Hot Dog Water Chic? Why Everyone’s Talking About SkinCeuticals’ Vitamin C Serum
After 20 years of reigning as the holy grail of glow, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic just entered the public domain — and the internet is having a moment.
As of now, other brands can legally dupe the $182 cult-favorite vitamin C serum, thanks to the expiration of its patent. What that means? A wave of copycats, more price points, and maybe fewer burnt garlic vibes.
“Yes but will it also smell like burnt garlic hot dogs?”
“Hot dog water is what I called it.”
“It’s the worst delivery system. Sunlight ruins it, but ok.”
The comments are going down in history as some of the funniest beauty commentary of the year — and also, kind of a warning label.
The Science: What Made It Iconic
The OG C E Ferulic combined 15% L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), 1% vitamin E, and 0.5% ferulic acid — a cocktail that stabilizes antioxidants and boosts photoprotection.
That formula became iconic in clinical circles and editorial favorites lists alike — despite the smell and the $182 price tag.
What Happens Now?
Now that the patent is expired, any skincare brand can replicate the ratio (and many are already on it). Think: lower prices, better packaging (hopefully), and maybe…less hot dog essence?
If you’re not ready to shell out nearly $200, expect a rise in “C E dupes” on shelves soon — possibly with updated tech and less oxidative stress.
L’Heir’s Take:
We love a good skincare icon, but this is also a cultural moment: the meeting of luxury rituals and memeable realness.
The memory of this serum may forever smell like garlic and regrets, but it’s also a reminder of how beauty legends age — and how science (and social media) shape their legacy.
Would you still use it? Or are you team “dupe it, but deodorize it”?
Your Turn:
Drop your favorite Vitamin C serum below or tell us:
what’s your most iconic product memory that smelled…wrong?
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