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

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/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 sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate brightening for your normal skin due to the high concentration of Ascorbic Acid, which is effective for evening skin tone, though it may not directly address your redness and irritation concerns.
- Sodium Hyaluronate provides hydration, which is a general skincare benefit, but it is not specifically targeted towards your primary concerns.
- The product is generally safe for your sensitive skin, with a low risk of irritation from Ascorbic Acid.

## 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 (this page)
- [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
- [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 sensitive skin better

- Topical application of TAT-SOD significantly suppresses UVB-induced erythema formation, blood flow rise, and apoptotic sunburn cell formation in human volunteers compared to a vehicle control. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27460952/))

## 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 your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% work for sensitive skin?

This product works moderately well for sensitive skin, offering brightening and hydration while carrying a low risk of irritation, though it may not help with redness. A treatment of this type for sensitive skin needs soothing and repairing ingredients that calm redness and irritation while remaining gentle and free of allergens.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

This treatment is an average fit for your sensitive skin because Ascorbic Acid offers moderate brightening, though it may not directly address your redness and irritation. Treatments that fit sensitive skin better need ingredients that calm redness and irritation, provide antioxidants, and are free of allergens.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out fine lines, and fade dark spots. Clinical studies show it is generally safe and well-tolerated when improving overall skin quality.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps calm and hydrate sensitive skin while improving skin barrier strength and reducing dryness and redness. It is generally well-tolerated and may enhance overall skin comfort and texture.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29356277/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41037531/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. Treatments with active ingredients are placed here for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. Products of this type for sensitive skin need calming and hydrating ingredients that soothe redness while brightening the skin.

### 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. This helps reduce any tingling while keeping your skin calm.

### How often should I use this treatment?

You can use this treatment once a week in the evening, as this is how Lovi routines start exfoliating steps. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. To better fit sensitive skin, a treatment of this type needs calming ingredients and soothing hydrators that target redness and irritation.

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

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause purging, but it may cause stinging and irritation on sensitive skin due to its high vitamin C strength and gritty texture. A product of this type for sensitive skin needs soothing ingredients and a smooth base to prevent irritation and breakouts.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $53.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — $25.08 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [innisfree Daily Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/daily-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.00 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/sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2/for/sensitive-skin