SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Review: C E Ferulic for Oily Skin
Phloretin CF is SkinCeuticals' vitamin C serum for oily and combination skin. Same Duke patent, oilier-skin formulation.
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What we like
- ✓ Same Duke patent ratio as C E Ferulic
- ✓ Premium Beauty listing
- ✓ Better for oily/combo skin than CEF
- ✓ Includes phloretin (additional antioxidant)
- ✓ Visible brightening + photoprotection
What bugs us
- ✗ Under $250 is luxury pricing
- ✗ Strong fermented smell
- ✗ Can be drying for very dry skin
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF is C E Ferulic reformulated for oily and combination skin. Same Duke patent, lighter texture, added phloretin antioxidant. At under $250 it’s the same investment as CEF, pick based on your skin type.
If C E Ferulic feels too rich on your skin, this is the version for you.
CEF vs Phloretin CF
| Feature | C E Ferulic | Phloretin CF |
|---|---|---|
| Skin type | Normal/dry | Oily/combo |
| Key actives | 15% L-ascorbic + 1% vit E + 0.5% ferulic | 2% phloretin + 10% L-ascorbic + 0.5% ferulic |
| Texture | Slightly heavier | Lighter |
| Price | Under $250 | Under $250 |
| Premium Beauty | Yes | Yes |
What phloretin adds
Phloretin is a natural antioxidant from apple peel and white birch root. It enhances vitamin C’s photoprotective effect and adds anti-inflammatory action particularly useful for acne-prone skin.
12-week results
- Week 4: brightening visible
- Week 8: significant photoprotection synergy with SPF
- Week 12: even tone, fewer pimples
- Best paired with EltaMD UV Clear or Supergoop Unseen for combo skin
Where to buy: SkinCeuticals does not sell Phloretin CF through its own storefront on Amazon. Listings there are third-party or lookalike products, so we no longer link them. Buy from SkinCeuticals directly or an authorized retailer. For a verified budget vitamin C alternative on Amazon, see the Maelove Glow Maker (under $50) .
The verdict
Verdict: Top pick. C E Ferulic for oily skin. Same gold standard at the same price.
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