The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Review

Jun 8

Written By Tiana

If you've been looking to try out this popular ingredient - you have to read this review! Let's dive into this in-depth The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 review.

As a background - I have combo acne-prone skin and live in a dry/mild temp climate.

Quick facts:

Makeup Alley Rating: 3.6/5 out of 127 reviews

EWG's Skin Deep® Ingredient Checker: 1 EWG rating for low number of concerning ingredients

Formulation: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is formulated without any alcohol, silicone or oils. It is also vegan and cruelty-free!

Potential irritants: Whilst the product itself does not contain any actual potential irritants, the product can trigger irritation from use of other products as the hyaluronic acid increases the penetration of topical skin creams. This means that the increased absorption in the skin can lead to irritants from other products.

Application: The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid smoothly glides onto the skin and is quickly absorbed. Although it is a little sticky and applying a little bit too much can create a soapy-like feeling on the skin.

Scent: No noticeable scent

Packaging: The serum comes in a glass bottle with a glass pipette for a smooth application. The product comes in two different sizes: 30ml and 60ml.

Price: Prices start from $8.20 CAD or $7.50 USD

Where to purchase: The Ordinary’s product can be brought at Deciem, Walmart, Sephora, Amazon, Socialite Beauty

Pros: The hyaluronic acid serum seems to be a favorite for a lot of those who already like the main ingredient. It could be a great starter product to try if you are looking for a hydrating serum.

Cons: I personally don't think this serum works for my skin and the drier climate I live in. It seems to dry very quickly and based on what I've read about hyaluronic acid (more about it below), it does the opposite of what it's supposed to do for me.

ordinary hyaluronic acid and ha moisturizing factors

What does The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid do?

Hyaluronic acid, just as a background, is a natural substance found in the fluids in the eyes and joints. It acts as a cushion and lubricant in the joints and other tissues (source). This ingredient has the ability to replenish incredible amounts of moisture. One gram (or 0.03 oz.) of hyaluronic acid can hold up to six litres of water.

The Deciem website notes that the Hyaluronic Acid provides multi-depth hydration through its water-based formula. The formula uses three forms of Hyaluronic Acid with differing molecular weights to hydrate the skin and offer visible without drawing the water out of the skin.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ingredients

To learn more about reading this list, check out our in-depth guide on how to read skincare ingredient labels to see if the formulation would be right for you.

Aqua (Water), Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Panthenol, Ahnfeltia Concinna Extract, Glycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol.

deciem.com

According to INCIDecoder, the key ingredient, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, is known to be highly effective for moisturizing the skin and also providing antioxidant properties to help the skin to repair itself. Additionally, the special hyaluronic acid mesh found in this ingredient has a “remarkable water-binding capacity” and creates a smooth film on the skin which provides long-term moisturizing factors. Other ingredients in the formulation appear to be low in comedogenicity and toxicity as well, as well as having high moisturizing benefits.

the ordinary hyaluronic acid 2% + b5 review with texture shot

How to use The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid

Because Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture, you'll need to apply it to damp skin, preferable in a more humid environment (ex. after a shower in a steamy bathroom). Or else it could have the opposite effect.

Is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid good?

Personally, my skin felt drier after using this serum (because of the reason above ^). I also didn't like the texture of this particular product and thought it was a little too thick and sticky. I've read on Reddit that some other people have had the same experience due to their climate as well, so just something to note.