SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 vs H.A Intensifier – Which One is Right for You?

Hydrating B5

What does it do? The Hydrating B5 is a stalwart product within the SkinCeuticals regime and is, in basic terms, a straight up hydrator. It provides much-needed moisture for the top layers of the skin, helping to condition dry patches, plump dehydration lines and nourish the skin without making it feel greasy.

How does it do this? It delivers impressive hydration via a couple of key ingredients, namely Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5. These together hydrate and repair the skin’s moisture barrier, ensuring as much water stays locked within the skin as possible throughout the day.

What does it feel like? Incredibly light. As it is oil-free, this serum has more of a gel-like texture than traditional formulas, which can be very runny. Easy to apply to the skin, it sinks in almost immediately and leaves no trace of grease, shine or stickiness behind.

Who is it for? Everyone. The beauty of this product is its versatility. If you have oily or acne-prone skin and can’t bear the thought of rubbing a moisturizing cream into your face every morning, this serum provides the solution. It provides enough hydration to keep the skin balanced but won’t aggravate a problematic complexion. If your skin is dry or dehydrated and you don’t feel like your moisturizer is giving your skin enough hydration, apply this serum first for an extra moisture boost.

H.A Intensifier

What does it do? Unlike the Hydrating B5, which is a hydrator, the H.A Intensifier is a corrective serum designed to up the skin’s natural Hyaluronic Acid content which, over time, improves the texture and firmness of the skin.

How does it do this? It works its magic by using specialist ingredients (namely Proxylane, Liquorice Root and Purple Rice Extracts, and Hyaluronic Acid) to preserve and gradually increase the amount of Hyaluronic Acid within the lower layers of the skin by up to 30% in just 12 weeks.

What does it feel like? Again, this serum is incredibly lightweight. Slightly thinner in consistency than the Hydrating B5, it sinks in just as quickly and can easily be layered with other products. The skin is left feeling smooth and soft and, just like the Hydrating B5, it doesn’t leave the skin with a greasy sheen.

Who is it for? Most people can use this serum and see results, but it tends to work best on older skin dealing with the onset of ageing. Start using it in your 30s or 40s to curb the natural drop in Hyaluronic Acid production before it happens or add it to your routine during your 50s and 60s as a way to tackle slackness and wrinkles before they become too difficult to treat. Use it morning and night for best results, and don’t be afraid of using it alongside an antioxidant or Retinol serum.