The skincare industry can often be a labyrinth of confusion for consumers. With a plethora of products on the market, each boasting a myriad of health claims, it can be challenging to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make bold assertions about their skincare products, promising transformative results. However, these claims can sometimes be greatly exaggerated, leaving consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed.

It is therefore crucial to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value without investigating the ingredients and their efficacy can lead to disappointment. In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% by The Ordinary. This popular Vitamin C Serum has garnered a significant following, but does it live up to its claims?

We will be examining the claims made about this product, comparing them to the ingredients used within the product, and performing a truth assessment. This will help us establish whether or not the product really will live up to its promises.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into the main claims being made about this product and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Uses Direct Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid to Help Visibly Reduce Signs of Aging

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Vitamin C Suspension 23% in HA Spheres uses direct vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to help visibly reduce signs of aging…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Ascorbic Acid, which is a form of Vitamin C, and Sodium Hyaluronate, which is a form of Hyaluronic Acid. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help to fight free radicals that cause signs of aging. It also boosts collagen production, which can help to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture. Hyaluronic Acid is a powerful humectant that can attract and hold onto a large amount of moisture, which can help to hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Claim #2: The Product Brightens and Balances Uneven Skin Tone

The Ordinary’s Website States: “…by brightening and balancing uneven skin tone.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Vitamin C, or Ascorbic Acid, is known for its ability to brighten the skin and even out skin tone. It can inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, which helps to prevent melanin production and can reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Therefore, this claim is true based on the ingredients used in the formula.

Claim #3: The Product Provides 23% Pure L-Ascorbic Acid Which Remains Completely Stable Due to the Absence of Water

The Ordinary’s Website States: “This water-free formula provides 23% pure L-Ascorbic Acid which remains completely stable due to the absence of water.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Ascorbic Acid is indeed a form of Vitamin C and the product does not contain water, which can cause Vitamin C to degrade and lose its effectiveness. Therefore, the claim that the product provides a stable form of Vitamin C due to the absence of water is true.

Claim #4: The Product is Supported with Spheres of Hyaluronic Acid for Added Hydration

The Ordinary’s Website States: “What’s more, this water-free formula is supported with spheres of hyaluronic acid for added hydration.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of Hyaluronic Acid, is listed in the ingredients. Hyaluronic Acid is known for its ability to retain moisture, which can help to hydrate the skin and improve its overall appearance. Therefore, the claim that the product contains Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 10/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Highly likely

The Ordinary’s Vitamin C Suspension 23% in HA Spheres appears to be highly truthful in its claims. Each claim made by the brand is supported by the product’s ingredient list and the known benefits of those ingredients. However, it’s important to remember that skincare is highly individual, and what works for one person may not work for another. While the product contains ingredients known to provide the benefits claimed, individual results may vary.

It’s also worth noting that this assessment assumes all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are in weight order, meaning the first ingredient listed is the most abundant in the formula, and the last ingredient listed is the least abundant. However, this doesn’t tell us the exact concentration of each ingredient. For example, a product could contain 1% of an ingredient or 0.01% of an ingredient, and both would be listed last on the ingredient list. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to do your own research and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.

Remember, not all skincare claims are created equal. Some brands may make exaggerated claims about their products’ benefits without the science to back it up. Always do your research, read reviews, and consult with a dermatologist if you’re unsure. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.