The derivative in this formula is more stable than ascorbic acid so it doesn't need stabilizing agents that I'd otherwise want to see. Plus it's an oil-based serum which would improve bioavailability.
Lactic acid is a slightly larger molecule than glycolic; thus, it won't penetrate the skin as deeply, and it will be more gentle. Best to start low and slow if you're new to acids.
It depends on a few things: the issue you're trying to target and your skin type
Mandelic is super gentle and lipophilic; it's better for people that have sensitive skin and are acne prone
Lactic is intermediary; it's better for people newer to acids that want the exfoliating and anti-aging benefits of an AHA without being too harsh (but it has kind of a weird smell IMO)
Glycolic is strong and good for building collagen; it's better for people that want to use it for anti-aging purposes, on their bodies instead of their faces, OR who don't like the smell of lactic acid
Are there any benefits to using a Vit C serum over a suspension?
I’m currently using this: https://theordinary.com/en-us/vitamin-c-suspension-30-in-silicone-vitamin-c-100452.html
(I used to use this https://theordinary.com/en-us/vitamin-c-suspension-23-ha-spheres-2-vitamin-c-100451.html but it came with a lot of “tingling” and slight irritation).
I don't love any of the delivery methods in The Ordinary's Vitamin C options. The best one in my opinion is this one: https://theordinary.com/en-us/ascorbyl-tetraisopalmitate-solution-20-in-vitamin-f-vitamin-c-100406.html
The derivative in this formula is more stable than ascorbic acid so it doesn't need stabilizing agents that I'd otherwise want to see. Plus it's an oil-based serum which would improve bioavailability.
Thank you for looking into it Stacy.
So do you have a preference for serum > suspensions due to the increased bio-availability?
Curious about lactic acid vs. glycolic acid??? Why prefer the former over the latter?
Lactic acid is a slightly larger molecule than glycolic; thus, it won't penetrate the skin as deeply, and it will be more gentle. Best to start low and slow if you're new to acids.
Good point. Thank you!
Reading all of your articles, is it a fair strategy to start with Mandelic move to Lactic then Glycolic? (with intermediary steps 5% > 10%).
Or do you cycle them once you get to Lactic / Glycolic?
It depends on a few things: the issue you're trying to target and your skin type
Mandelic is super gentle and lipophilic; it's better for people that have sensitive skin and are acne prone
Lactic is intermediary; it's better for people newer to acids that want the exfoliating and anti-aging benefits of an AHA without being too harsh (but it has kind of a weird smell IMO)
Glycolic is strong and good for building collagen; it's better for people that want to use it for anti-aging purposes, on their bodies instead of their faces, OR who don't like the smell of lactic acid
Does that make sense?