THE BRAND: This is an analysis of The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% with HA Spheres 2%. I have been searching for a Vitamin C product that is potent enough to positively impact skin and accessible enough that it won’t break the bank. This is where DECIEM comes in! They have high performing, no-nonsense skincare products at affordable prices and these products are gender neutral.
HOW IT WORKS: There is incredible evidence of the efficacy of L-Ascorbic Acid for the skin. L-Ascorbic Acid is the most natural form of Vitamin C and when topically applied, it has great antioxidant properties. It neutralises free radicals in the skin, increases collagen production to help cell turnover, thus keeping skin firm and resilient. Some research has shown that it can reverse signs of ageing, fade dark pigmentation, melasma, and sun damage.
It is great for all skin types. Pigmentation and signs of ageing may not appear until your thirties, but it’s a good idea to start using Vitamin C from eighteen years old. Vitamin C is has a multitude of actions for topical and internal use.
WHAT’S INSIDE: As the box states, this is water-free so this reduces the risk of the Ascorbic acid de-stablising and oxidising. It is also Silicone-free and whilst Silicone aids in the ease-of-application of the product, there is some research to show that the molecular structure acts as a net which suspends the Vitamin C particles, thereby not allowing enough exposure to the skin.
HOW TO USE: In the evening, use a small pea-sized amount on the back of your hand or in the palm of your hand, then pat it into your skin gently. It feels like a physical exfoliant upon application – very gritty and greasy on the skin. This is due to the L-Ascorbic Acid powder, and the liquid is dehydrated Hyaluronic Acid spheres. The hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin, thus prepping it for effective absorption of the Vitamin C.
I like to apply it and leave it for 5 minutes before applying any other favourite serums or moisturisers. Other nights, I will just leave it on by itself. The trick is not to rub and massage it through your skin like other products. I like to pat it into my skin gently to allow the product to come into maximum contact with my skin, rather than sweeping it around. It does feel as though it sits on the surface of the skin and has a greasy finish. This makes it nearly impossible to use during the day. Perhaps a product with a lower concentration of Vitamin C (10%-15%) is better for the day time and using with SPF and makeup.
Ensure you shake the tube well before opening, and be careful when dispensing the product as it has a low viscosity and may easily pour out.
Gritty/Grainy powder in a milky-white, runny suspension
PRECAUTIONS: Expect some burning sensations and possible red patches of sensitivity. It’s not the most elegant form of application, especially for those like me with sensitive skin. I experienced some itching sensations and some burning on my cheeks and around my nose. It’s not unbearable, but it can be irritating. Personally, I don’t mind the tingling sensation and your skin adapts to it in a matter of weeks. However, I experienced some red spots and itchiness in my cheeks from this product. I assume if the dose of Vitamin C is too high or the product oxidises, this can have an adverse effect.
It’s a great product because it is so affordable, accessible and has such a potent and high percentage of Vitamin C, but it may need to be diluted to become more usable. You could add a Hyaluronic acid serum to this, to help with the application and to make it feel more comfortable on the skin. Don’t be scared, just see how your skin reacts to it and if you can’t deal with the burn, add something on top of it. Add it to your favourite moisturiser or serum. Products containing Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E would mix nicely and provide a lovely antioxidant boost!
The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
PROS:
CONS:
CONCLUSION: Overall, I’m not loving the way the product feels on the skin upon application, or the tingling sensation and occasional red spots and itchiness. Mixing it with other products helps soothe the skin, but inconclusive about how effective the Ascorbic acid is when mixed with other products. The price is right, but looking at the efficacy, I would not repurchase this. Buy this, try this, mix it and see if it works for you. Vitamin C is great for targeting brown spots from sun damage, irregular pigmentation, or redness from breakouts and hormonal changes.
Rating 4/10.
I’d like to try The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% and compare the products to see which is best for brightening and improving skin tone. What are your favourite DECIEM products? The company does not send out samples, so I’d love to know any of your recommendations.
Do you have any fave Vitamin C products? I’m still on the hunt for an affordable Vitamin C serum or moisturiser. Leave a comment and let me know.
E L I S E ?
