SkinCeuticals Just Reformulated Its Iconic Vitamin C Serum

When SkinCeuticals first launched C E Ferulic ($185) in 2005, it quickly became the vitamin C serum every other formula was compared to. Now, two decades later, the iconic serum is getting its first major update: The original antioxidant complex that made it famous remains the same, but SkinCeuticals has enhanced the formula with two new ingredients—carnosine and endophytol—aimed at supporting skin longevity.

Ahead, everything you need to know about the reformulated C E Ferulic, from what made it a cult-favorite serum in the first place to what’s changed in the new version.

What Is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic?

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is an antioxidant serum built on a patented blend of 15 percent pure L-ascorbic acid (a potent form of vitamin C), 1 percent vitamin E and 0.5 percent ferulic acid—and it isn’t just another vitamin C serum: It’s widely considered the gold standard in antioxidant protection. Since its debut, it’s been requested by name by countless skin-care lovers and has earned a loyal following among dermatologists, plastic surgeons and beauty editors (NewBeauty editors included) thanks to its research-backed formulation. As of 2022, one bottle is sold every 30 seconds.

“Vitamin C in skin care is a science-backed ingredient that helps improve the appearance of skin aging, wrinkles, dark spots and acne,” Birmingham, AL dermatologist Sarah Boyce Sawyer, MD previously told NewBeauty. “When used regularly, it helps prevent sun damage and protect against free radicals.”

The serum works by neutralizing free-radical damage caused by environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution. In clinical studies, it’s been shown to measurably reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin firmness, elasticity, radiance and discoloration and even tone and texture.

The combination of antioxidants has also given the serum its reputation for stability. While many vitamin C serums degrade quickly, C E Ferulic holds up, allowing for less potential for skin irritation, better efficacy and a longer shelf life.

What’s New About SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic?

For the first time since its 2005 debut, SkinCeuticals has reformulated C E Ferulic. In addition to the original trio of vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid, the updated formula includes two new antioxidant ingredients: 0.3 percent carnosine and 1 percent endophytol.

Per the SkinCeuticals website, carnosine is a dipeptide made up of two amino acids. Endophytol, meanwhile, is a dandelion root extract with anti-pollution and anti-inflammatory benefits. According to the brand, the pair is designed to work with the existing antioxidant blend to boost its protective and anti-inflammatory effects.

The brand also reports that the new formula provides all the benefits of the original—and can visibly reverse 10 years of signs of aging, like lack of firmness and dullness.

So, if you pick up the refreshed C E Ferulic, expect enhanced protection with the same texture, scent and experience on top of the results you already know and love.