachael Martin, beauty editor:
'I’ve been reaching for this one for well over a year now and although it's expensive, it's one of the only products that truly transforms my skin when it's in need of some extra TLC. While there's no denying it's a splurge (it comes in at a hefty £165) when I see tangible results so quickly it's worth saving my pennies for - especially when I can forgo regular facials as a result. If you're a total newbie, it's not unusual to see results within a month. One bottle lasts around three months and reveals brighter and more radiant skin provided I remain consistent. I suffer from pigmentation, especially around my upper lip, so it's reassuring to know that this helps to bolster a delicate area against further damage.
Cassie Steer, former acting beauty director: 'Game-changing is how I’d describe the influence this OG vitamin C powerhouse has had on my regime and more importantly on my skin. Before I became familiar with the now legendary amber bottle, my approach to skincare could at best be described as 'scattergun' but this is the product that locked me into a consistent regime. Why? My skin looked better. Pure and simple.'
Rachael Martin is Grazia's Beauty Editor where she covers all things health, beauty and wellness
FAQs
What celebrities use SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic?
- Kendall Jenner revealed she mixes C E Ferulic with Elta MD sunscreen in a Vogue beauty video.
- Hailey Bieber championed C E Ferulic as a favourite of hers on her Instagram stories.
- Sienna Miller revealed to The Telegraph that her facialist Una Brennan got her into the cult serum. 'Una got me on to SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum and now I use it every day,'