Which scores higher with the experts?
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic holds a Guru Score of 75%, just ahead of The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 at 72%. The first draws on 33 independent expert reviews, the second on 17. On the experts' own numbers that puts C E Ferulic in Approved territory and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 in Mixed.
What do the experts say about C E Ferulic?
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic carries a Guru Score of 75% from 33 independent experts. This serum has solid clinical backing and delivers results for those who tolerate L-ascorbic acid well, but experts genuinely split on whether the £165-185 price tag is justified now that the original patent has expired and affordable alternatives with similar formulas exist. Those with sensitive skin or darker skin tones may find the concentration irritating and should patch-test first, as L-ascorbic acid at this strength triggers redness in a significant portion of people. For normal to dry skin types who know they handle the active well, dermatologists note it remains reliable and worth keeping; for everyone else, gurus suggest exploring cheaper dupes with the same active form before committing to the premium price.
What do the experts say about Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5?
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 carries a Guru Score of 72% from 17 independent experts. The reformulated version earns consistent praise for how it blends smoothly with other products in a routine, a marked improvement over the original formula that would foam and clash with moisturizers and sunscreen. Most gurus highlight its texture-evening effect and affordability, though one notes it may not feel deeply hydrating on its own. One expert cautions that using a separate hyaluronic acid serum on top of products already containing it risks overdoing it; if you do use this one, apply it to damp skin and follow with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
Which should you choose?
On the experts' scores SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic comes out ahead, 75% to 72%, a gap of 3 points. It has 33 experts behind it against 17 for The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. C E Ferulic is most often recommended for mature skin, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for dry and mature. Both are independently verified on the Guru Index, so either is a sound pick; let the use case and your budget settle it.