# The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for dry sensitive skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening and smoothing for your dry and sensitive skin due to 23% Ascorbic Acid, which is effective for improving skin tone and reducing fine lines, though it may cause some irritation.
- Sodium Hyaluronate provides humectant action for your dry skin, but the formula lacks sufficient emollient ingredients like Squalane to fully address dryness.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid Spheres, Squalane, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Glucomannan

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Glucomannan isolated from Candida utilis suppressed UVB-induced decreases in keratinocyte viability and apoptosis in vitro, and decreased UV-induced skin erythema formation in human volunteers in vivo. ([Carbohydrate Research, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18067882/))
- A novel Konjac glucomannan/silver nanoparticle composite sponge exhibited good antibacterial activity and effectively accelerated wound healing, promoted fibroblast growth, and accelerated epithelialization in animal models while demonstrating good cytocompatibility with L929 cells. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29352894/))
- Carboxymethyl konjac glucomannan-chitosan composite sponges possessed high swelling ratio, proper water vapor transmission rate, and good biocompatibility, and effectively healed full-layer skin defect wounds in male ICR mice compared to untreated conditions. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29454058/))

## Why other serums fit dry sensitive skin better

- A formulation containing glycerol (5%) and xylitol (5%) applied twice daily for 14 days increased skin hydration, filaggrin protein quantity, interdigitation index, and biomechanical properties, and decreased transepidermal water loss compared to untreated and vehicle-treated skin in twelve volunteers with dry skin. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/))
- Glycerol accelerates barrier repair and improves stratum corneum hydration compared to untreated and base-treated sites. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is widely polarized; users with resilient skin praise its high potency for rapidly fading hyperpigmentation and brightening dull complexions at an unbeatable price. A significant number of reviewers find the gritty, sandy texture and strong stinging sensation unpleasant, often deeming it unsuitable for sensitive skin or daytime use.

- Liked: Affordable price (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Gritty texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades dark spots (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Stinging and irritation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Greasy finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pilling issues (sometimes noted)

## How to apply

- Use this PM routine for your evening skincare. Start using the serum 3 times a week and increase to daily use if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer. This step locks in deep hydration for dry skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin using your palms. Let it absorb completely for a minute ⏱ before applying your next product.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the serum on completely dry skin for better tolerance and less irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Always do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% a weak match for dry sensitive skin?

This product is a weak match for your dry sensitive skin because the high amount of vitamin C may cause irritation, and the formula lacks enough rich oils and moisturizers to fully soothe dry areas. A product of this type needs gentle hydrating ingredients and soothing oils that provide deep moisture and protect the skin barrier without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a poor fit for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment is a weak match because its high level of 23% Ascorbic Acid may easily cause irritation on sensitive skin, and it lacks enough smoothing and softening ingredients to fully address dryness. A product of this type needs rich moisturizing components and skin barrier support to properly hydrate and protect dry sensitive skin without any risks of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Vitamin C do for dry sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten and smooth dry sensitive skin while reducing wrinkles and improving elasticity. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation when properly formulated, leaving the skin looking more radiant.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Antioxidants, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38397772/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps boost skin hydration and smooth dryness while calming sensitive skin. It is unlikely to cause irritation and maintains a very good safety profile for delicate skin types.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33116738/)

### Where does this treatment go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine before your moisturizer. Dry and sensitive skin needs treatments that combine gentle brightening ingredients with plenty of rich, soothing oils and hydrating helpers to prevent dryness and irritation.

### Can I use this treatment with niacinamide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with niacinamide by applying niacinamide first and waiting a few minutes before putting on this vitamin C product. Using them together may help brighten your skin and smooth out fine lines, though combining potent actives can sometimes trigger irritation on dry, sensitive skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is included in the evening routine once a week to start, as high-strength vitamin C can easily irritate delicate skin. If your skin feels comfortable and shows good results over time, you may carefully use it more often. To properly care for dry and sensitive skin, this type of product needs extra soothing oils and rich moisturizers that deeply relieve dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Can this treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry sensitive skin, but it may cause stinging and irritation due to the high strength of Ascorbic Acid. A product of this type needs soothing and softening ingredients along with rich moisturizers to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.

### Is this treatment fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $8.10 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y556CPP?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Squalane, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Coconut Alkanes, Ethylene Propylene Styrene Copolymer, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glucomannan, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Butylene Ethylene Styrene Copolymer, Acrylates Ethylhexyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Trihydroxystearin, Bht
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin