Comparing Vitamin C Serum Formulas: Silicone vs. Water-Based (Skinceuticals Type)

Asked by: nutthawat.d On: July 19, 2013 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please explain the differences between a Vitamin C serum formulated in silicone (Vitamin C in Silicone) and a water-based formula like Vitamin C E Ferulic (Skinceuticals type)? Specifically, how do they differ in terms of:

  • Feeling/texture on the skin after application?
  • Absorption into the skin?
  • Stability and shelf life?
  • Any other key differences or benefits?

Answer

Subject: Vitamin C Serum: Silicone vs. Skinceuticals Type

Based on the information provided, here's a comparison of the two Vitamin C serum types:

Shelf Life:

  • The silicone-based (anhydrous/no water) Vitamin C formula generally has a longer shelf life compared to the Skinceuticals-type (water-based) formula, assuming both are stored under the same conditions (away from light and in a cool environment). This is because Vitamin C is more stable in the absence of water.

Effectiveness and Absorption:

  • Skinceuticals-type (Water-based): Vitamin C is dissolved in the formula, allowing it to start absorbing into the skin relatively quickly after application.
  • Silicone-based: The Vitamin C is present as a very fine powder suspended in silicone. The silicone evaporates after application (around 5-10 minutes), leaving the Vitamin C powder on the skin. The powder then gradually dissolves and absorbs over a longer period (around 15-30 minutes).
  • While the silicone formula keeps the Vitamin C theoretically "fresher" due to lack of water exposure, the water-based formula allows for more immediate absorption. Both deliver Vitamin C, but the process differs.

Texture and Additional Benefits:

  • Skinceuticals-type (C E Ferulic): This formula typically has a different texture and often includes beneficial additional ingredients like Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid (for enhanced antioxidant protection), and Panthenol (for moisture), providing a more comprehensive serum.
  • Silicone-based: This formula tends to feel drier on the skin and usually contains only Vitamin C, unless other ingredients are specifically added.

In summary, the silicone-based formula offers superior stability and potentially longer shelf life for the Vitamin C itself, while the Skinceuticals-type formula offers quicker initial absorption and often includes additional ingredients for broader skin benefits. The choice depends on your priorities regarding stability, absorption speed, texture preference, and desired additional ingredients.

Tags

Absorption Serum Serum Formulation Stability Texture