To help draw moisture into the skin, The Ordinary’s HA serum utilizes five forms of hyaluronic acid in varying molecular weights. Its moisturizing benefits are bolstered by the inclusion of vitamin B5, also known as panthenol—a soothing ingredient that helps support the skin’s natural production of ceramides and lipids. Speaking of which, topical ceramides offer their own barrier-supporting benefits. As board-certified dermatologist Y. Claire Chang, M.D., previously explained, ceramides are a natural component of the skin’s moisture barrier that “act as the glue between skin cells to prevent water loss and maintain skin integrity.”
The brand’s recent reformulation also improves the texture. While the original was known for its slightly tacky feel, the newest version has a noticeably smoother, less viscous consistency. In short, don’t mistake this affordable price point for a lack of high-impact ingredients.
6 Benefits of The Ordinary Hydrating Face Serum
- Multi-Level Hydration: Contains 5 forms of hyaluronic acid (with different molecular weights), which help retain water in both the surface and deeper layers of the epidermis. The result is softer and plumper skin.
- Plumping Effect: Reduces the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration. It doesn’t eliminate structural wrinkles, but makes the skin more relaxed and radiant.
- Strengthens the Skin Barrier: Ceramides help restore the hydrolipidic film, limiting water loss and making the skin more resistant to external aggressors. This is the main improvement over the previous formula.
- Vitamin B5 (panthenol): Helps maintain hydration, soothes the skin, and contributes to the natural production of ceramides and skin lipids.
- Greater Elasticity: With consistent use, skin appears more elastic, soft, and even. In the brand’s clinical tests, an improvement in skin elasticity was also observed after about four weeks.
- Lightweight Texture: The new formula is less sticky than the previous one, absorbs quickly, and works well under sunscreen and makeup.
How to Use The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The Ordinary’s hydrating face serum is a versatile addition to any skin-care routine, with a formula that plays well with other ingredients. Experts recommend applying the serum immediately after washing your face, while skin is still slightly damp. “You’ll want to apply [hydrating serums] to freshly exfoliated skin—it won’t get where it needs to go if there are dead skin cells in the way,” Dr. Yadav explained. One to two drops is enough to cover the face, and the formula layers smoothly without pilling under other products (as long as you give it a moment to fully dry).
The Ordinary
