The Ordinary - Vitamin C Suspension 23% + Ha Spheres 2% 30ml

My skin is definitely no stranger to high percentage Vitamin C (take GOW's 23% serum for example) and so I thought nothing could possibly go wrong with The Ordinary's 23% concentration. If only! Within 60 seconds of applying this gritty and very oily-textured product, I could no longer stand the tingling sensation and had to wash it off with tepid water and a washcloth. I wish I could say this was part of the whole 'normal Vit C initial reaction', but I've used enough of them in the past to know what to expect...and what not to! The redness and a slightly uncomfortable sensation lasted for at least 15 minutes after washing off too. Didn't attempt using this again on my face after that reaction, which is a shame as this could have been a very cost effective ... MoreMy skin is definitely no stranger to high percentage Vitamin C (take GOW's 23% serum for example) and so I thought nothing could possibly go wrong with The Ordinary's 23% concentration. If only! Within 60 seconds of applying this gritty and very oily-textured product, I could no longer stand the tingling sensation and had to wash it off with tepid water and a washcloth. I wish I could say this was part of the whole 'normal Vit C initial reaction', but I've used enough of them in the past to know what to expect...and what not to! The redness and a slightly uncomfortable sensation lasted for at least 15 minutes after washing off too. Didn't attempt using this again on my face after that reaction, which is a shame as this could have been a very cost effective substitute for some of the more pricey Vit C serums I keep splashing out on. On the plus side, it turns out there is a way for me to salvage this, by applying a very small amount mixed with Aveeno lotion (approximately 1/6th Vit C to lotion ratio) to non-sensitive areas of my body and the back of my hands on a night, and it hasn't caused any negative reaction so far, in fact it's given a bit of 'glow' to my skin. I'm also applying at a slightly stronger ratio (1/4) to my elbows which are darker than the rest of my arms, but no difference so far. No negative reaction either, and no staining so will continue to apply until it's used up. ~ My Sephora Top 7 must-have list ~ (My top 7 must-have beauty products of all time, focusing mainly on my purchases at Sephora) 1. Hair Loss Treatment: ‘Divine Herbal’ - Hair Oil 2. Shampoo: 'Sephora Collection' - Deep Cleaning Shampoo 3. Face Mask: ‘Peter Thomas Roth’ – Pumpkin Enzyme Mask 4. Pigmentation + Anti-Aging Serum: ‘Divine Herbal’ - Facial Treatment Serum 5. Face Scrub: ‘Sisley' - Botanical Gentle Buffing Cream 6. Lip Balm: ‘Nuxe’ – Reve De Miel Lip Balm 7. Lip Liner: ‘Sephora Collection' - Rouge Gel Lip Liner

✨Context✨ I know a lot of people don't like this product. Out of all the products that The Ordinary provides for direct ascorbic acid, people seem to put this one lowest in terms of preference. I actually took this as a challenge to test out the product to really see if it is truly as bad as some people say. ✨My Experience✨ I truly have sensitive skin that can easily become irritated by products that are too strong. That being said, my skin has become retinized and tolerant to prescription tretinoin (direct retinoic acid). Based on that experience, I knew that my skin could take on actives such as direct Vitamin C. I've tried the 30% suspension in silicone previously. I didn't like that product just because I needed to use it at the last step of my routine and I ... More✨Context✨ I know a lot of people don't like this product. Out of all the products that The Ordinary provides for direct ascorbic acid, people seem to put this one lowest in terms of preference. I actually took this as a challenge to test out the product to really see if it is truly as bad as some people say. ✨My Experience✨ I truly have sensitive skin that can easily become irritated by products that are too strong. That being said, my skin has become retinized and tolerant to prescription tretinoin (direct retinoic acid). Based on that experience, I knew that my skin could take on actives such as direct Vitamin C. I've tried the 30% suspension in silicone previously. I didn't like that product just because I needed to use it at the last step of my routine and I wasn't sure how much would actually get through to the deeper layers of my skin. ✨My Impression✨ I do like this product because it doubles for me as a hyaluronic acid product - I don't have to buy a separate serum. I use it after my other serums and before moisturizers. I mix it into The Ordinary's Pycogenol and the Cosrx Snail Mucin Essence. I've noticed a significant skin brightening effect, as well as a mild skin firming effect. There is a mild tingling sensation upon application. I will repurchase.

I’ve been a die-hard fan of The Ordinary/Deciem for a while….not solely just because of the products, but, it was really the Founder, Brandon Truaxe that caught my attention respect. The way the media, most notably certain big named Magazines going at him relentlessly to the extent of publishing a “detailed timeline” of all of his “drama” just months before he took his own life, when he clearly needed understanding help instead of over the top ridicule was absolutely disgusting, that “detailed drama timeline” is still available online to this day. If only those same people at this publication that now scream about how important mental health is would’ve actually cared back then instead of documenting his every move we may not have lost a brilliant mind that wasn’t ... MoreI’ve been a die-hard fan of The Ordinary/Deciem for a while….not solely just because of the products, but, it was really the Founder, Brandon Truaxe that caught my attention respect. The way the media, most notably certain big named Magazines going at him relentlessly to the extent of publishing a “detailed timeline” of all of his “drama” just months before he took his own life, when he clearly needed understanding help instead of over the top ridicule was absolutely disgusting, that “detailed drama timeline” is still available online to this day. If only those same people at this publication that now scream about how important mental health is would’ve actually cared back then instead of documenting his every move we may not have lost a brilliant mind that wasn’t afraid of exposing the BS within the industry, being bluntly honest fully transparent, the thing everybody wants now days and is demanding. The Vitamin C (water silicone free) 23% + (dehydrated) HA Spheres 2% is one suspension I always keep in stock at home. The squeeze tube makes dispensing a breeze and it’s easy to control how much you want dispensed. Consider this to be more of a Serum than a moisturizer. This is one product you cannot afford to skip a thorough patch test with and by that I’m talking a good 72 hours just to be cautious you’re not going to have a delayed reaction. Some are thrown off by the texture with it being oily more specifically the grittiness…this is normal though due to the Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) powder used in the formula. If you’re not a fan of oiliness or a powdery texture you may not like this specific option, there is another option in silicone available for purchase. This suspension can be a little more tricky when it comes to placement in a routine, (usually apply this and let it fully dry down/absorb before following up with a thick moisturizer containing hydrating ingredients due to the HA in the suspension). Can give a slight tingle when first introducing into routine until your skin is getting acclimated (even if you use high concentrations of other actives do not underestimate this product skip a patch test). Slight tingling is considered “normal”, burning is not. I personally diluted this with a different serum or cream w/very simple, basic ingredients when I first started incorporating into my routine and gradually transitioned to applying the suspension by itself (I still only use this about once a week). I personally use this for combating any dark spots or hyperpigmentation since it’s done a great job fading those concerns for me as well as combating any overall dullness. The Ordinary recommends applying at night. I personally prefer applying this during the day when I’m not having to be outside during day light hours for long since I like applying other acids/ingredients at night. With the saying, a little goes a long way, this is absolutely true bc applying too much can cause this to feel extremely oily w/some insane pilling. This is one product that is definitely not for everyone and that’s ok. #theordinary #deciem #skincarerocks #serum #vitaminc #ha #hyaluronicacid #skincaretricks #hyperpigmentation #dullness #nightroutine #morningroutine #moisturizer #suspension #skincare #skincarehoarder #brightening #darkspots #sundamage #skincareaddict #skincareproducts

Clearly not for me, but maybe for someone else?

I have been meaning to write a review for this product for about a month now. Generally, I love The Ordinary. The products are straight to the point and have been good for my skin. However, this suspension is not it. I wanted to try this suspension after running out of an "okay" vitamin c serum. I've seen the comments about the grittiness of the cream which was close to my experience. I wouldn't describe it as "gritty," per se, but the product does clump and ball up on my face after each application. I always see white "flakes" all over my face after each use, even after using a moisturizer. The texture of my skin has also changed...but not in a good way. My skin, which is not as sensitive as it was during my teen years, feels like sandpaper now. The discoloration ... MoreI have been meaning to write a review for this product for about a month now. Generally, I love The Ordinary. The products are straight to the point and have been good for my skin. However, this suspension is not it. I wanted to try this suspension after running out of an "okay" vitamin c serum. I've seen the comments about the grittiness of the cream which was close to my experience. I wouldn't describe it as "gritty," per se, but the product does clump and ball up on my face after each application. I always see white "flakes" all over my face after each use, even after using a moisturizer. The texture of my skin has also changed...but not in a good way. My skin, which is not as sensitive as it was during my teen years, feels like sandpaper now. The discoloration has barely faded, and my skin looks ROUGH and is rough to the touch. I am wondering if the product's tendency to clump up and sit on my face, rather than absorb in my skin, is the reason why my skin texture now looks a hot mess. And a big "thank you" to the member that mentioned their nails turning orange after using this. Most of my nails (the ones that come in contact with my skincare products) have been orange for WEEKS and for the life of me, I could not understand why. I thought they were stained by tomatoes or something...it's chili season...but I didn't realize they became orange once I started using this product. It's white...so I thought nothing of it. At least I know what the potential culprit could be.

Excellent, given limitations of Vit C

Please read the Ordinary’s instructions for this before leaving a negative review: 1) this is not to be used in the daytime, so sunscreen pilling is irrelevant; 2) vitamin c is extremely unstable, so the grittiness of this formula is part and parcel to providing a stable formula 3) there are different types of C and this one is stated to likely cause redness and flushing on application; 4) C’s of all types have an *extremely short* shelf-life and brown-colored C is always bad (actually harmful)—throw it out! Ordinary (and other products) have shelf-life-once-opened icons on all products. This C is only 3 mo, which is why it’s such a bargain! It’s rare to have a product work as quickly as this does. When it’s fresh, it’s remarkable! Greasy, true: I use this and only ... MorePlease read the Ordinary’s instructions for this before leaving a negative review: 1) this is not to be used in the daytime, so sunscreen pilling is irrelevant; 2) vitamin c is extremely unstable, so the grittiness of this formula is part and parcel to providing a stable formula 3) there are different types of C and this one is stated to likely cause redness and flushing on application; 4) C’s of all types have an *extremely short* shelf-life and brown-colored C is always bad (actually harmful)—throw it out! Ordinary (and other products) have shelf-life-once-opened icons on all products. This C is only 3 mo, which is why it’s such a bargain! It’s rare to have a product work as quickly as this does. When it’s fresh, it’s remarkable! Greasy, true: I use this and only this at night (on nights I use C) And in the morning, voila! Noticeable improvement in texture and tone. Yes I change my pillow case frequently. I say, big deal against the results.

Hit & Miss

This pure Lascorbc acid, I tried the 10% one that's suspended in magnesium & got amazing results so braved myself for this & gave it a try. Lot of people have polarised opinions on this, some hate it because of how they're skin reacted to it & the other side loved it. That's the key here, it is a very good product but may or may not suit you. I have extremely sensitive, easily irritated, prone to redness skin, but because I loved the magnesium one I thought let's try. I was going to ease into it, use once a week only & they maybe, maybe twice a week. It didn't cause me immediate harm as I was careful but it didn't work for me the way the one suspended in magnesium did (boy that was phenomenal), but rather long term I realised I have darkened. What actually happened ... MoreThis pure Lascorbc acid, I tried the 10% one that's suspended in magnesium & got amazing results so braved myself for this & gave it a try. Lot of people have polarised opinions on this, some hate it because of how they're skin reacted to it & the other side loved it. That's the key here, it is a very good product but may or may not suit you. I have extremely sensitive, easily irritated, prone to redness skin, but because I loved the magnesium one I thought let's try. I was going to ease into it, use once a week only & they maybe, maybe twice a week. It didn't cause me immediate harm as I was careful but it didn't work for me the way the one suspended in magnesium did (boy that was phenomenal), but rather long term I realised I have darkened. What actually happened was it was too harsh for my sensitive skin, it reddened me ( almost maroon over a period of time) thus it seemed like I darkened. So do I recommend it, yes because the product isn't bad, it's how your skin will take to it, if it ends up suiting you'll get phenomenal results & vice versa. To be on the safer side try the one suspended in magnesium or the serum that has Alpha Arbutin too. I have spoken in detail about what are actives & what they do on my igtv channel @hajanders & spoken about The Ordinary's products too in length. Do check it out to learn more. Thank You.

Know how to use it and it will work wonders!!

I think this product has been unfairly misjudged and I have found it to be one of the most underrated, helpful products I have used in my skincare routine thus far. Like the Azaleic Acid 10% suspension, this 23% L Ascorbic Acid with HA spheres is ALSO a suspension. There is a learning curve to suspensions, and people don't realize that. They also buy these products without having a background with strong ingredient strengths and acids. It makes sense that a product would sting if your skin isn't accustomed to strong ingredients acids---it'a just the skin's response response what it isn't used to I find Deciem to supply professional skincare with no unnecessary and cost-for-no-reason frills. They ask people to buy intentionally based on the knowledge of what your ... MoreI think this product has been unfairly misjudged and I have found it to be one of the most underrated, helpful products I have used in my skincare routine thus far. Like the Azaleic Acid 10% suspension, this 23% L Ascorbic Acid with HA spheres is ALSO a suspension. There is a learning curve to suspensions, and people don't realize that. They also buy these products without having a background with strong ingredient strengths and acids. It makes sense that a product would sting if your skin isn't accustomed to strong ingredients acids---it'a just the skin's response response what it isn't used to I find Deciem to supply professional skincare with no unnecessary and cost-for-no-reason frills. They ask people to buy intentionally based on the knowledge of what your skin can handle and what it cannot, and basic research and knowledge of the ingredients they formulate with. My skin is used to strong acids, which is why it didn't take my skin long to get used to this percentage of the vitamin c suspension. Like the azaleic acid, don't rub it into the skin excessively or pilling is of course an option, though I have no experienced this with the vitamin c yet. I find the azaleic acid suspension and the L-Ascorbic Acid suspension to be anti-inflmmatory staples in my skincare routine and can't imagine my routine without them. The L-ascorbic Acid +Ha sphere suspension doesn't irritate my skin or dry it out--it is very gentle and hydrating as I am used to strong ingredients. I also am aware on what can be used with vit c and what cannot, so layering ingredients that are not meant to be used together can cause strong irritation. Do your research before you buy, Deciem's products are professional skincare meant to be used after research and knowledge of your skin is present beforehand. I can't imagine my routine without this product--it is a staple for me, and it strengthened my skin barrier dramatically from a disrupted barrier to a strong, non-sensitive one. I recommend you buy intentionally through research instead of recommendation, as what works for one's specific skin concerns may not work for yours as their skin is different from your own. As for the gritty texture, I didn't mind that much at all! A gritty texture can be expected as this suspension contain hyaluronic Acid SPHERES which are meant to dissolve when applied. The grittiness isn't disruptive and I find it doesn't last or stay gritty following application. I actually quite like that aspect of this product. With a moisturizer applied on top it wears well under makeup as well! Deciem, this is a keeper, keep this one around!! I thoroughly recommend this to all who know their skin well and what it can and can't handle, as well as what vitamin c can and can't be used with. I found this product too good to keep in the dark! I stocked up :,) Cheers!!

Much brighter skin

I have been using this product for over a year and it's one of my staples. The texture was a bit surprising at first, but after a bit of trial and error I got it... and wow. It definitely makes the skin brighter, more uniform in tone, a bit softer, and more elastic. Also, it's one of those products that, if you stop using, you notice in the mirror. I apply this on top of resveratrol and moisturizer. With this combination, it glides and it is better for sensitive skin. Then, I apply azelaic acid (technically not recommended, but for me... it works amazingly). I use this combination 3 times a week exclusively PM. I get complimented on my skin a lot, and I'm someone who had severe acne on my teenage years and now in my thirties. It's just an amazing product with a very ... MoreI have been using this product for over a year and it's one of my staples. The texture was a bit surprising at first, but after a bit of trial and error I got it... and wow. It definitely makes the skin brighter, more uniform in tone, a bit softer, and more elastic. Also, it's one of those products that, if you stop using, you notice in the mirror. I apply this on top of resveratrol and moisturizer. With this combination, it glides and it is better for sensitive skin. Then, I apply azelaic acid (technically not recommended, but for me... it works amazingly). I use this combination 3 times a week exclusively PM. I get complimented on my skin a lot, and I'm someone who had severe acne on my teenage years and now in my thirties. It's just an amazing product with a very high active concentration AND easy to apply (though you can definitely get it wrong). Please, please never discontinue this!!

Wake-up Feeling Beautiful

I will preface by saying I do not have sensitive skin and I have hyperpigmentation. I use this product before bed and WOW! The tiny spheres (gritty texture) is fine by me. I sprits my face with a liquid hyaluronic acid spray before applying this product. It dissolve the spheres instantly. Or I wet my fingertips after applying the product to dissolve the spheres instantly. It's really not a hassle. If I have a cut, the vitamin c will sting for a couple seconds. I don't mind. That's how I know it works. And let me tell you... I wake up to a brighter face. If I use any other products with Vitamin c, I will break out in these little burn bumps. So I recommend not using any more vitamin c. Also remember to wear sunblock during the day otherwise the brightening will be ... MoreI will preface by saying I do not have sensitive skin and I have hyperpigmentation. I use this product before bed and WOW! The tiny spheres (gritty texture) is fine by me. I sprits my face with a liquid hyaluronic acid spray before applying this product. It dissolve the spheres instantly. Or I wet my fingertips after applying the product to dissolve the spheres instantly. It's really not a hassle. If I have a cut, the vitamin c will sting for a couple seconds. I don't mind. That's how I know it works. And let me tell you... I wake up to a brighter face. If I use any other products with Vitamin c, I will break out in these little burn bumps. So I recommend not using any more vitamin c. Also remember to wear sunblock during the day otherwise the brightening will be undone and possibly get worse. That's why I use this at night only or days where I know I'm not going outside. Honestly, only using this at night is PLENTY. I will be keeping this product in my skin care routine permanently.

so annoyed this product has 3.9 stars out of 5

it deserves 5 ⭐️! all the low reviews are because of genuinely uninformed people who do not know what they’re buying even though it’s written in the instructions and description of the product. even just basic knowledge of how ascorbic acid/vitamin c works, would make all of the thing they complain about a no issue. ✅ the grittiness is due to it being a powder in a suspension. ✅ the oiliness is because of the squalane oil which is for god’s sake at the TOP of the ingredient list. ✅ absorbing slowly is because vitamin c notoriously absorbs slowly into the skin. ✅ vitamin c is notoriously known to be used at NIGHT not during daytime/morning and certainly not under your makeup. ✅ if you wish for a smoother feeling but the vitamin c silicone product they have rather ... Moreit deserves 5 ⭐️! all the low reviews are because of genuinely uninformed people who do not know what they’re buying even though it’s written in the instructions and description of the product. even just basic knowledge of how ascorbic acid/vitamin c works, would make all of the thing they complain about a no issue. ✅ the grittiness is due to it being a powder in a suspension. ✅ the oiliness is because of the squalane oil which is for god’s sake at the TOP of the ingredient list. ✅ absorbing slowly is because vitamin c notoriously absorbs slowly into the skin. ✅ vitamin c is notoriously known to be used at NIGHT not during daytime/morning and certainly not under your makeup. ✅ if you wish for a smoother feeling but the vitamin c silicone product they have rather than this one (i prefer this one) ✅ the tingliness is due to the fact that this product has a HIGH concentration of vitamin c. if this is your first time using an actual vitamin c serum (ASCORBIC ACID) then start at a lower percentage (5%-8%). if you start at 20% and you get an irritation reaction you really only have yourself to blame. ✅ this brand is not a brand that makes “miracle products” hit a brand that makes products that works. that also means you need to know your shtick when dealing with skincare; what does what and why. then all of this won’t be confusing at all. ✅ vitamin c oxidizes really fast thus why most vitamin c serums on the market are a scam. you’re buying a product that has an expired and oxidized active ingredient. it certainly won’t cause any irritation since the active ingredient is INERT at that point. ✅ it’s packaged the way it’s packaged BECAUSE REAL VITAMIN C (ascorbic acid) should come in contact with air and sun as least as possible. so the tube is the best delivery method besides a pump. ✅ and last but not least, check your sellers for authenticity!!!!! but from Deciem themselves to make sure you get the real deal; some sellers, not all, will dilute the products or mix them with other stuff and what you may have gotten may not be the real product. ☀️ and finally, Your Mileage May Vary. sometimes a product just may not work for you for a reason or another even if it’s formulated correctly and on paper all looks good. that is NOT a product’s fault. i do find that that is rarely the case, or at least more often not user error plays an important role. (save for sensitivities and allergies, which if you do have well you know to steer clear from certain ingredients already) PLEASE stop rating this incredible product low and get more knowledgeable about skincare and what you’re putting on your face. it’s fun. you get real results from your skincare and won’t be a victim of marketing and advertising anymore. this product is simply put one of the best products on the market for reaping the benefits of the famous “vitamin c”. as a side note, i have used this product and it goes without saying that i loved it. i’ve liked it before even buying it due to it’s sexy ingredient list. it’s on par and even better than some of the more expensive ones on the market (looking at you skinceuticals). so stop whining and get a grip and know what you’re doing, instead of throwing random $h!t at the wall and hoping it sticks! ✅stellar product!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️