The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 – My Honest Review + How It Helps Dehydrated Skin

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 – My Honest Review + How It Helps Dehydrated Skin


If your skin ever feels tight, flaky, or just dry underneath the oil, you’re probably dealing with dehydration — and hyaluronic acid (HA) is the go-to ingredient for restoring moisture. This serum from The Ordinary is one of the most budget-friendly HA options out there. Here’s everything you need to know before trying it!

🧴 What is It?

This is a water-based hydrating serum that contains:

  • Hyaluronic Acid 2% – a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin

  • Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) – helps soothe and heal the skin barrier

Unlike heavier moisturizers, this serum works by pulling water into the skin, making it ideal for layering.

🌿 What Skin Types Can Use It?

This serum is great for:

  • Dehydrated skin (even if you’re oily!)

  • Sensitive skin

  • Dry or flaky skin

  • Anyone who wants a plump, dewy look

⚠️ Things to note:

  • It can feel a little sticky if not applied on damp skin

  • Doesn’t replace a moisturizer — it needs to be sealed in with one

✨ How I Used It (Application Tips)

Use it right after cleansing while your skin is still damp.

🔄 Morning or Night:

  • I used it in my night routine

  • 2–3 drops is enough for the whole face

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Always apply to damp skin — dry skin can make HA feel tight or sticky

  • Follow up with a moisturizer to lock it in

  • Avoid layering with exfoliants (AHA/BHA) in the same step

🌸 My Honest Review

I have dehydrated but oily skin, and this serum helps keep my skin calm and bouncy — especially overnight. I personally don’t love how it feels in the morning under sunscreen (a bit tacky), so I only use it at night.

When I apply it to damp skin and follow with a moisturizer, it gives me that nice, plump feeling by morning.

What I love most:

  • It soothes irritation and redness

  • It prevents dry flakes around my nose

  • It layers well with other calming products (like Centella or Ceramides)

That said, I’d call this serum a budget-friendly, beginner-friendly hydrating option. It’s great if you don’t have many skin concerns and just want something light to keep your skin balanced. But if you’re dealing with multiple concerns — like dullness, pigmentation, or aging — you might be better off with a targeted serum that includes hyaluronic acid as a support ingredient (which most do!).

It was definitely sufficient for me in the beginning, but as I get O..l..d..e..r..😭 I’ve found I need something stronger and more layered. These days, I reach for lightweight essences instead. They’re more watery, so I can apply multiple layers without the sticky feeling.

Still, I think this is a perfect budget “starter serum” for anyone beginning their skincare journey.

Side noteee, I recently found out that The Ordinary has reformulated this serum and added ceramides to the ingredients which is amazing if you’re someone who needs barrier support alongside hydration. It’s a subtle upgrade that makes it even more nourishing, especially for sensitive or compromised skin!

🛒 Where to Buy

  • Adore Beauty AU – official Aussie retailer, free shipping over $50 

  • Buy on Amazon AU 

  • Stylevana – not affiliated

  • YesStyle – may be cheaper but slower delivery

🧼 Final Thoughts

If your skin needs hydration but you hate heavy creams, this serum is a great addition. It’s lightweight, beginner-friendly, and layers beautifully under most routines. Just remember — damp skin + moisturiser after = the trick to making it work.

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only share products I truly believe in 💖

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