The short version
The short version of this review
The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% suspends 23% L-ascorbic acid in a water-free base with hyaluronic acid spheres. The brand describes a slightly granular texture, expected tingling and once-daily use, ideally in the evening. It cost £7.70 for 30ml on The Ordinary UK on 25 September 2026.
Product information reviewed 2026-09-25.
01 / The basics
What is Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%?
The Ordinary suspends 23% L-ascorbic acid with hyaluronic acid spheres in a water-free base; the brand describes a slightly granular texture, says to expect tingling and directs once-daily use, ideally in the evening, with SPF by day.
- Best for
- High-strength L-ascorbic acid for evening use
02 / Review
What is in Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%?
The Ordinary suspends 23% L-ascorbic acid in a water-free base with hyaluronic acid spheres. Keeping water out is a stability strategy: L-ascorbic acid degrades quickly in water.
The concentration is higher than most serums. Research summarised by Telang (2013) suggests benefits from L-ascorbic acid rise with concentration only up to about 20%, so the extra strength is not automatically extra benefit.
03 / Review
Who is Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% best for?
Budget-conscious readers who want L-ascorbic acid and can accommodate an evening step with a gritty texture.
04 / Review
What should you check before buying?
The brand warns of tingling and suggests it can be diluted; patch test first. It is directed for evening use, so it does not fit a morning antioxidant routine. Check the list of ingredients The Ordinary says not to combine it with, including niacinamide and retinoids.
05 / How to use it
How should you use Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%?
- 01Patch test before first use
- 02Apply once a day, ideally in the evening, after cleansing
- 03Do not combine with the ingredients the brand lists, including niacinamide and retinoids
- 04Use sunscreen during the day
06 / Quick facts
What should you know before choosing Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%?
- —23% L-ascorbic acid with hyaluronic acid spheres in a water-free base; 30ml
- —£7.70 on The Ordinary UK (25 September 2026)
- —The brand describes a slightly granular texture that takes a few seconds to absorb, and expected tingling
- —Once daily, ideally in the evening; SPF by day
- —Not to be used with copper peptides, direct acids, niacinamide, peptides, retinoids or other direct vitamin C, per the brand
- —Alcohol-free, silicone-free and vegan; no fragrance on the ingredient list