<p>Why? Because vitamin C and ferulic acid, both antioxidants, “work phenomenally together,” explains board-certified dermatologist <u><a href=”https://www.schweigerderm.com/providers/rachel-nazarian-m-d/” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.schweigerderm.com/providers/rachel-nazarian-m-d/&source=gmail&ust=1721931749485000&usg=AOvVaw16X47i_388c2inobf-ed98″>Rachel Nazarian</a>.</u> “Ferulic acid allows the vitamin C to stay more stable, meaning it can be effective longer, and often makes it more tolerable. It also boosts its photo-protective ability, shielding [the skin] from sun damage,” adds Nazarian. While SkinCeuticals’s formula is tried and true, there are so many impressive, under-the-radar, cost-effective vitamin C serums that include ferulic acid. Ahead, we rank and review the top 10—all of which would be foolproof picks for a daily skin serum.</p>”/>
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper’s BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
1
Best Overall
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Most dermatologists consider this the “tried and true” of vitamin C serums. It’s a potent antioxidant combination that effectively bubble-wraps your skin, protecting it from environmental damage (sun, pollution, etc.) while adding radiance and improving signs of aging.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid
What our editors are saying: “I’ve been using this for years, and it always delivers impressive brightening results. I like to use it in the morning before sunscreen—just know that the smell can be offputting to some!” -Jenna Rosenstein, beauty director
One customer writes: “Love this liquid gold. Helps take away my sunspots.” -Eileen
2
Best For Skin Brightening
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum
Pros
- Free of essential oils
- Clinically proven to firm and brighten skin
Cons
- Liquid and powder packaged separately for stability, requires self-combination
Similarly, Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Fresh Serum combines vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid. It’s super effective—in clinical trials, 100 percent of the participants showed improvement in skin tone and radiance, and it’s more affordable than competitors. However, it does require manual mixing, as the liquid and powder components are packaged separately (but sold together) for stability. But if you don’t mind playing mixologist, this is a great pick.
Key Ingredients: l-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, tocopherol
One customer writes: “Being in my late forties, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my complexion – it’s brighter, more even, and has a healthy glow — since using this serum. It absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky residue.” -Kit
3
Best Deal
MAELOVE The Glow Maker Antioxidant Serum
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Fast-absorbing formula
Over 14,000 reviewers have given this serum a 5-star review. It contains the trifecta—vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid—and is non-sticky, non-irritating, and visibly reduces hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. The $32 price point is unmatched.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid
One customer writes: “The best vitamin C serum I’ve ever used! I can’t believe what a difference it has made.” – Andrea M.
4
Best For Skin Protection
Doctor Rogers Day Preventive Treatment
Pros
- Dermatologist-created formula
Cons
- Some reviewers would prefer alternative packaging, like a dropper instead of a pump
Unlike other vitamin C and ferulic acid serums, which may only protect your skin from free radicals during exposure, dermatologist Heather Rogers’s treatment uses three different antioxidants that work synergistically to protect your skin before, during, and after exposure to the sun, pollution, or blue light. Of course, always apply sunscreen over your day serum.
Key Ingredients: Bis (Cyano Butylacetate) Anthracenediylidene, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THDC), Acetyl Zingerone
One customer writes: “I got a sunburn and applied the Day Preventative Treatment to my forehead and when I woke up in the morning, my sunburn was gone! I love this product” -Matt A.
5
Best For Mature Skin
Medik8 Super C Ferulic Serum
Pros
- Fragrance-free formula
- Fast-absorbing formula
Cons
- Potent, may not be suitable for highly sensitive skin
Great for aging skin, this serum contains 30 percent vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and turmeric root extract to brighten the skin and improve overall texture and tone. Reviewers also cite that the formula is “richer” than other, more watery vitamin C formulas.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, tumeric root extract
One customer writes: “Just a few drops make my skin feel so hydrated and knowing the age spots are fading is a bonus.” -Beccy H.
6
Best with Pollution Protection Benefits
MATTER OF FACT BRIGHTENING + FIRMING SERUM with 20% Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid
Pros
- Great for dry skin
- Includes maritime pine extract for pollution protection
Cons
- Over $90
- Texture feels oily
This brightening serum shares similarities with others on this list, but it also includes a special ingredient called maritime pine extract, which can soothe and defend skin against pollution exposure. The oil-like texture glides onto the skin like a dream, and it’s a great choice for city dwellers.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, ferulic acid, maritime pine extract
One customer writes: “I’ve been using this product for over 6 months now daily and I really love it. I have sensitive acne-prone skin AND rosacea, and it doesn’t burn or break me out. I use one pump daily mixed in with my moisturizer and it lasts forever, I’m still on my second bottle. My skin has gradually been healthier, looking, and brighter. It’s great under my sunscreen and makeup. Highly recommend.” -Jenjimar
7
Best For Fading Dark Spots
Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster
Pros
- Clinically proven to boost skin’s glow in 15 minutes
- Lightweight formula
This 15 percent vitamin C is boosted with ferulic acid and ergothioneine (EGT), a naturally occurring antioxidant that can inhibit melanin production and help fade dark spots. It’s also super lightweight, suitable for acne-prone or healing skin.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, ferulic acid, ergothioneine (EGT)
One customer writes: “Dealing with hormonal acne is challenging and has given my skin a duller appearance with a lot of congestion. I used this product in the past and stopped when I was a broke college kid, but upon [picking it up] again, the results were immediate, the glow was great, and even better, my hormonal acne was not irritated and [the serum] did not produce any more breakouts. It will remain a staple for me!” -Asia
8
Best For Sensitive Skin
Prequel Lucent-C Vitamin C Facial Serum
Pros
- Dermatologist-created formula
- Allergy-tested formula
- Affordable price point
This fragrance-free vitamin C, created by dermatologist Sam Ellis is great for anyone with sensitive skin. It contains a blend of L-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, ergothioneine, niacinamide, and inulin, which brighten the skin. Because it’s fragrance-free, allergy-tested, pH stabilized, and alcohol-free, it’s suitable for all skin types.
Key Ingredients: L-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, ergothioneine, niacinamide, inulin
One customer writes: “This is great to use in the mornings before SPF! I noticed a difference in my dark spots within two weeks (I scar easily from a pimple). The packaging feels high end and I love the price!” -Erin
9
Best For Acne-Prone Skin
Hyper Skin Hyper Even Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Hydroquinone-free formula
- Developed for deep skin tones
Cons
- Does not contain ferulic acid, if that is what you’re looking for
Developed as a solution to hyperpigmentation in skin of color, this serum uses vitamin C and kojic acid—not ferulic—to help lighten acne scars and pigmentation. Its anti-inflammatory ingredients, like turmeric and salicylic acid, help prevent new breakouts.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, kojic acid, turmeric, salicylic acid
One customer writes: “I’ve seen a noticeable difference from just one use! After my first application, I noticed my skin had a nice, healthy glow. A month later, I noticed that my more troublesome acne scarring (from eczema and skin-picking) had begun to fade. Will continue using this for even greater results!” -Tynea
10
Best Gel-Based Serum
Avène A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum
Pros
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Provides 24-hour hydration
Cons
- Contains light fragrance
- Does not contain ferulic acid
This gel-based serum is super light and absorbs into the skin quickly. Using Avene’s proprietary thermal spring water and hyaluronic acid, it brightens and plumps the skin without causing any irritation.
Key Ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin E, thermal spring water
One customer writes: “This is a hard-working serum. My skin is brighter since using it — and softer and moisturized.” -Claire
Meet the Experts
What is ferulic acid?
Ferulic acid is an antioxidant in its own right, albeit one that isn’t as potent or popular as vitamin C. “While it can neutralize free-radical damage, its true superpower is its ability to stabilize some forms of vitamin C and adjust the pH,” explains Nazarian.
What does combining vitamin C and ferulic acid do for my skin?
Ferulic acid effectively stabilizes vitamin C. “Vitamin C and ferulic acid are complementary because ferulic acid helps stabilize vitamin C, enhancing its effectiveness and longevity,” explains Garshick. “Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and protect against UV damage, while ferulic acid further boosts these antioxidant properties and provides additional protection against environmental damage.”
How do I use a vitamin C and ferulic acid serum?
Dermatologists recommend using a vitamin C and ferulic acid serum in the morning, applying it on bare skin after cleansing and before applying moisturizer and sunscreen. “This ensures that your skin receives maximum antioxidant protection throughout the day,” explains Garshick.
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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
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