Acne B5 Serum
Acne B5 Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight acne-fighting serum formulated with Salicylic Acid to unclog pores and control excess oil, Panthenol (Vitamin B5) to maintain skin hydration, and Tamanu Oil to accelerate acne healing while reducing post-acne marks. Perfect for oily and acne-prone skin seeking clearer, calmer skin without harsh drying effects.
Unclogs Pores
Salicylic Acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, blackheads, and dead skin cells for clearer skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYUnclogs Pores
Salicylic Acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, blackheads, and dead skin cells for clearer skin.
Controls Oil
Zinc PCA helps regulate sebum production and limits acne-causing bacteria proliferation for less shine throughout the day.
Maintains Hydration
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Hyaluronic Acid keep skin hydrated while treating acne, preventing the dryness common with BHA products.
Soothes & Heals
Tamanu Oil and Centella Asiatica work together to calm inflammation, speed up acne healing, and reduce post-acne marks.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (generally considered safe in low concentrations) but also contains Retinyl Palmitate which should be avoided during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
NOT safe for fungal acne. Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and Tamanu Oil which can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne symptoms.
Low risk of clogging pores. Most ingredients have 0-1 comedogenicity ratings, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Contains denatured alcohol which may cause dryness or irritation in sensitive skin. Listed mid-formula so concentration is likely moderate.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA)Proven
The gold standard for treating acne-prone skin. This oil-soluble BHA penetrates deep into pores to exfoliate inside and out, dissolving sebum plugs and preventing new breakouts.
- Function: Exfoliant, anti-acne, anti-inflammatory
- FDA approved: 0.5-2% concentration for OTC acne treatment
- Research: Proven effective for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and mild to moderate acne
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Also provides anti-inflammatory and wound-healing benefits, making it perfect for acne-treated skin.
- Function: Moisturizer, soothing, barrier repair
- Irritancy: 0 |Comedogenicity: 0
- Research: Studies show it promotes lipid synthesis for stronger skin barrier and reduces irritation from other active ingredients
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven
A skincare superstar with multiple benefits: regulates oil production, minimizes pores, fades dark spots, and strengthens the skin barrier through increased ceramide synthesis.
- Function: Anti-acne, brightening, barrier repair, sebum control
- Optimal concentration: 2-5% for best results
- Research: Clinically proven to improve acne, rosacea, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Tamanu Oil (Calophyllum Inophyllum)Promising
A unique oil from Polynesia known for its remarkable wound-healing and regenerative properties. Contains calophyllic acid that promotes skin repair and reduces scarring.
- Function: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, wound healing
- Research: Studies show visible scar improvement within 6-9 weeks of consistent use
- Additional benefits: SPF boosting properties and significant Vitamin E content
Zinc PCAProven
A synergistic combination of Zinc and L-PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid). Zinc normalizes sebum production while L-PCA provides hydration and enhances zinc's bioavailability.
- Function: Sebum control, antimicrobial, hydrating
- Research: In-vivo studies show significant sebum reduction after 28 days at 1% concentration
- Bonus: Strong antibacterial activity against P. acnes bacteria
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this traditional medicinal herb is renowned for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Contains active compounds like asiaticoside and madecassoside.
- Function: Soothing, antioxidant, promotes collagen synthesis
- Research: Stimulates hyaluronic acid synthesis and improves skin hydration
- Traditional use: Used for centuries to treat burns, wounds, and eczema
27 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Propanediol, Zinc PCA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Alcohol, Allantoin, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dextrin, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Stephania Tetrandra Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Zinc Sulfate, Retinyl Palmitate, Artemisia Argyi Leaf Extract, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, CI 74260
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean, dry skin. Can be paired with The Originote Ceratides Serum for enhanced skin barrier support. Always use sunscreen during the day when using BHA products.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. After cleansing, apply your toner and wait for it to fully absorb.
Dispense Serum
Drop 2-3 drops of the Acne B5 Serum onto your fingertips or palm.
Apply Evenly
Gently pat and spread the serum evenly across your face and neck, focusing on problem areas.
Let It Absorb
Wait for the serum to fully absorb (about 30 seconds to 1 minute) before applying subsequent skincare products.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with acne, blackheads, or clogged pores
- You want to control excess sebum production
- You need help fading post-acne marks and scars
- You're looking for an affordable acne treatment
- Your skin can tolerate BHA/Salicylic Acid
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- Your skin is extremely sensitive to BHA
- You're allergic to any listed ingredients
- You have a compromised skin barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Salicylic Acid and Zinc PCA work together to control sebum, minimize pores, and prevent breakouts without over-drying.
Great choice. Focus application on T-zone and problem areas. Panthenol helps maintain balance in drier areas.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Multi-action formula targets acne at multiple levels. Not suitable for fungal acne.
BHA may be drying. If you have dry skin with occasional breakouts, use sparingly and follow with rich moisturizer.
Contains alcohol and essential oil which may irritate sensitive skin. Patch test first and introduce gradually.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Initial Adjustment
Skin may experience mild purging as Salicylic Acid brings congestion to the surface. Some users notice immediate pore-cleansing effect. Ripe pimples may come to head faster.
70% noticed faster pimple healingVisible Improvement
Reduced blackheads and fewer new breakouts. Skin texture begins to smooth out. Oil production starts to normalize. Post-acne redness begins to fade.
80% saw reduced breakoutsOptimal Results
Significantly clearer skin with minimized pores. Acne scars and dark spots visibly faded. Balanced oil production throughout the day. Smoother, healthier-looking complexion.
85% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fast absorption and lightweight texture
- Effectively reduces active acne and speeds healing
- Very affordable price point
- Doesn't over-dry skin like some BHA products
- Helps fade post-acne marks over time
- BPOM certified and halal-friendly
- Multi-action formula with proven actives
Criticized
- Small bottle size (20ml) for the frequency of use needed
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Contains alcohol which may irritate some skin
- Dropper packaging can be messy/leaky
- May cause purging in first 1-2 weeks
- Light floral scent not fragrance-free
- Contains Retinyl Palmitate (avoid if pregnant)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses 4% Betaine Salicylate (gentler BHA) + Niacinamide + Panthenol. 100ml bottle lasts longer. Fungal acne safe! Better for sensitive skin but less targeted for active acne.
Triple acid formula (AHA + BHA + PHA) for broader exfoliation. Contains Tea Tree and Centella. Gentler BHA concentration but addresses multiple skin concerns.
Pure 2% Salicylic Acid without additional soothing ingredients. More straightforward formula, potentially more drying. Best for those who want basic, effective BHA treatment.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Mark the date you opened it to track freshness.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed when not in use to prevent oxidation.
Glass bottle with dropper applicator. Handle with care to prevent breakage and leakage.
Yes, 20ml is under the 100ml carry-on limit. Secure dropper tightly and store upright to prevent leaks.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. While topical Salicylic Acid in low concentrations is generally considered safe during pregnancy according to ACOG guidelines, this serum also contains Retinyl Palmitate (a form of Vitamin A) which should be avoided during pregnancy. Additionally, it contains essential oils. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
No, this serum is NOT safe for fungal acne. It contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil (Tamanu Oil), and Retinyl Palmitate - all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne symptoms. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid which is fungal acne safe.
Since this serum already contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Retinyl Palmitate, avoid layering with additional retinoids or strong acids in the same routine to prevent irritation. If you want to use Vitamin C, apply it in the morning and use this serum at night. For AHA products, alternate days rather than using them together. Always introduce new actives gradually and monitor your skin's response.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated to control excess sebum, unclog pores, and treat acne. Those with dry or sensitive skin should use with caution as the BHA and alcohol content may cause dryness or irritation. It's not recommended for those with fungal acne, eczema, or a compromised skin barrier.
Most users notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. You may experience some purging in the first 1-2 weeks as the BHA brings congestion to the surface - this is normal and temporary. Significant results for acne reduction, minimized pores, and faded acne marks typically appear after 6-8 weeks of regular use. For best results, use consistently as part of your daily skincare routine.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Acne B5 Serum → (other serums if any) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Drop 2-3 drops onto clean skin and let it absorb fully before the next step. Can be used morning and/or night, but always apply sunscreen during the day as BHA increases sun sensitivity.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. Most key ingredients like Glycerin, Panthenol, Niacinamide, and Salicylic Acid have comedogenic ratings of 0. While Retinyl Palmitate has a rating of 1-3, the BHA in the formula actually helps unclog pores. Overall, it's unlikely to clog pores for most people and is specifically designed for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 20ml bottle typically lasts 1-2 months with daily use (2-3 drops per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the dropper tightly closed to maintain product integrity. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Originote Acne B5 Serum is an excellent budget-friendly option for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Its combination of proven actives - Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Zinc PCA, and Panthenol - effectively targets acne while maintaining skin hydration. The addition of Tamanu Oil and Centella helps with healing and reducing acne scars. However, it's not suitable for everyone: those with fungal acne, pregnant individuals, or those with sensitive skin should look elsewhere. The small 20ml size may require frequent repurchasing for daily users. Overall, for its price point and formulation, it delivers solid results for its target audience.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 8 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxyacetophenone
|
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc PCA
|
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Emulsion Stabilising, Stabilising
|
|