---

Week 1: First Impressions and Initial Use

On the first day, I was pleased with the lightweight, gel-like texture of the serum. It feels smooth and refreshing on the skin, absorbing quickly without any sticky residue. The Ordinary claims the serum uses three types of hyaluronic acid with varying molecular weights to target multiple layers of the skin for a plumping effect, paired with Vitamin B5 to enhance hydration.

After applying it to damp skin morning and night, I noticed an immediate sense of hydration, but no dramatic changes. My skin felt comfortable, and the product seemed to sit well under my moisturiser, which was a good start.

Pros:

• Non-sticky and fast-absorbing
• Blends well with other products in my routine

Cons:

• Hydration felt surface-level, with minimal changes after the first few uses

Week 2: Consistent Hydration for Everyday Wear

By the second week, I started to see subtle improvements in my skin’s overall texture. My skin felt softer and slightly more plump, especially when using the serum twice daily as recommended. I noticed a difference in how my skin held onto moisture throughout the day, particularly on workdays when I tend to be in a drying office environment.

I also took the serum to a family event, testing how it held up under makeup. It provided a smooth, hydrated base, and my foundation applied well without any noticeable patchiness. However, the hydration didn’t feel as intense as I hoped. Those with extremely dry skin may need an additional layer of moisture on top.

Positives:

• Skin texture felt smoother and softer
• Worked well as a primer for makeup

Negatives:

• Hydration wasn’t as intense as anticipated, especially for drier areas

Week 3: A Boost to Skin’s Natural Glow

As I reached the third week, I started noticing a subtle, natural glow that hadn’t been there before. My skin looked healthier and less dull, even on makeup-free days. I also felt a noticeable difference in how resilient my skin felt after cleansing, with less tightness than usual. This is likely thanks to the Vitamin B5, which claims to boost the skin’s natural repair process.

However, I began noticing a slight pilling when layering with certain thicker moisturisers. This was easy to manage by using a lighter moisturiser or giving the serum more time to absorb. But for those who like to layer heavier creams, this could be something to consider.

Highlights:

• Visible improvement in overall skin radiance
• Skin felt more balanced and less prone to dryness

Drawbacks:

• Potential for pilling when combined with thicker products

Week 4: Long-Term Hydration and Final Thoughts

By the final week, the cumulative effect of using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 was clear. My skin felt softer, more resilient, and maintained a hydrated look throughout the day. I even used it for a casual weekend gathering, opting for a minimal makeup look to show off the new-found glow.

While it didn’t entirely solve my dry skin issues, it provided a solid base level of hydration that worked well in combination with other products. I’d recommend pairing this with a rich moisturiser or using it alongside a face mist for those needing extra hydration, as this serum alone may not be enough for very dry skin types.

Final Pros:

• Skin appeared more luminous and healthy-looking
• Hydration lasted longer with consistent use
• Lightweight, comfortable texture suitable for layering

Final Cons:

• Doesn’t fully meet the needs of extremely dry skin
• Some pilling with heavier products

Final Verdict

After four weeks of daily use, I can confidently say that The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a reliable, affordable option for adding lightweight hydration to your routine. While it may not fully address intense dryness on its own, it’s a great choice for normal to slightly dry skin looking to achieve a natural glow and smoother texture.

Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. Results may vary, particularly depending on your skin type and other products in your routine. If you’re curious about adding a hydrating serum, this could be a great starting point – but as always, skincare is highly individual, and your results may differ.