Shoppers Say This $16 Serum Is ‘Almost Identical’ to the $182 Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum

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We don’t want to start drama between prestige skincare and drugstore darlings, but e.l.f. Skin’s Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Serum might be asking for it. At just $16, shoppers are boldly calling it “almost identical” to Skinceuticals’ cult-favorite $182 C E Ferulic — and honestly? The receipts are just as glowing as fans’ skin after regular use.

Formulated with a triple-threat blend of 15% vitamin C, 1% vitamin E, and 0.5% ferulic acid, this radiance-boosting serum is delivering on the gold-standard ingredients usually reserved for luxury labels. One shopper raved, “This is exactly almost identical to the hundred dollar one… amazing. Will be buying again.” Another went further: “I have finally been released from my $170 vitamin C shackles!”

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It’s not just a budget-friendly alternative — it’s actually good. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula doesn’t leave behind that sticky, grimy film vitamin C is (infamously) known for. “It absorbs quickly, feels lightweight, and leaves my skin looking noticeably brighter,” one reviewer wrote. The bonus? It layers well under SPF and moisturizer without pilling, making this brightening facial serum an easy a.m. staple.

e.l.f. Skin Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Serum

Buy Now $16

Unlike some of its pricier counterparts, this one skips the funky vitamin C smell and comes in a sleek, pump-style bottle that keeps the ingredients stable and your hands clean. “The packaging is amazing too — very luxe,” a shopper noted. Another added, “I love that it doesn’t have a horrible smell like other vitamin C serums I’ve tried.”

After just two weeks, users are reporting brighter skin, fewer dark spots, and that elusive “my skin just looks… better?” glow. “Been trying this for about 2 weeks and have noticed a lot of my dark spots fading and general life brought back to my complexion,” one review shared. Another summed it up simply: “Affordable, effective, and cruelty-free.”

So if your skin’s been begging for a brightening boost but your wallet says absolutely not to three-digit price tags, this new e.l.f. Skin Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Serum may just be your new skincare MVP.

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