Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-based hydrating serum featuring 2% multi-weight hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) to deliver multi-depth hydration, plump fine lines, and strengthen the skin barrier — all at an unbeatable price point.
Multi-Depth Hydration
Five forms of hyaluronic acid (low, medium, high molecular weight, crosspolymer, and hydrolyzed HA) target multiple skin layers for comprehensive hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-Depth Hydration
Five forms of hyaluronic acid (low, medium, high molecular weight, crosspolymer, and hydrolyzed HA) target multiple skin layers for comprehensive hydration.
Barrier Strengthening
Pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) supports the formation of ceramides and fatty acids, reinforcing the skin's natural moisture barrier over time.
Ceramide & Lipid Support
The reformulated version includes phospholipids and sphingolipids that mimic skin's natural lipid structure to help lock in moisture and reduce transepidermal water loss.
Plumping & Smoothing
HA can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, visibly plumping fine lines and giving skin a smoother, more youthful appearance with consistent use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hyaluronic acid and panthenol are widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists.
The reformulated version contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that may feed malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne, patch test first or consider the original formulation which was fully FA-safe.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Rated non-comedogenic. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Free from fragrance, drying alcohols, sulfates, and common allergens. pH balanced at 6.5–7.5, close to skin's natural pH. Panthenol provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
Pairs well with vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, AHAs, BHAs, peptides, and squalane. One of the most versatile serums to layer in any routine.
In very dry or arid environments, HA can draw moisture out of skin instead of from the air. Always apply to damp skin or layer a moisturizer on top to seal in hydration.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Multi-Weight) 2%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, delivered in low, medium, and high molecular weights. Larger molecules form a hydrating film on the skin's surface, while smaller molecules penetrate deeper to plump from within.
- Mechanism: Humectant that binds up to 1,000x its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin
- Clinical data: Multiple studies confirm topical HA improves skin hydration, elasticity, and reduces wrinkle depth
- Molecular range: High MW (surface hydration), Medium MW (mid-layer), Low MW (deeper penetration)
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer Included in 2%Proven
A next-generation form of HA with a cross-linked structure that provides longer-lasting hydration compared to standard sodium hyaluronate. It creates a moisture-retaining mesh on the skin's surface.
- Advantage: More sustained hydration effect due to its cross-linked molecular structure
- Texture benefit: Helps improve the serum's feel on skin and enhances spreadability
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Included in 2%Proven
The smallest molecular weight form of HA, created by breaking down standard hyaluronic acid. Its tiny size allows it to penetrate deeper into the epidermis for hydration below the surface.
- Penetration: Low molecular weight HA has been shown to reach deeper epidermal layers
- Elasticity: Studies link low MW HA with improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) SupportingProven
A well-researched humectant and skin-soothing agent. Once absorbed, panthenol converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), which supports barrier repair and wound healing.
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant, drawing and retaining moisture in the skin
- Barrier support: Promotes production of ceramides and fatty acids essential for a healthy skin barrier
- Anti-inflammatory: Clinically shown to reduce redness and irritation
Phospholipids & Sphingolipids SupportingPromising
Skin-identical lipids that make up approximately 75% of all cell membranes. They help repair and maintain the skin barrier by mimicking the skin's own natural lipid structure.
- Barrier repair: Reinforces the lipid matrix between skin cells to reduce water loss
- Delivery system: Phospholipids can form liposomes that enhance absorption of other actives
Ahnfeltiopsis Concinna Extract SupportingPromising
A marine red algae extract that provides antioxidant protection and additional soothing benefits. Helps protect skin from environmental free radicals like pollution and UV damage.
- Antioxidant: Fights free radicals that can accelerate skin aging
- Soothing: Helps calm irritated skin and reduce redness
23 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Sodium Hyaluronate, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids, Panthenol, Ahnfeltiopsis Concinna Extract, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, P-Anisic Acid, Tocopherol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based toners and before heavier serums, oils, or creams. Use in both AM and PM routines. Layer from thinnest to thickest consistency.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean face. Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
Apply to Damp Skin (Optional)
For an immediate hydration boost, mist your face with water or toner first. The Ordinary confirms the serum works equally well on dry skin long-term.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Use the glass dropper to place a few drops onto your fingertips. A small amount goes a long way — you only need enough to cover the face and neck.
Gently Press Into Skin
Pat and press the serum into your skin using your fingertips. Avoid rubbing — gentle pressing helps the serum absorb effectively.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always seal in the hydration with a moisturizer or face oil on top. This step is crucial — it prevents the HA from evaporating and locks moisture into your skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated skin that lacks plumpness and looks dull
- You want a simple, no-frills hydrating serum at an affordable price
- You need a gentle product safe for pregnancy or sensitive skin
- You want to layer under retinol, vitamin C, or other actives
- You're a skincare beginner looking for a first serum
- You want to minimize the appearance of fine lines through hydration
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne — the reformulated version contains Polysorbate 20
- You live in a very dry or arid climate and don't layer moisturizer on top
- You need anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides — this is hydration only
- You dislike slightly viscous textures (though the reformulation is much improved)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Provides hydration without heaviness.
Delivers excellent hydration but very dry skin will need a richer moisturizer or oil on top to seal in moisture and prevent water loss.
Balances well across different face zones — hydrates dry patches without overwhelming oily areas. Ideal for this skin type.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and packed with soothing panthenol. HA is biocompatible and rarely causes irritation. Great for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. However, those with fungal acne should note the Polysorbate 20 content. Patch test recommended.
Multi-weight HA plumps fine lines effectively. Best paired with anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides for comprehensive results.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Instant Hydration & Plumpness
Skin feels hydrated and looks visibly plumper right after application. The HA draws moisture to the skin's surface for an immediate dewy glow.
90% noticed instantlySmoother, Softer Texture
Skin texture begins to feel noticeably smoother and softer. Dehydration flakes reduce and makeup applies more evenly. Hydration levels increase continually.
80% noticed improvementReduced Fine Lines & Better Elasticity
Consistent hydration starts plumping out fine dehydration lines. Skin feels bouncier and more resilient. The moisture barrier begins to strengthen.
70% noticed improvementSustained Plumpness & Barrier Strength
Lines and wrinkles appear visibly smoothed. Nasolabial folds look plumper. The skin barrier is more robust, leading to less transepidermal water loss and healthier-looking skin overall.
65% noticed significant changeRatings by platform
82K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — clinical-grade hydration under $10
- Five forms of HA for multi-depth hydration
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fragrance-free, minimal ingredient list
- Pairs well with virtually all other actives
- Immediate visible plumping effect
- Reformulated version has much less stickiness
- Suitable for nearly all skin types
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Criticized
- Reformulated version contains Polysorbate 20 (not fully fungal acne safe)
- 30ml bottle is small for twice-daily use
- Can pill under makeup if too much is applied
- May feel drying in very arid climates without moisturizer
- Glass dropper bottle is fragile for travel
- No additional anti-aging actives (hydration only)
- Slight learning curve on how much product to use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar affordable HA serum with 2% concentration. Uses fewer molecular weights of HA (primarily medium and low). Slightly thinner consistency and faster absorption, but less comprehensive multi-depth hydration.
Includes ceramides and MVE technology for sustained delivery. More moisturizing overall, but fewer HA molecular weights. Contains fragrance-free formula with added vitamin B5 and ceramide complex.
Drugstore-accessible option with HA and vitamin E beads. Only one form of HA versus five in The Ordinary. Gel texture absorbs fast but less sophisticated multi-depth approach. Good starter option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is not necessary but can provide a soothing cooling effect upon application.
Glass dropper bottle with recyclable packaging. The tinted glass helps protect the formula from light degradation.
Yes — 30 ml is under the 100 ml carry-on limit. However, the glass bottle is fragile; consider a protective case for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body and is widely considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Panthenol (vitamin B5) is also regarded as safe. As always, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
The reformulated version (with Ceramides) contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that may feed malassezia yeast and potentially aggravate fungal acne. The original formulation was considered fully fungal acne safe. If you are prone to fungal acne, patch test first or seek out the original formulation if still available. Monitor your skin closely for any flare-ups.
Yes — this serum is one of the most compatible products in any skincare routine. It layers beautifully under retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, and peptides. It can even help buffer the dryness caused by strong actives like retinol. Apply it before your treatment serums for a hydrated base, or after acids to soothe and replenish moisture.
This serum works well for virtually all skin types. It is especially excellent for oily, combination, and sensitive skin due to its lightweight, oil-free, fragrance-free formula. Dry skin types benefit from it too but should always follow with a rich moisturizer or oil to seal in the hydration. Mature skin types can layer it under anti-aging treatments for added plumping.
You should see immediate plumping and hydration right after the first application. Improved skin texture and softness typically become noticeable within 1 week of consistent use. By week 4, you may notice visibly smoothed fine lines, plumper nasolabial folds, and a stronger moisture barrier. Consistency is key — use it morning and evening for best results.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier treatments, moisturizers, and oils. The general rule is to layer from thinnest to thickest consistency. This serum sits at step 3 in a typical routine: Cleanser, Toner, HA Serum, Treatment Serum, Moisturizer, Sunscreen (AM). Use it in both your morning and evening routines.
No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known comedogenic ingredients. The Ordinary labels it as non-comedogenic. It is suitable for acne-prone skin, though those with fungal acne should note the Polysorbate 20 in the reformulated version.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use the product within one year for optimal efficacy. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use (2–3 drops per application). If you notice any change in color, texture, or smell, discard the product even if it is within the 12-month window.
Verdict: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 remains one of the best value hydrating serums on the market. With five forms of hyaluronic acid, pro-vitamin B5, and added lipid support in the reformulated version, it delivers clinical-grade multi-depth hydration at a fraction of the price of luxury competitors. The reformulated texture is a significant improvement — less sticky, faster absorbing, and more elegant under makeup. Minor drawbacks include the Polysorbate 20 for fungal acne sufferers and the need to always seal with a moisturizer. For under $10, this is an essential staple in any skincare routine, from complete beginners to advanced enthusiasts.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|