Fact vs. Fiction: Using Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide Together

Fiction. It’s a common misconception that hyaluronic acid serums should only be applied to wet skin. However, it’s equally as effective at locking in moisture when applied to dry skin.

Our Clinical Research team put this to the test. They investigated the hydration effects of both the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (Original Formulation) and the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides) on wet and dry skin, with and without a moisturizer. The formulation alone delivered immediate and sustained hydration, with no significant difference between wet and dry skin. Combining the serum with a moisturizer also boosted hydration in all cases.

Fiction. Some people believe hyaluronic acid causes skin dryness, especially in low-humidity environments. While it may seem plausible that hyaluronic acid could pull moisture from deeper skin layers, studies show that all molecular weights of hyaluronic acid can improve skin hydration effectively.

To use Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides) serum, apply a few drops to wet or dry skin after cleansing, both morning and evening. For best results, allow the serum to dry completely before layering other products, particularly anhydrous serums.

We suggest following with a moisturizer, like Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, to lock in hydration. Read this guide to learn about the most effective way to layer The Ordinary skincare.

Fiction. Some people may believe all hyaluronic acid products are the same—but this isn’t the case. Hyaluronic acid comes in many different molecular weights and formulations, which determine how the skin is hydrated. Lower weights penetrate deeper layers of the skin’s surface, and higher weights provide surface hydration. Formulations also vary, affecting the product's absorption and overall performance.

Our Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides) contains very low, low, medium, high, and very high molecular weights, a combination of molecular sizes that hydrate different levels of the skin’s surface.

Fiction. Many people believe that hyaluronic acid is solely beneficial for dry skin and unnecessary for other skin types.

In reality, hyaluronic acid offers significant advantages for all skin types, including oily and combination skin. Our hyaluronic acid serums provide hydration without the heaviness, helping balance and support the moisture barrier while aiming to keep both oily and dry skin adequately moisturized.

Fiction. You can start with a 10% concentration. However, we always recommend patch testing before using the product for the first time.

When we launched Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, we understood the potential of niacinamide as an ingredient. We wanted to use an ingredient concentration to optimize niacinamide’s benefits. Our Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is suitable for all skin types.

We recommend slowly incorporating Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% into your skincare regimen.

Fiction. There's a prevalent myth that niacinamide is beneficial only for specific skin types or concerns, such as oily or congested skin. That’s not true.

Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient and our serum offers a range of benefits suitable for different skin type, from oily to blemish-prone and dry skin. Here’s why:

• Niacinamide helps to reduce excess oil and minimize the appearance of pores. This makes it ideal for targeting signs of congestion and balancing oily skin. For blemish support, we recommend adding our Salicylic Acid 2% Solution to your regimen, a multi-functional serum to help clear up pores.

• Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, which supports moisture retention to reduce dryness. It helps to keep the skin hydrated and improve overall skin texture. For the last step in your regimen, we recommend Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.

Fact. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are actually quite complementary. Hyaluronic acid helps hydrate and plump the skin, while niacinamide supports skin barrier function, reduces excess oil, and helps brighten the skin tone. When used together, they provide a balanced approach to hydration and healthy-looking skin.

Fact. Our hyaluronic acid and niacinamide formulations are suitable for all skin types. Including dry and oily. However, each individual may respond differently to ingredients. If you’re new to the products, we recommend introducing them gradually and patch testing prior to use.

Fiction. Our lab recommends that water-based serums be applied in the order of your skin concerns. For example, someone whose primary concern is dryness might apply hyaluronic acid first, while someone else might start with niacinamide to target pore visibility.