The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum 30ML
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a water-based hydrating serum formulated to replenish moisture and improve the appearance of dry, dehydrated and rough-feeling skin. The original formulation combines four types of hyaluronic acid with pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) to support hydration at different levels of the skin's surface while helping the skin feel smoother and more supple.
Hyaluronic acid is a water-binding ingredient that helps attract and retain moisture, while vitamin B5 supports the skin's moisture barrier and helps improve moisture retention. The combination makes this serum a practical hydration step for skin that feels tight, dry or lacking suppleness.
The original formulation has a richer serum texture compared with The Ordinary's newer Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides. It is still water-based, oil-free, alcohol-free and silicone-free, and The Ordinary lists it as suitable for all skin types.
Explore more products through Roop Singhar's The Ordinary Collection, Serum Collection, or Women's Skin Care Collection.
Key Benefits
- Provides hydration to dry and dehydrated skin
- Helps skin feel smoother and softer
- Supports the skin's moisture barrier
- Helps improve the appearance of skin suppleness and plumpness
- Contains four forms of hyaluronic acid
- Contains pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol)
- Water-based formula
- Oil-free, alcohol-free and silicone-free
- Suitable for all skin types according to The Ordinary
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Key Ingredients
Hyaluronic Acid
The formula uses four types of hyaluronic acid, including different molecular weights and a hyaluronic acid crosspolymer. These forms work across different levels of the skin's surface to support hydration and give skin a smoother, more supple appearance.
Pro-Vitamin B5
Also known as panthenol, vitamin B5 supports the formation of skin-barrier components and helps the skin retain moisture.
What Does The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Do?
This is primarily a hydrating serum, rather than a treatment designed around one specific concern such as pigmentation or acne.
It is particularly useful when skin feels:
- Dry
- Dehydrated
- Tight after cleansing
- Rough or lacking softness
- Less plump or supple than usual
By improving hydration, the serum can also make fine dry lines appear less noticeable. However, it should not be considered a standalone treatment for established wrinkles.
Texture & Formula
- Texture: Rich hydrating serum
- Formula: Water-based
- Size: 30ml
- pH: 6.00–7.50
- Oil-free: Yes
- Alcohol-free: Yes
- Silicone-free: Yes
- Vegan: Yes
- Cruelty-free: Yes
- Suitable for: All skin types
How to Use
Apply a few drops to the face morning and evening, after cleansing and before heavier creams or oils.
For best results, follow with a moisturiser to help support and maintain the skin's hydration.
The Ordinary recommends patch testing before use and advises using the product only on unbroken skin. If irritation occurs, rinse off, stop using the product and seek medical advice if necessary.
Can It Be Used With Other Actives?
Yes. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a relatively easy product to incorporate into an active skincare routine. The Ordinary specifically indicates that it can be used alongside ingredients such as niacinamide and retinoids. Its hydrating properties can also help support skin when using potentially drying active ingredients.
Pros & Considerations
Pros
- Straightforward hydration-focused formula
- Four forms of hyaluronic acid
- Contains pro-vitamin B5
- Suitable for all skin types
- Easy to combine with many other skincare products
- Water-based and oil-free
- Useful for dry and dehydrated skin
Considerations
- The original formulation has a richer texture and may feel more noticeable on the skin than the newer Ceramides version.
- It primarily addresses hydration; it is not specifically formulated to treat acne, pigmentation or severe wrinkles.
- Very dry skin may still need a moisturiser or cream over the serum to reduce moisture loss.
Who Is It Best For?
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a good choice for anyone looking for a simple daily hydration serum, particularly if the skin feels dry, dehydrated, tight or less supple.
It can also be useful as a hydrating layer in routines containing stronger active ingredients such as retinoids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 do?
It is a hydrating serum designed to replenish moisture, improve skin smoothness and support a more supple, plump-looking complexion.
What is the difference between hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 in this serum?
Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture, while pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) supports moisture retention and the skin barrier. They work together to improve overall hydration.
How many types of hyaluronic acid are in the original formula?
The original formulation contains four types of hyaluronic acid, using different molecular weights and a crosspolymer to support hydration across different levels of the skin's surface.
Is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 suitable for dry skin?
Yes. Hydration is the product's primary purpose, making it particularly relevant for dry and dehydrated skin. The Ordinary lists it as suitable for all skin types.
Can I use Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 every day?
Yes. The Ordinary recommends applying a few drops morning and evening.
Can I use it with retinol?
Yes. The Ordinary specifically recommends pairing hyaluronic acid with retinoids. Since this is a water-based serum, it can be applied before an anhydrous retinoid such as Retinol 1% in Squalane.
Can I use Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Niacinamide?
Yes. The Ordinary states that these two water-based serums can be used together.
Does it help with wrinkles?
Its primary purpose is hydration. Better hydration can make fine dry lines look less noticeable and skin appear plumper, but the product is not specifically a wrinkle-treatment serum.
Is this serum suitable for sensitive skin?
The Ordinary lists the original formulation as suitable for all skin types. However, because individual sensitivity varies, patch testing before regular use is recommended.
Is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 oil-free?
Yes. The original formulation is listed as oil-free, alcohol-free and silicone-free.
What is the difference between the original and new Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5?
The Original Formulation contains four types of hyaluronic acid plus vitamin B5 and has a richer texture. The newer Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides contains five types of hyaluronic acid, added ceramides and a lighter, non-tacky texture.
What size is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5?
The product is available in 30ml, with a 60ml size also offered by The Ordinary. For this listing, use the actual size shown on your stock packaging.
