Trader Joe’s has done it again! They just released a $10 dupe of the $185 SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum which is considered as the gold-standard vitamin C formula. Say hello to the new Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum that has the same actives at the same percentages as the iconic formula by SkinCeuticals….all without a perilously high price tag!
Ever since the 20-year patent on the SkinCeuticals Vitamin C serum expired earlier this year, other brands have started to release their own versions (dupes) like this one at much lower price points! And Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum is the latest addition to the lineup of these affordable alternatives!
Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum Key Ingredients
- 15% L-ascorbic acid (AKA Vitamin C)
- 1% Tocopherol (AKA vitamin E)
- 0.5% Ferulic Acid (a powerful antioxidant that helps keep the combo of Vitamin C and E stable)
Full Ingredient List
WATER, ETHOXYDIGLYCOL, ASCORBIC ACID, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, POLYGLYCERYL10 CAPRYLATE, GLYCERIN, TRIETHANOLAMINE, PHENOXYETHANOL, FERULIC ACID, HELIANTHUS ANNUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, TOCOPHEROL, PANTHENOL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, CITRIC ACID.
Formulated by dermatologists, the Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum contains a powerful antioxidant combination of 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (tocopherol) and 0.5% ferulic acid that work synergistically to brighten skin, boost collagen and visibly improve signs of aging including discoloration, loss of firmness and the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles.
SkinCeuticals Vitamin C Serum Dupe?
If you compare the ingredients of both the products, the Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum ingredient list is very similar to the SkinCeuticals vitamin C serum.
Of course, we don’t know the exact percentages of ALL the ingredients, but both the serums contain the same KEY ingredients in the same concentration — 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (tocopherol) and 0.5% ferulic acid
The only main difference in the ingredient list is that the Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum contains sunflower seed oil. Personally, I don’t mind that at all but some people might not like it. Here is what one of my favorite dermatologist has to say about this serum….
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Now let’s talk about the pH factor!
As I have mentioned before, the ideal pH for a vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) serum is generally considered to be between 2.5 and 3.5. At this low pH, vitamin C is in its most stable and bioavailable form, allowing it to penetrate the skin barrier and deliver its antioxidant, brightening, and collagen-boosting benefits.
I tested the pH for the Trader Joe’s Vitamin C serum using pH strips (available at Amazon) and it has a pH level of about 3.0 to 3.5 which is in the optimal pH range for maximum absorption and efficacy of vitamin C.
Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum Review
Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum has a lightweight, liquidy texture that absorbs easily. It doesn’t feel sticky or tacky but has a slightly oily finish (just like the SkinCeuticals serum) Take a look at my Instagram reel below to see the texture…
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The Trader Joe’s Vitamin C serum also has that typical hot dog water smell that the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is known for. However, the good news is that the smell is very mild and isn’t as noticeable, and thankfully it dissipates quickly too! In fact, I have been using this serum for more than 2 weeks now and I don’t even notice the smell anymore while applying.
I use this serum in the morning on clean, dry skin (face and neck), and then apply a hydrating sunscreen and skin tint. It layers nicely under my sunscreen and makeup, without any pilling issues.
Make sure to store this vitamin C serum in a cool, dark place to avoid excess exposure to heat or light which can cause the formula to oxidize and darken over time. Refrigeration is recommended.
Bottom Line
I highly recommend trying the new Trader Joe’s Vitamin C Serum, especially if you are a fan of the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum! The price difference is staggering and another bonus is that Trader Joe’s is cruelty-free while SkinCeuticals is not.
This serum is the perfect pick for anyone looking for a SkinCeuticals Vitamin C serum dupe. It’s potent and effective yet easily affordable at only $9.99! Give it a try and you might just find your new favorite like I did!
Available at Trader Joe’s stores for $9.99 (1fl oz)
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