Vitamin C
Vitamin C serums compared by form (L-ascorbic acid or derivative), stated percentage, base and price, using published research on pH and stability.
Every page here lists each product’s brand-stated actives and full ingredient list, and links the dermatology sources behind the advice. Not sure where to start? Match products to your skin.
Head-to-head: bottle vs bottle
The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% vs SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Both are pure L-ascorbic acid. The Ordinary suspends 23% in a water-free base for $8.10 and warns it tingles; SkinCeuticals pairs 15% with vitamin E and ferulic acid, the combination tested in a 2005 peer-reviewed study, at a much higher price.
ComparisonThe Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% vs Vitamin C Suspension 23%
Same brand, opposite approaches. Ascorbyl Glucoside 12% is a water-based derivative the brand calls lower in irritation potential but less potent; Vitamin C Suspension 23% is pure L-ascorbic acid in a water-free base that the brand says will tingle.