The experts from LovelySkin have teamed up with SkinCeuticals to bring you the latest skin care intel.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum has received countless awards and accolades (in addition to garnering a cult following) since its debut in 2005, but we don’t like to play favorites when it comes to the brand’s vitamin C topical antioxidant serums! C E Ferulic’s younger sibling, Phloretin CF Antioxidant Serum, has made a name for itself since its introduction in 2008, and this vitamin C serum offers all the advanced antioxidant protection SkinCeuticals is known for while providing a unique set of benefits. Faced with the choice between these two powerful antioxidant serums, which one is right for you? We’re here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF vs. C E Ferulic, including:

• What’s the difference between Phloretin CF and C E Ferulic?

• Which is better, Phloretin CF or C E Ferulic?

• How can I use Phloretin CF or C E Ferulic to address discoloration?

What’s the difference between Phloretin CF and C E Ferulic?

In the veritable face-off between Phloretin CF vs C E Ferulic, you should know that they both play key roles in any skin care regimen designed to improve the appearance of discoloration. Consider these daily topical antioxidants the first step in getting your skin back on a healthy-looking, even-toned path. While SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is the ideal topical antioxidant for fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness and skin brightening in normal, dry and sensitive skin, SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF may be a better choice for normal, oily and combination skin types experiencing discoloration along with visible signs of aging. Both topical antioxidants feature L-ascorbic acid (the purest form of vitamin C) and ferulic acid, but the addition of phloretin is what makes Phloretin CF unique.

Phloretin is a natural antioxidant derived from apples, pears and other plants. In addition to neutralizing free radicals generated by UV rays, infrared radiation (IRA) and ozone pollution, phloretin enhances the action of other antioxidants, improves the appearance of uneven skin tone and helps minimize the look of sun damage.

Which is better, Phloretin CF or C E Ferulic?

Board-certified dermatologist and LovelySkin CEO Dr. Joel Schlessinger frequently recommends both SkinCeuticals antioxidant serums to his patients depending on their skin needs. "In general, I recommend Phloretin CF for my more oil-prone patients while C E Ferulic works in normal to dry skin situations,” he says. “These serums are the backbone of the SkinCeuticals regimen, so it is important to make sure your skin type is right for it. For nighttime, I also like SkinCeuticals Resveratrol B E, which is a wonderful product as well."

How can I use Phloretin CF or C E Ferulic to address discoloration?

A comprehensive anti-discoloration routine can really help amplify the results of both Phloretin CF and C E Ferulic. Here are three additional products to consider pairing with these serums to help you reduce discoloration and achieve a more even skin tone.

For morning and evening: SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Lightweight and layerable, SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of visible discoloration, including hard-to-improve forms such as stubborn brown patches, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and melasma.

Paraben-, fragrance-, gluten-, silicone- and hydroquinone-free, Discoloration Defense features 3% tranexamic acid, 1% kojic acid, 5% niacinamide and 5% HEPES (a sulfonic acid that promotes the skin’s natural exfoliation process). This potent cocktail of anti-discoloration ingredients works synergistically to promote even skin tone, help prevent new dark spots from forming, reduce the appearance of discoloration and improve skin brightness. Plus, improvement can be seen in as little as two weeks!

For morning: SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

A mineral tinted fluid, this daily sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and instantly helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone while protecting the skin from further discoloration and damage.

Featuring micro-fine zinc oxide (Z-Cote®) and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays, this ultra-sheer, non-irritating formula is infused with artemia salina to enhance the skin’s natural defenses against UV- and heat-induced stress. Plus, translucent color spheres help even out skin tone and boost skin’s radiance upon application. With a paraben- and fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula that’s ideal for all skin types (including sensitive), this lightweight, water-resistant fluid provides a touch of coverage and leaves skin with a soft, radiant finish as well as no white cast.

For evening: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3, 0.5 or 1.0

Retinol is an integral ingredient when targeting skin discoloration. SkinCeuticals offers three retinol concentrations to address the needs of various skin types, and each concentration features an advanced encapsulation system and a soothing complex of bisabolol and Boswellia serrata extract.

The key for maximum retinol results with minimal side effects is starting slow, and those new to this ingredient should begin by applying Retinol 0.3 once or twice a week before increasing frequency of use as the skin builds tolerance. Experienced retinol users generally tolerate a higher concentration. Once your skin is comfortable with Retinol 0.3, you may step up to Retinol 0.5. This concentration can also be used by first-timers with resistant skin that rarely experiences irritation.

SkinCeuticals’ maximum strength Retinol 1.0 is best for skin that has been preconditioned with Retinol 0.5 or has a higher retinol tolerance, as well as those switching from a prescription-based retinol product. With the proper skin care routine, getting radiant, even-toned skin is easier than you think. Combining Phloretin CF or C E Ferulic with a targeted treatment such as Discoloration Defense to correct visible pigmentation, a nighttime retinol product and a broad-spectrum daily sunscreen is a surefire way to put your best face forward.

Are you curious about skin care dupes? You can learn more about why when it comes to skin care, cheaper isn’t always better on the LovelySkin Blog.