Ha 5 Rich
Ha 5 Rich
Product Description
Product overview
A silky, rich hydrating serum from Geek & Gorgeous that combines 5 different molecular weights and structures of hyaluronic acid β alongside Tremella mushroom extract and panthenol β to deliver deep, long-lasting hydration, plumped skin, and a reinforced barrier. Specifically formulated for normal to dry and dehydrated skin types.
Deep, Multi-Layer Hydration
Five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid hydrate the skin's surface and deeper epidermal layers simultaneously for a plumped, bouncy result.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep, Multi-Layer Hydration
Five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid hydrate the skin's surface and deeper epidermal layers simultaneously for a plumped, bouncy result.
Barrier Support
Medium-weight HA and panthenol help reinforce the skin's natural defense mechanisms and support healing of a compromised barrier.
Tremella Mushroom Boost
Silver ear mushroom extract adds polysaccharide-based moisture with antioxidant benefits β a non-sticky, elegant alternative to HA alone.
Transparent Formulation
Geek & Gorgeous discloses every active, skips fragrance, essential oils, colorants, and drying alcohols β built for skincare geeks.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens β confirmed pregnancy-safe by the brand.
Formulated without fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Explicitly labeled malassezia-safe.
Oil-free, humectant-based formula with no ingredients known to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Plays beautifully with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHAs, and BHAs. Can even be mixed into your moisturizer.
Free from fragrance, essential oils, and common allergens. SkinSAFE rates it free of the top 11 allergens.
Like all HA serums, apply to damp skin and seal with a moisturizer β in very dry air, HA may draw moisture from the skin itself.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer High conc.Proven
A cross-linked, next-generation form of hyaluronic acid in which HA chains are chemically bound into a mesh. It binds water several times more effectively than traditional HA and delivers long-lasting surface hydration.
- Research: A 2016 study showed crosslinked HA reduced trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) by ~28%, outperforming standard high molecular weight HA (~16%).
- Function: Creates a humectant film on the skin for extended hydration.
Sodium Hyaluronate (High & Medium MW) Core activeProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid in two molecular weights. High MW HA sits on the surface for instant plumping and hydration; medium MW HA penetrates slightly deeper to strengthen the skin barrier.
- Capacity: HA can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Function: Surface plumping + barrier reinforcement.
Tremella Fuciformis (Snow Mushroom) Extract BoosterPromising
A polysaccharide from the silver ear mushroom, traditional in Asian medicine. Often called "nature's hyaluronic acid," it binds water through smaller molecules that glide onto skin without tackiness and contribute mild antioxidant action.
- Bonus: Contains glucuronic acid β one of the chemical building blocks of HA itself.
- Texture: Cosmetically elegant, non-sticky.
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (Low MW) Deep deliveryProven
A chemically chopped, smaller-molecule version of HA that penetrates further into the epidermis. Supports the skin's natural healing and defense mechanisms.
- Journal of Immunology (2008): Low MW HA increased skin's self-defense by inducing Ξ²-defensin 2 via TLR2 and TLR4.
- Clinical: Shown useful in treating rosacea-prone skin at topical concentrations.
Panthenol (Provitamin B5) SupportingProven
A classic, gold-standard skincare ingredient that soothes, moisturizes, and protects. Converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) in the skin and supports wound healing.
- Function: Humectant + anti-inflammatory + barrier support.
- Tolerance: Exceptionally well-tolerated β safe for sensitive and compromised skin.
Betaine & Glycerin Humectant baseProven
Two best-in-class, skin-identical humectants that draw moisture into the skin, soften, and leave a non-greasy velvety finish. Glycerin is effective from as low as 3%, with enhanced benefits for dry skin at higher percentages.
- Study (2016): Glycerin outperformed both AHAs and HA as a humectant.
- Synergy: Works hand-in-hand with HA for multi-mechanism hydration.
14 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to slightly damp skin for maximum effect, then always seal with a moisturizer to lock hydration in.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse and tone
Start with clean skin and apply your usual toner or hydrating mist. Leave skin slightly damp β do not let it fully dry.
Dispense 3β5 drops
Use the dropper to place 3β5 drops into your palm or directly onto your face. A little goes a long way.
Pat or press into skin
Gently pat (don't rub) the serum across your face, neck, and dΓ©colletage. Let it absorb for 30β60 seconds.
Seal with moisturizer
Immediately follow with a moisturizer or oil to trap hydration. This step is essential β especially in dry climates.
Use AM and/or PM
Safe for twice-daily use. You can also blend a few drops directly into your favorite moisturizer for an added boost.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, dry, or very dry skin
- Your skin feels tight, dehydrated, or looks dull
- You want plumped, bouncy skin with smoother fine lines
- You're building a sensitive-skin-safe routine
- You use retinol/vitamin C/acids and need gentle hydration support
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimalist, science-backed formulas
- You're pregnant or nursing and need a safe hydrator
- You're looking for a Malassezia-safe serum
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin that tends to feel heavy (try HA 5 Light instead)
- You live in a very dry climate and don't layer a moisturizer on top
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides in one product
- You need targeted treatment for pigmentation or breakouts
- You prefer richer cream-based hydrators over serums
- You want a larger bottle size (this is 30 ml only)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe "Rich" variant is specifically formulated for this skin type β deep, multi-layer hydration with a plumping, dewy finish.
Perfect daily hydrator that maintains skin's moisture balance without overwhelming the skin.
Works well on dry zones; those with very shiny T-zones may prefer HA 5 Light for a more weightless feel.
Can feel a little heavy on very oily skin β the lighter HA 5 Light version is a better match.
Fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, free of the top 11 allergens per SkinSAFE β ideal for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and Malassezia-safe β safe for fungal acne and congestion-prone skin.
Visibly plumps the appearance of fine dehydration lines and supports a bouncier, more youthful look.
Five molecular weights of HA target dehydration at multiple depths β a top-tier choice for tight, thirsty skin.
Results timeline
4β8 WEEKSPlump, Dewy Finish
Skin feels instantly softer and looks visibly more hydrated. The silky texture absorbs quickly without any tacky residue.
~90% noticeReduced Tightness
That "thirsty," dehydrated feeling fades. Skin feels more comfortable throughout the day and makeup applies more smoothly.
~75% noticeSofter Dehydration Lines
Fine lines caused by dehydration visibly smooth out. Skin appears bouncier, more elastic, and reflects light more evenly.
~65% noticeStronger Skin Barrier
With consistent use, the skin barrier is reinforced β less redness, fewer reactive flares, and better tolerance of active ingredients like retinol and acids.
~55% noticeRatings by platform
640+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Five molecular weights of HA target multiple skin layers
- Silky, elegant, non-sticky texture
- Transparent formulation with clinically proven actives
- Excellent value for money β flagship budget-science skincare
- Fragrance- and essential-oil-free
- Pregnancy-safe and Malassezia-safe
- Plays well with any active (retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA)
- Tremella mushroom extract adds a genuine formulation edge
Criticized
- Small 30 ml bottle β used quickly with daily application
- Frequently sells out on the official website
- Some dry-skin users still need a heavier cream on top
- Slightly slower to fully absorb than a watery essence
- Rich version may feel heavy on very oily skin
- Limited global availability vs. mainstream brands
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simpler formula with 3 molecular weights of HA (vs. 5) and B5. Lacks Tremella mushroom and betaine. Some users report a tackier feel and slower absorption. Still an excellent entry-level HA serum.
A J-beauty cult favorite with multiple HA types in a watery lotion format. Much larger size (170 ml), but simpler and less "silky" texture. Missing Tremella and panthenol for barrier support.
Features 8 forms of HA but a more watery, essence-like consistency. Similar goal, different feel β closer to a toner-essence than a rich serum.
DECIEM's luxury HA serum with 15 HA compounds at 1%. More experimental and noticeably lighter on skin β but more than four times the price for a similar core benefit.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
NIOD MMHC2
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened: up to 2 years from production date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can extend freshness.
30 ml glass bottle with dropper applicator. Hygienic and precise dispensing.
Yes β well under the 100 ml TSA/EU carry-on liquid limit. Glass dropper bottle, so pack securely.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. HA 5 Rich is explicitly labeled pregnancy-safe by Geek & Gorgeous. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens β the ingredient categories typically restricted during pregnancy and nursing. All active ingredients (hyaluronic acid, betaine, glycerin, Tremella extract, panthenol) are considered safe topically during pregnancy and lactation. As always, we recommend confirming with your OB/GYN or dermatologist if you have concerns.
Yes. Geek & Gorgeous explicitly labels this product Malassezia-safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast β the microorganism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). It's a great option for those dealing with small, itchy, uniform bumps along the forehead, chest, or back.
Absolutely β in fact, it's an ideal pairing. Hyaluronic acid is non-reactive with all major actives and helps buffer irritation from retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply the active first (on dry skin), wait a minute or two, then apply HA 5 Rich to replenish hydration. It plays especially well with Geek & Gorgeous' own C-Glow vitamin C serum and retinal treatments.
The "Rich" version is specifically designed for normal to dry and very dry skin. If you have combination or oily skin, the brand's HA 5 Light is formulated for you. That said, HA 5 Rich is well-tolerated by sensitive, acne-prone, mature, and dehydrated skin β essentially anyone whose skin feels tight, dull, or thirsty will benefit.
Most users notice an immediate improvement in hydration, plumpness, and dewy glow from the first application. Reduced tightness and smoother makeup application typically show up within 3β7 days. Visibly softer dehydration lines and a more bouncy, elastic skin feel usually emerge at the 2β4 week mark with consistent daily use. Barrier improvements continue over 4β8 weeks.
After cleansing and toning, and after any thin water-based treatments (like exfoliating acids) have absorbed β but before oils, emulsions, moisturizers, and sunscreen. General rule: thinnest to thickest. Apply to slightly damp skin for maximum effect, and always seal with a moisturizer so the humectants don't pull moisture out of your skin in dry environments.
No. HA 5 Rich has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is oil-free and built around humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, betaine) β none of which are pore-clogging. It's considered non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. Combined with its Malassezia-safe profile, it's one of the safest hydrators for congestion-prone complexions.
The period after opening (PAO) is 12 months. Unopened, the product has a shelf life of up to 2 years from production. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Since it's housed in a glass dropper bottle, refrigeration is safe and can help extend freshness β especially in warmer climates. Discard if you notice any change in color, scent, or consistency.
Verdict: Geek & Gorgeous HA 5 Rich is one of the most intelligently formulated, transparent, and affordable hyaluronic acid serums on the market today. By combining 5 molecular weights of HA with Tremella mushroom extract, panthenol, betaine, and glycerin, it delivers genuinely multi-layered hydration that most single-ingredient HA serums can't match. It's pregnancy-safe, Malassezia-safe, non-comedogenic, and sensitive-skin friendly β while still being one of the best values per milliliter in science-backed skincare. The only real drawbacks are the small 30 ml bottle and frequent stock issues. For dry, normal, dehydrated, or mature skin seeking a no-nonsense, efficacious hydrator, this is a top-shelf choice at a budget-friendly price.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|