Ferulic Brew Antioxidant Facial Treatment with Lactic Acid
Ferulic Brew Antioxidant Facial Treatment with Lactic Acid
Product Description
An antioxidant-rich facial essence brewed for 120 hours with Ferulic Acid, Lactic Acid (AHA) and Squalane to visibly boost glow, smooth skin texture, and reduce fine lines in just 7 days. This 99% naturally-derived formula provides powerful protection against free radicals while gently exfoliating for radiant, rejuvenated skin.
β¨ Texture & Feel
120-Hour Brewing Process
Unique fermentation of Brassica (rapeseed) sprouts for maximum potency and bioavailability of active ingredients.
Antioxidant Protection
Ferulic acid neutralizes free radicals and environmental stressors that cause premature aging and skin damage.
Gentle Exfoliation
Lactic acid (AHA) removes dull surface cells while hydrating and balancing skin pH for smoother texture.
Barrier Support
Plant-derived squalane replenishes skin's natural moisture barrier for soft, supple, hydrated skin.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Lactic Acid (AHA) at 3.7% and trace Salicylic Acid. While generally considered low-risk, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Not recommended. Contains Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate and plant oils that may feed Malassezia yeast and trigger flare-ups.
Rating 1/5. Water-based formula with non-comedogenic emollients like Dicaprylyl Ether and Squalane. Unlikely to clog pores.
Contains AHA which increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ during the day when using this product.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate 4.7% Proven
A fermented extract rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Enhances skin hydration, smoothness, and radiance while supporting barrier function.
- Science: Studies show ferment filtrates improve skin texture and moisture retention
- Benefit: Provides nutrients that support skin's natural repair processes
π Lactic Acid 3.7% Proven
A gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates, hydrates, and helps strengthen the skin barrier. Unique among AHAs for its moisturizing and pH-balancing properties.
- Science: Promotes natural exfoliation while supporting skin microbiome
- Benefit: Smooths texture, diminishes fine lines, evens skin tone
- Note: Gentler than glycolic acid with better hydrating properties
πΎ Ferulic Acid 0.1% Proven
A powerful plant-derived antioxidant from the cell walls of bran and seeds. Protects against free radicals, supports skin recovery, and stabilizes other antioxidants like Vitamin C and E.
- Science: Doubles photoprotection when combined with Vitamins C and E
- Benefit: Neutralizes environmental damage, helps even skin tone
- Source: Naturally derived from Brassica (rapeseed) sprout extract
π« Squalane ~2% Proven
A highly-refined botanical lipid derived from olives. Mimics skin's natural sebum for exceptional compatibility and fast absorption without greasiness.
- Science: Non-comedogenic with rating of 0, safe for all skin types
- Benefit: Replenishes moisture barrier, keeps skin soft and supple
π Ascorbyl Glucoside ~0.5% Promising
A stable Vitamin C derivative that converts to pure L-ascorbic acid when absorbed into skin. Provides antioxidant benefits with excellent stability.
- Science: More stable than pure Vitamin C, converts in skin
- Benefit: Brightening, collagen support, antioxidant protection
31 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Arginine, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate, Dicaprylyl Ether, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, Propanediol, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Salicylic Acid, Ferulic Acid, Caramel, Adenosine, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil, Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf/Nut/Stem Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Linalool, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Brassica Campestris Extract/Rapeseed Extract, Brassica Campestris Sprout Extract/Rapeseed Sprout Extract, Mentha Piperita Oil/Peppermint Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Origanum Majorana Leaf Oil
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning. Primes skin to better absorb serums and moisturizers. Use AM and PM. Always follow with SPF during the day.
π How to Use
Shake the Bottle
Give the bottle 5 shakes before opening to mix the two-phase formula properly.
Dispense 5 Drops
Pour approximately 5 drops (small coin-sized amount) into the palm of your hand.
Press Onto Skin
Press the essence onto cheeks, chin, forehead, and neck for 2 seconds each. Pat gently until absorbed.
Follow With Care
Continue with your serum and moisturizer. In the AM, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want to brighten dull, lackluster skin
- You're concerned about fine lines and early signs of aging
- You need gentle exfoliation without irritation
- You want antioxidant protection from pollution
- You prefer naturally-derived formulas
- You have normal, dry, or combination skin
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia sensitivity
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor)
- You're sensitive to essential oils or fragrance
- You need a stronger AHA concentration (>10%)
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You're on a tight budget
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Provides balanced exfoliation and hydration for naturally healthy skin maintenance.
Lactic acid hydrates while exfoliating. Squalane supports barrier. Follow with rich moisturizer.
Lightweight texture absorbs well. May leave slight dewy finish which some oily types may not prefer.
Balances well across different zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Contains essential oils and AHA. Patch test recommended. Start with every other day use.
Low comedogenic rating but NOT fungal acne safe. Good for bacterial acne, avoid for Malassezia.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration
Skin feels softer and more hydrated. Light dewy glow visible immediately after application.
85% noticedVisible Glow & Smoother Texture
Complexion looks brighter and more radiant. Fine lines appear softened. Skin texture feels smoother to touch.
92% noticedImproved Tone & Clarity
More even skin tone. Dullness significantly reduced. Pores appear refined. Skin looks rejuvenated.
88% noticedCumulative Anti-Aging Benefits
Fine lines and wrinkles visibly reduced. Skin barrier strengthened. Long-term antioxidant protection established.
90% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Visible glow within 7 days of use
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- 99% naturally-derived ingredients
- Gentle yet effective exfoliation
- Beautiful glass bottle packaging
- Pleasant herbal scent (for most)
- Preps skin well for serums/moisturizers
- Long-lasting - one bottle can last 6-12 months
β Criticized
- Higher price point vs drugstore options
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains essential oils (irritating for some)
- Low ferulic acid concentration (0.1%)
- Must shake before each use
- Herbal scent polarizing
- Not pregnancy-confirmed safe
- Glass bottle not ideal for travel
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Higher concentration of ferulic acid (3% vs 0.1%). Water-free formula. No ferment filtrate or AHA. Best as antioxidant-only treatment. Mix with Vit C powder for DIY C E Ferulic dupe.
Stronger lactic acid concentration for more intense exfoliation. No ferulic acid or ferment. Includes hyaluronic acid. Better for texture concerns, less antioxidant benefit.
Classic C E Ferulic formula with 20% L-ascorbic acid. Stronger antioxidant punch but no exfoliating AHA. Different texture (serum vs essence). Great for brightening.
Similar dual-phase essence concept with fermented ingredients. Contains beech bud extract instead of ferulic. More luxurious experience at higher price point.
π Comparison with Competitors
Kiehl's Ferulic Brew (This Product)
$32 / 100mlSkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
$182 / 30mlSK-II Facial Treatment Essence
$185 / 160mlThe Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic 3%
$10.40 / 30mlπ¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly closed.
Amber glass bottle with dropper cap. Recyclable packaging. Shake before each use.
100ml size is TSA-compliant for carry-on. Glass bottle - pack carefully to prevent breakage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. This product contains Lactic Acid (3.7% AHA), trace Salicylic Acid (BHA), and essential oils (lavender, peppermint). While lactic acid at this concentration is generally considered low-risk, and ferulic acid has mixed opinions on pregnancy safety, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some dermatologists approve it; others suggest avoiding all AHAs during this time.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate and plant oils (sunflower seed oil) that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Fermented ingredients and certain fatty acids are known triggers for fungal acne. If you're prone to Malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Resveratrol + Ferulic Acid which is fungal acne safe.
Yes, with some considerations. Vitamin C: Great to use together - ferulic acid actually stabilizes and enhances vitamin C. Apply Ferulic Brew first, then vitamin C serum. Retinol: Use in alternating routines (AM essence, PM retinol) or on different days to avoid over-exfoliation. Other AHAs/BHAs: Since this already contains lactic acid (AHA), avoid layering additional acids in the same routine to prevent irritation. If you want to use glycolic acid or salicylic acid, use them at different times of day or on alternating days.
This essence works best for normal, dry, and combination skin types seeking anti-aging and brightening benefits. It's excellent for those with dull skin, uneven texture, or early signs of aging (fine lines). Oily skin types may enjoy it but might find the dewy finish too much. Sensitive skin should patch test first due to the AHA and essential oils. It is NOT suitable for those with fungal acne or ferment sensitivities.
Based on clinical studies and user reviews: Immediate (Day 1): Hydration and subtle glow. Week 1: 92% of users notice smoother, more hydrated, rejuvenated-looking skin. Week 2-3: Improved texture and more even tone. Week 4+: Visible reduction in fine lines and cumulative antioxidant benefits. For best results, use consistently twice daily (AM and PM) for at least 4 weeks.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before serums and moisturizer. The order is: 1) Cleanser β 2) Toner β 3) Ferulic Brew Essence β 4) Serum (Vitamin C, etc.) β 5) Moisturizer β 6) Sunscreen (AM only). As an essence, it's designed to prep your skin to better absorb the products that follow. Always shake the bottle 5 times before use, then apply 5 drops by pressing into skin.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is primarily water-based with non-comedogenic emollients like Dicaprylyl Ether (rating 0) and Squalane (rating 0). While it contains some plant oils, they appear low in the ingredient list. Most users with normal to combination skin report no clogged pores. However, if you're extremely acne-prone or have fungal acne, the ferment filtrate may cause issues.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The amber glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. Many users report that one 100ml bottle lasts 6-12 months with twice-daily use (5 drops per application). The larger 200ml size offers better value for committed users.
Verdict: Kiehl's Ferulic Brew is an elegant, well-formulated essence that delivers on its promise of glowing, smoother skin within days. The unique 120-hour brewing process and 99% naturally-derived formula set it apart from competitors. The gentle lactic acid provides effective exfoliation without irritation, while ferulic acid offers antioxidant protection. However, the low ferulic acid concentration (0.1%) may disappoint those seeking stronger antioxidant benefits, and the product is NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to the ferment filtrate. Best for normal to dry skin types seeking a luxurious, naturally-derived essence for anti-aging and radiance. Consider budget alternatives like The Ordinary if price is a concern.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Arginine
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
|
|
| 0 |
Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dicaprylyl Ether
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|