
Vitamin C · $
20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum
Timeless
See reviewsAn affordable serum mirroring the classic C+E+ferulic antioxidant trio with 20% L-ascorbic acid; best used fresh and stored cool since water-based vitamin C oxidizes over time.
- Best for
- Combination skin
- Price
- $
- Targets
- BrighteningAgingProtection
- Key actives
- Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Vitamin E (Tocopherol), Ferulic Acid
Benefits
- 20% L-ascorbic acid brightens and defends against free radicals
- Vitamin E and ferulic acid round out the antioxidant complex
- A budget alternative to premium CEF serums
Key ingredients explained
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
AntioxidantAs listed: L-Ascorbic Acid
A potent antioxidant that neutralizes UV-generated free radicals and acts as an essential cofactor for the enzymes that synthesize and stabilize collagen; it also inhibits tyrosinase to reduce melanin. The result is brighter, firmer, more even skin.
In the guideHyaluronic Acid
HumectantAs listed: Sodium Hyaluronate
A glycosaminoglycan humectant that binds large amounts of water; high-molecular-weight forms sit on the surface as a hydrating film, low-molecular-weight forms penetrate the stratum corneum. Because it is a humectant, in dry air it can pull water from deeper skin — so apply to damp skin and seal it.
In the guidePanthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
SoothingAs listed: Panthenol
The stable analog of vitamin B5, converted in skin to pantothenic acid. As a humectant it improves hydration and lowers water loss, while soothing irritation, reducing erythema, and supporting barrier repair and re-epithelialization.
In the guideVitamin E (Tocopherol)
AntioxidantAs listed: Alpha Tocopherol
A fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes UV-generated free radicals and prevents lipid peroxidation and oxidative photoaging. It also moisturizes the stratum corneum and has anti-inflammatory activity — and works best alongside vitamin C.
In the guideFerulic Acid
AntioxidantA plant-derived phenolic antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and, critically, stabilizes vitamins C and E in formulation. Added to a 15% vitamin C + 1% vitamin E solution it roughly doubles photoprotection against solar-simulated UV — the classic 'Duke' antioxidant complex.
In the guideFull ingredient list
Highlighted ingredients are explained above.
How to use
- 01Apply a few drops to clean skin in the morning.
- 02Follow with SPF.
- 03Refrigerate and use within a few months.
Warnings
- Oxidizes with light and air; store cool and dark.
- May tingle on sensitive skin.
Expert summary
A faithful, inexpensive take on the C+E+ferulic formula; the trade-off for the price is a water-based L-ascorbic acid that oxidizes faster, so buy fresh and store cold.
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