Score computed from verified review sentiment, ingredient efficacy, and cross-platform consistency.
Reviewed by Flash AI Editorial Team · Last updated March 2026.
This serum provides immediate and noticeable hydration, leaving skin feeling softer, smoother, and plumper, with some users reporting an almost instant "younger" look.
The formulation, featuring five forms of hyaluronic acid at different molecular weights, ceramides, and pro-vitamin B5, works to hydrate multiple layers of the skin, supporting the skin barrier and retaining moisture for longer periods.
The serum is formulated to be lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for various skin types, including sensitive, combination, and even oily skin.
The serum is praised for its effectiveness in smoothing skin texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a more radiant and supple complexion over time.
Some users have reported experiencing a sticky or slimy texture with the serum, which can be bothersome and may lead to pilling if not applied correctly or followed by other products. This tackiness has been noted even in reformulated versions.
While effective for hydration, some users have found that the serum does not significantly impact acne or breakouts, and in some cases, it may even contribute to them, suggesting it might not be the best choice for acne-prone skin.
Some users note that the serum might not provide intense, all-day hydration on its own and may require reapplication or layering with other products, especially for those with very dry skin.
Flash AI analyzes thousands of reviews across Amazon, Nykaa, YouTube & Reddit, etc. to give you one honest score — and finds you the best price in India.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a lightweight hydration serum developed by DECIEM, designed to directly target dryness and improve skin texture, plumpness, and smoothness. With 100899 verified reviews across 5 platforms and an AI Score of 88/100 on Flash AI, it is one of the most widely reviewed serums in its category. Available in a 30ml format, the serum suits all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin, and the brand positions it for daily use as part of a layered skincare routine.
The formulation centres on two key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5, also known as Panthenol. Hyaluronic Acid targets dehydration by drawing moisture to the skin, supporting a plumped appearance and smoother texture. Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) supports the skin barrier and helps the skin retain moisture over time, contributing to longer-lasting hydration with consistent use. The serum is free of oil, alcohol, and silicone, reducing the risk of irritation or congestion and making it compatible with a wide range of skin types and routines. It is certified Vegan and Cruelty-Free, and the brand describes it as hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
Dry and sensitive skin types benefit most from this serum. Reviewers with oily and combination skin also find the lightweight texture comfortable and non-greasy in daily use. That said, some users with acne-prone skin report that the serum may contribute to breakouts in certain cases, making a patch test advisable before full-face application. A portion of reviewers flag a sticky or slimy residue, particularly when too much product is applied or when you layer subsequent products on too quickly. For very dry skin, pairing this serum with a moisturiser improves all-day hydration results, as some reviewers note that solo use does not deliver intense moisture throughout the day.
At a price range of ₹1000 to ₹4346 across 14 sellers in India, the variation is considerable. Flash AI recommends comparing prices across sellers before purchasing, as buying near the lower end of this range delivers the strongest value. The serum's Value sub-score of 95/100 reflects consistent reviewer sentiment that the product performs reliably on hydration and skin-smoothing at an accessible price. If you have dry or sensitive skin and want a clean, straightforward hydration serum with no unnecessary additives, this product delivers. If you are prone to breakouts, introduce it gradually and monitor your skin's response over several weeks before committing to daily use.
"With a Flash AI Score of 88/100, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 30mL earns its ranking through demonstrated, cross-platform results."
— Flash AI Editorial TeamThe Ordinary is a skincare brand celebrated for its no-nonsense approach to effective ingredients at remarkably affordable price points. Their product range focuses on single-ingredient formulations like Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide, targeting concerns such as uneven texture, dullness, and acne-prone skin. Available across major Indian marketplaces including Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, and Nykaa, the brand has built a loyal following for delivering transparency-first skincare.
| Features | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | Minimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + Pga | The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum | Vilvah Milk Drops Brightening Serum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Key Actives | Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) | Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5 | Niacinamide | Alpha Arbutin, Hyaluronic Acid… |
| Best For | general skincare | Women | Sensitive Skin | Pregnant women |
| Fragrance | — | Unscented | — | Unscented |
| Price From | ₹1000 | ₹499 | ₹254 | ₹215 |
"It's The Ordinary, the name says it all. The best hyaluronic acid in the market. No fluffy, just the basic ingredient that does the job. Apply it after toner and before your night creme for the best effect 🫶🏼"
"I had been using The Ordinary's Hyaluronic acid for years and it was such a perfect addition to my skincare regimen. Left my skin feeling plump and hydrated ..."
"im gonna be honest, i got dry and sensitive skin my routine consist of 2 toners , moisturizer and cicaplast baume from laroche. i put this on after the ..."
The brand recommends daily application. Apply it based on the priority of your skincare concerns, placing the product targeting your most pressing concern first in your routine. Most reviewers use it once or twice daily, morning and evening, after cleansing and before heavier products such as moisturisers or face oils.
The specs confirm suitability for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. Reviewers with oily and combination skin find the lightweight, non-greasy formula comfortable to use daily. However, some users with acne-prone skin report that the serum may contribute to breakouts in certain cases. If you have active acne, introduce this serum gradually and monitor your skin's response before using it daily.
Vitamin B5, listed in the specs as Panthenol, is a skin-conditioning ingredient that supports the skin barrier and helps the skin retain moisture. Paired with Hyaluronic Acid, it helps lock in the hydration drawn to the skin's surface. Reviewers credit this combination for the barrier support and longer moisture retention they experience with consistent use.
Reviewers consistently report noticeable softness and a plumped feeling within the first few applications. More significant improvements in skin texture and the appearance of fine lines are reported by reviewers who use the serum consistently for several weeks. Reviews that assess the product after fewer than two weeks are a less reliable indicator of long-term performance.
The specs list this serum as hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. It is free of oil, alcohol, and silicone, all common irritants. That said, a portion of reviewers report a sticky or slimy residue that some find uncomfortable, and users with acne-prone skin may experience breakouts in certain cases. A patch test before full-face application is advisable if you have reactive or sensitive skin.
This serum pairs Hyaluronic Acid at 2% with Vitamin B5 (Panthenol), which supports the skin barrier and helps retain moisture for longer periods. Reviewers highlight multi-depth hydration and barrier support as distinguishing factors compared to simpler formulations. The combination of both ingredients in an oil-free, alcohol-free, and silicone-free base also broadens its suitability across different skin types.
Flash AI tracks this serum across 14 sellers in India, with prices ranging from ₹1000 to ₹4346. Purchasing closer to ₹1000 offers the strongest value, in line with the serum's Value sub-score of 95/100. Compare listings across major Indian retail platforms to find the most competitive price before you buy.
The serum has a lightweight texture that reviewers describe as fast-absorbing and non-greasy on application. A portion of users report a sticky or slimy residue, particularly when too much product is applied or when you layer subsequent products on too quickly. Applying a small amount and pressing it gently into the skin, rather than rubbing, reduces the risk of pilling under other products.
Hyaluronic Acid is a well-tolerated ingredient that the specs confirm suits all skin types. This product is additionally described as hypoallergenic and free of oil, alcohol, and silicone. It carries Vegan and Cruelty-Free certifications. Reviewers with dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin all report comfortable daily use, though those with acne-prone skin should introduce it cautiously and observe their skin's response.
Yes, this serum is designed to work within a layered skincare routine. The brand recommends applying products in order of concern priority, with the serum addressing your most pressing concern applied first. Its lightweight texture makes it suitable as an early step, before heavier serums, moisturisers, or face oils. Allow each product to absorb fully before applying the next to minimise pilling.
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