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The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23%

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23%

ascorbic acid

CosmeticThe Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23%
Reviewed by Dr. Younghun Cho
78/100
Good

Reviewed by Dr. Younghun Cho, PharmD

The score is high due to the product's potent, evidence-based formula and unbeatable price, but it loses points for its challenging texture and high potential for irritation.

Pharmacist's Verdict

This is a powerful and incredibly affordable Vitamin C serum that delivers real brightening results, but its gritty texture and high potential for irritation make it best for experienced skincare users with tolerant skin.

Ingredient Analysis

Ascorbic Acid (23%)

Details pending pharmacist review.

Dehydrated Hyaluronic Acid Spheres

Details pending pharmacist review.

Squalane

Details pending pharmacist review.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Contains a very high and effective 23% concentration of L-Ascorbic Acid, the most proven form of Vitamin C.
  • The water-free formula helps keep the Vitamin C stable, so it works better for longer.
  • Noticeably brightens skin tone, fades dark spots, and provides antioxidant protection.
  • Extremely budget-friendly, offering a potent active ingredient at a fraction of the cost of competitors.

Cons

  • Has a noticeably gritty, sandy texture because the Vitamin C is suspended, not dissolved.
  • High strength can cause stinging, redness, and irritation, especially on sensitive skin or for new users.
  • Can feel oily and may not layer well with other skincare or makeup, sometimes causing pilling.
  • The packaging (a tube) can expose the product to air, causing it to oxidize (go bad) faster.

References

  1. 1.
    FDA Drug Label — Allergies

    FDA DailyMed: Allergies · FDA

  2. 2.
    Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold.

    Hemilä H, Chalker E, The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2013 · PubMed

  3. 3.
    Ascorbic acid as antioxidant.

    Gęgotek A, Skrzydlewska E, Vitamins and hormones, 2023 · PubMed

  4. 4.
    Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.

    Hemilä H, Chalker E, BMC public health, 2023 · PubMed

  5. 5.
    Antioxidant vitamins supplementation reduce endometriosis related pelvic pain in humans: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    Zheng SH, Chen XX, Chen Y, et al., Reproductive biology and endocrinology : RB&E, 2023 · PubMed

  6. 6.
    Vitamin C and E antioxidant supplementation may significantly reduce pain symptoms in endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

    Bayu P, Wibisono JJ, PloS one, 2024 · PubMed

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