Amino Acids + B5
Amino Acids + B5
Product Description
Product overview
An ultra-lightweight hydrating serum featuring a concentrated 17% amino acid complex that mimics your skin's natural moisturizing factors, plus 5% pro-vitamin B5 for deep surface and below-surface hydration. Supports barrier function, improves elasticity, and delivers non-greasy moisture for softer, smoother skin.
17% Amino Acid Complex
Mimics skin's natural moisturizing factors (NMF) with 13 different amino acids for enhanced barrier support and hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORY17% Amino Acid Complex
Mimics skin's natural moisturizing factors (NMF) with 13 different amino acids for enhanced barrier support and hydration.
5% Pro-Vitamin B5
Panthenol provides surface and deep hydration while supporting skin repair and anti-inflammatory functions.
Barrier Support
Strengthens skin's natural protective barrier with ingredients that replicate the composition found in healthy skin.
Improved Elasticity
Amino acids support collagen and elastin production, helping maintain skin's firmness and bounce.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients of concern during pregnancy. Safe to use while pregnant or nursing.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and amino acids which may potentially feed malassezia in presence of lipids. Patch test if prone to fungal acne.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula is unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
May cause temporary tingling due to high amino acid concentration. Can be mixed with moisturizer to reduce intensity.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAmino Acid Complex 17%Proven
A concentrated blend of 13 amino acids including Arginine, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Threonine, Valine, Proline, Isoleucine, Lysine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid, and Aspartic Acid. These form the building blocks of skin proteins and are key components of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF).
- Function: Amino acids attract and retain moisture while supporting collagen and elastin synthesis
- Research: Studies show topical amino acids improve skin hydration and support barrier repair
- Skin-identical: Matches the amino acid composition naturally found in healthy skin
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 5%Proven
D-Panthenol is a provitamin of B5 that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. It penetrates deep into the skin providing both surface and below-surface hydration while supporting the skin's natural healing processes.
- Function: Humectant that attracts water, plus anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties
- Research: Clinical studies confirm panthenol improves skin hydration, barrier function, and reduces inflammation
- Depth: Able to penetrate into deeper skin layers unlike many hydrating ingredients
BetaineProven
A sugar beet-derived amino acid derivative that acts as an osmoprotectant, helping cells maintain proper water balance and protecting proteins from environmental stress.
- Function: Osmolyte that controls cell-water balance and provides moisturization
- Benefit: Helps skin retain moisture even in dry or harsh conditions
Sodium PCA & PCAProven
Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid and its sodium salt are naturally occurring components of the skin's NMF. These powerful humectants draw moisture from the environment to keep skin hydrated.
- Function: Skin-identical humectant that attracts and holds water
- Safety: Irritancy: 0, Comedogenicity: 0 - extremely well-tolerated
26 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Betaine, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Sodium Lactate, Arginine, PCA, Aspartic Acid, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Threonine, Valine, Proline, Isoleucine, Lysine HCl, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glutamic Acid, Citric Acid, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based treatments and before heavier serums, oils, and moisturizers. Can be used AM & PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. If using toner, apply that first and let it absorb.
Apply 2-3 Drops
Dispense a few drops onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Pat Into Skin
Gently pat and press the serum into face and neck. Allow 30 seconds to absorb before the next step.
Follow with Moisturizer
Seal in hydration with your favorite moisturizer. If tingling is too strong, mix serum directly into your cream.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated or dry skin needing lightweight hydration
- Your skin barrier feels compromised or weakened
- You want to prep skin before retinol to reduce dryness
- You prefer minimalist, no-fuss serums
- You're looking for pregnancy-safe hydration
- You want to layer without pilling or heaviness
- Post-procedure skin needing gentle repair support
Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You need heavy-duty anti-aging actives
- You prefer cream textures over watery serums
- You want instant visible results (this is subtle)
- You dislike any tingling sensation during application
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Perfect for oily skin seeking hydration.
Provides excellent hydration but very dry skin will need a richer moisturizer on top. Great as a hydrating layer.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Fragrance-free and gentle formula. May cause temporary tingling—patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), oil-free formula won't clog pores. However, use caution if you have fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
2-3 MONTHSInstant Hydration
Skin feels immediately softer and more supple. The watery texture absorbs quickly, leaving skin comfortable without residue.
90% noticedImproved Texture
Skin begins to feel smoother and more resilient. Fine dehydration lines appear less visible. Better absorption of subsequent products.
75% noticedBarrier Strengthening
Noticeable improvement in skin barrier function. Skin feels less reactive and more resistant to environmental stress.
65% noticedEnhanced Elasticity
Continued use supports collagen production. Skin maintains better hydration levels throughout the day with improved bounce.
55% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly affordable at $9.20 for clinical-grade ingredients
- Ultra-lightweight texture that layers beautifully
- No conflicts with other skincare products
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Clean, minimalist formula with 26 ingredients
- Effective barrier support and hydration
- Great for prepping skin before retinol
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free
Criticized
- Can cause tingling that some find uncomfortable
- Results are subtle, not dramatic
- May cause breakouts in rare cases
- Not safe for fungal acne sufferers
- Can feel sticky if too much is applied
- 30ml bottle runs out quickly with daily use
- Not enough standalone hydration for very dry skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHighest ingredient match with similar amino acid and B5 composition. Contains additional sugars for hydration. Slightly more expensive but very comparable formula.
From the same brand, uses hyaluronic acid instead of amino acids for hydration. Similar B5 content. Different mechanism but comparable hydration results.
Premium option from DECIEM's advanced line. More complex formula with additional antioxidants. Significantly higher price point but enhanced anti-aging benefits.
Cream format instead of serum. Contains similar amino acids and NMF components. Better for those wanting more occlusive hydration rather than layering serum.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Brown glass dropper bottle with pipette for precise dispensing. Glass protects formula from light degradation.
Yes, TSA-compliant at 30ml. Compact size fits easily in carry-on liquids bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. The amino acids and panthenol are gentle, naturally-occurring substances that pose no known risk. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution if you're prone to fungal acne. This product contains Polysorbate 20, which is flagged as potentially feeding malassezia. Additionally, amino acids like arginine can potentially promote fungal growth when combined with lipids (which are naturally present in skin). If you have fungal acne, consider patch testing or choosing a verified fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Yes! Amino Acids + B5 has no conflicts with other skincare ingredients. It pairs especially well with retinol, helping to buffer potential dryness and irritation. You can use it with vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), niacinamide, and peptides. Apply it after water-based treatments and before heavier products.
This serum works for all skin types but is particularly excellent for oily, combination, and dehydrated skin due to its ultra-lightweight, oil-free formula. It's also great for sensitive skin (fragrance-free) and acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, rating 0/5). Dry skin types will benefit but should follow with a richer moisturizer.
Immediate: Skin feels softer and more hydrated right after application. 1-2 weeks: Improved skin texture and reduced appearance of fine dehydration lines. 4-6 weeks: Noticeable barrier strengthening and reduced skin reactivity. 2-3 months: Enhanced elasticity and sustained hydration improvement. Results are subtle and cumulative rather than dramatic.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, oils, and moisturizers. As a water-based formula, it should be one of your first treatment layers. The general order is: Cleanser → Toner → Amino Acids + B5 → Other Serums → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Can be used both morning and evening.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5—it's highly unlikely to clog pores. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. It's suitable for acne-prone skin, though rare individual reactions can occur. If you're concerned, patch test on your jawline first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The brown glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. Give the bottle neck a wipe after each use to maintain hygiene.
Verdict: The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5 is an exceptional value proposition for anyone seeking lightweight, barrier-supporting hydration. At just $9.20, it delivers clinical-grade amino acids and proven hydrating ingredients that rival products costing 5-10x more. While results are subtle rather than transformative, this serum excels at what it promises: strengthening the skin barrier, improving hydration, and prepping skin for other treatments. Its clean, minimalist formula makes it pregnancy-safe and suitable for most skin types. The only significant drawback is potential sensitivity for those with fungal acne. For everyday hydration support, especially when layering with actives like retinol, this is a skincare essential that punches well above its price point.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium PCA
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|