According to CreamScan analysis, Medik8 Super C Ferulic is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.
Is it more humectant or occlusive? It is purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, due to the high content of Propylene Glycol (est. ≈11.0%), Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%) and Pentylene Glycol (est. ≈4.0%).
This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, providing significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula without any occlusive ingredients.
Tip: Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.
But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.
Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.
We estimate that Medik8 Super C Ferulic is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈22.0%), Ferulic Acid (est. ≈3.0%) and Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane (est. ≈2.0%).
A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.
Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.
While humectants are highly effective at attracting water to the skin, studies (J. N. Kraft, C. W. Lynde) suggest they may not be efficient when used alone.
One major drawback of purely humectant moisturization is that the water attracted by humectants to the upper layers of the skin can evaporate completely into the environment through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Adding occlusive ingredients helps seal this moisture into the skin and prevent further water loss.
If you’re using Medik8 Super C Ferulic as your only moisturizer, consider pairing it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones. These work alongside humectants to create a protective barrier, locking in hydration and ensuring longer-lasting moisturization. The amount of occlusive needed depends on your skin type - the drier the skin, the more occlusives it requires.
If this product is used not as a standalone moisturizer but as part of your skincare routine, such as a toner or serum, it should be applied before your main moisturizer (unless it's a sunscreen), which will provide the necessary occlusivity on top of it.
If one of your main reasons for choosing Medik8 Super C Ferulic is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.
It contains 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
Therefore, this ingredient does not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.
Est. %
The Estimated % is our algorithm-based assumption about an ingredient's concentration in a formula. Learn more The Estimated % is our algorithm-based assumption about an ingredient's concentration in a formula. Learn more | Ingredient | Origin | Functions | |
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22 | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid A derivative of vitamin C. Its stability in skincare formulations is better than ascorbic acid’s, although clinical studies are yet to indicate whether it has the same collagen-boosting benefits. 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid A derivative of vitamin C. Its stability in skincare formulations is better than ascorbic acid’s, although clinical studies are yet to indicate whether it has the same collagen-boosting benefits. | Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. | |
11 | Propylene Glycol A clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin. Propylene Glycol A clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin. | Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Moisturizing (Humectant), Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant), Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper
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6 | Butylene Glycol A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups. Butylene Glycol A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups. | Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic, All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic, All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. | Moisturizing (Humectant), Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant), Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper
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4 | Pentylene Glycol A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent. Pentylene Glycol A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent. | Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic, All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic, All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. | Moisturizing (Humectant), Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant), Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Formula helper
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3 | Ferulic Acid A plant-based phenolic acid with powerful and scientifically proven antioxidant properties. It enhances the effects of vitamins C and E, as well as the UV protective effects of sunscreens. Ferulic Acid A plant-based phenolic acid with powerful and scientifically proven antioxidant properties. It enhances the effects of vitamins C and E, as well as the UV protective effects of sunscreens. | Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Formula helper
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2 | Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane An antioxidant turmeric derivative. Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane An antioxidant turmeric derivative. | Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. | |
1.5 | Water The most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients. Water The most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients. | Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water. Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water. | Formula helper
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1 | Tocopheryl Acetate An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol. Tocopheryl Acetate An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol. | Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. | Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. | |
50 Methoxymethylbutanol Function: Formula helper Formula helper
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22 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Function: Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-Wrinkle Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Wrinkle, Anti-Wrinkle Anti-wrinkle ingredients prevent the formation or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Origin: Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |
11 Propylene Glycol Function: Moisturizing (Humectant), Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant), Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Fragrance, Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper Formula helper
Formula helper Formula helper
Origin: Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |
6 Butylene Glycol Function: Moisturizing (Humectant), Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant), Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Fragrance, Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper Formula helper
Formula helper Formula helper
Origin: Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic, Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic, Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Petroleum Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. Petroleum Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. |
4 Pentylene Glycol Function: Moisturizing (Humectant), Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant), Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Preservative, Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative, Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Formula helper Formula helper
Formula helper Formula helper
Origin: Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic, Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic, Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Petroleum Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. Petroleum Petroleum Ingredients derived from petroleum, also called crude oil. Crude oil deposits were obtained from the remains of ancient organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria. |
3 Ferulic Acid Function: Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobial Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobial Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Preservative, Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative, Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Formula helper Formula helper
Formula helper Formula helper
Origin: Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |
2 Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane Function: Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant, Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Soothing, Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing, Soothing Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Anti-Pigmentation Anti-Pigmentation Anti-pigmentation ingredients help to even skin tone by reducing the intensity of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Origin: Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |
1.5 Water Function: Formula helper Formula helper
Formula helper Formula helper
Origin: Naturally occurring Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water. Naturally occurring Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water. |
1 Tocopheryl Acetate Function: Antioxidant Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Antioxidant Antioxidant Antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and prevent accelerated skin aging. Origin: Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Botanical Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. |