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Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum

Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A professional-grade, oil-free hydrating serum featuring Ultraceuticals' exclusive B² technology — Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Panthenol (Provitamin B5) — paired with a Triple-HA Complex of three forms of Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates 5 layers deep to deliver instant, long-lasting hydration while visibly plumping skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

Oil-Free Paraben-Free Fragrance-Free Silicone-Free All Skin Types Clinically Tested Ophthalmologically Tested Pregnancy Safe Fungal Acne Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
30ml / 1.01 fl oz
Type
Hydrating Serum
pH
~5.0 – 6.0
Use
AM & PM
Grade
Cosmeceutical
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Triple-HA Complex

Three forms of Hyaluronic Acid (HA-Macro, AC-Hyal, HA-Micro) penetrate 5 skin layers deep for multi-level hydration that lasts.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel-Serum
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Under 30 seconds
Finish
Dewy & Supple

Triple-HA Complex

Three forms of Hyaluronic Acid (HA-Macro, AC-Hyal, HA-Micro) penetrate 5 skin layers deep for multi-level hydration that lasts.

B² Barrier Technology

Niacinamide (B3) + Panthenol (B5) work in synergy to strengthen the skin barrier, soothe dryness, and regulate sebum production.

Visible Plumping Effect

100% of clinical trial participants felt instant hydration. Clinically proven to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles in 4 weeks.

Doctor-Developed Formula

Founded by cosmetic physician Dr. Geoffrey Heber with 25+ years of Australian cosmeceutical R&D. Clean, minimal 14-ingredient formula.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.

Sensitive Skin & Eyes Tested

Ophthalmologically tested and suitable for sensitive eyes. Low irritation potential confirmed by independent ingredient analysis.

Non-Comedogenic

Oil-free, silicone-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Will not clog pores or contribute to breakouts.

Compatible with Active Ingredients

Safe to layer with Vitamin C, Retinol, AHAs, and BHAs. Niacinamide pairs well with virtually all actives.

Patch Test Recommended

As with any new skincare product, a patch test is recommended for very reactive skin types despite the gentle formulation.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~3.6–5.4%Proven

A well-studied multi-tasking active that strengthens the skin barrier, evens skin tone, reduces excess sebum, and fights signs of aging. One half of the B² technology that gives this serum its name.

  • Barrier Support: Boosts ceramide synthesis for stronger, healthier skin at concentrations above 2%.
  • Oil Control: Clinically shown to regulate sebum production at 4–5% concentration.
  • Anti-Aging: Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation with consistent use over 8–12 weeks.
Pairs safely with Vitamin C, Retinol, and all acids. One of the most versatile actives in skincare.

Panthenol (Provitamin B5) ~2.7–4.0%Proven

The second B vitamin in the B² formula. A powerful humectant and skin-soothing agent that penetrates deeper than many moisturizing ingredients to deliver lasting hydration and support the skin's natural repair cycle.

  • Deep Hydration: Humectant that attracts and holds water within the skin for extended moisture retention.
  • Barrier Repair: Stimulates lipid synthesis to support and rebuild the skin's protective barrier.
  • Soothing: Anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness, irritation, and sensitivity. Comedogenicity rating of 0.

Triple-HA Complex ~2.0–3.0%Proven

Ultraceuticals' proprietary blend of three molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid designed to hydrate all 5 layers of the epidermis simultaneously.

  • HA-Macro (High MW): Sits on the skin surface like a sponge, holding up to 1000x its weight in water for instant hydration.
  • AC-Hyal (Acetylated HA): Modified HA with high skin affinity that binds more effectively to skin cells for extended, enduring hydration.
  • HA-Micro (Low MW): Small enough to penetrate into deeper skin layers, improving firmness and hydration from within.

Cucumber Fruit ExtractPromising

A soothing botanical extract rich in vitamins and antioxidants that calms and refreshes the skin while providing additional hydration and a cooling sensation.

  • Soothing: Contains cucurbitacins and flavonoids that help calm irritated, stressed skin.
  • Antioxidant: Protects against free radical damage and environmental stressors.

Supporting HumectantsProven

Additional moisture-binding ingredients that work alongside the key actives to maximize hydration.

  • Sodium PCA (~1.1–1.6%): A natural moisturizing factor (NMF) found in human skin that helps retain water.
  • Glycerin (~0.55–1.25%): One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare.
  • Trehalose (~0.15–0.55%): A sugar-derived humectant that protects skin cells from dehydration stress.
  • Propanediol: Corn-derived moisturizer and solvent that softens, hydrates, and improves ingredient absorption.

14 ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium PCA, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Trehalose, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Silicones, Sulfates, Oils, Fragrances, Drying Alcohols, PEGs, Propylene Glycol, Pore-Clogging Ingredients, Fungal Acne Triggers, Gluten, Coconut Derivatives, Petroleum-Based Ingredients
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Corrective Serum
4
Ultra B² Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Apply after corrective serums (Vitamin C AM / Retinol PM) and before moisturizer to seal in all benefits. Use morning and night. Remember: ABC — Ultra C in the AM, Ultra A at night, Ultra B² at both.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse

Start with clean skin. Use your preferred cleanser on face and neck, then pat dry gently.

2

Apply Corrective Serums (Optional)

If using Vitamin C (AM) or Retinol (PM) serums, apply those first and allow to absorb before layering B².

3

Dispense 2–3 Pumps

Pump the serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — 2–3 pumps covers the entire face and neck.

4

Massage & Press In

Gently massage onto face and neck in upward motions, then press into skin with palms to aid absorption. Avoid the eye area.

5

Lock In & Protect

Follow immediately with your moisturizer to seal in hydration. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • Your skin feels dehydrated, tight, or dull and needs a moisture boost
  • You want to layer a hydrating serum under your moisturizer without heaviness
  • You have fine lines or dehydration lines you'd like to plump
  • You need a pregnancy-safe and fungal acne-safe hydrating serum
  • You prefer a clean, minimal ingredient list with proven actives
  • You want a versatile serum that works AM & PM with any routine
  • You use at-home dermaplaning, microneedling, or shaving and need a slip serum

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need a heavy-duty occlusive moisturizer (this is a serum, not a cream)
  • You're looking for targeted anti-aging with Retinol or Vitamin C (use those in addition)
  • You have a very strict budget — this is a professional-grade, premium-priced product
  • You prefer a richer, oil-based serum for very dry, flaky skin
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

Delivers intense multi-layer hydration with Triple-HA Complex. Panthenol repairs and soothes chronically dry skin. Layer with a rich moisturizer for best results.

Oily Skin
Excellent

Oil-free, lightweight gel texture absorbs instantly without adding shine. Niacinamide actively helps regulate excess sebum production.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances hydration across different face zones beautifully. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming the T-zone.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Fragrance-free, ophthalmologically tested, and formulated with soothing Panthenol and Cucumber Extract. Minimal 14-ingredient formula reduces irritation risk.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, oil-free, fungal acne safe. Niacinamide actively reduces breakouts and clogged pores while hydrating without triggering acne.

Mature Skin
Good

Plumps fine lines and dehydration lines effectively. For advanced anti-aging, pair with Ultraceuticals' Retinol (PM) and Vitamin C (AM) corrective serums.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 4–8
Immediately

Instant Hydration & Plumping

Skin feels instantly hydrated, soft, and plumped upon first application. The lightweight gel-serum absorbs within seconds, leaving a dewy, supple finish.

100% felt instant hydration
Week 1–2

Improved Moisture Retention

Skin begins to feel consistently more hydrated throughout the day. Tightness and flaking are reduced. The skin barrier starts to strengthen from the Niacinamide and Panthenol.

80% felt long-lasting hydration
Week 2–4

Visible Plumping & Smoothing

Fine lines and dehydration lines appear visibly reduced. Skin texture becomes smoother and more refined. Overall complexion looks more radiant and healthy.

~85% noticed improvement in fine lines
Week 4–8

Barrier Strengthening & Tone Improvement

Niacinamide delivers cumulative benefits: reduced redness, more even skin tone, tighter pores, and a stronger, more resilient skin barrier. Skin looks visibly healthier and more youthful.

~90% reported healthier-looking skin
09

Ratings by platform

REVIEWS
Ultraceuticals Official
5.0
Rating
Best-Seller
Status
Main complaint: Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use
ProductReview.com.au
5.0
Rating
Verified
Reviews
Main complaint: Premium price point — but users say the results justify it
David Jones
5.0
Rating
Featured
Product
Main complaint: Only available through authorized retailers, not widely stocked
WhatsinMyJar (WIMJ)
100
Efficacy Score
Low
Irritation Risk
Note: Science-backed analysis confirms effective concentrations of all key actives
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Instant hydration that feels immediately plumping and dewy
  • Lightweight, oil-free texture that layers beautifully under makeup
  • Clean 14-ingredient formula with no unnecessary fillers
  • Triple-HA Complex provides multi-depth hydration unlike single-HA serums
  • Safe for all skin types including sensitive, acne-prone, and during pregnancy
  • Niacinamide provides anti-aging and brightening benefits beyond just hydration
  • Doctor-developed with clinical trial backing and cosmeceutical-grade formulation
  • Great as a slip serum for dermaplaning and microneedling

Criticized

  • Premium price for a 30ml bottle (~$89 USD) — limited availability of larger sizes
  • Only available through authorized channels, not on major retailers like Amazon or Sephora
  • 30ml runs out within 4–6 weeks with recommended twice-daily use
  • May not be hydrating enough alone for very dry, flaky skin — needs moisturizer on top
  • Limited shade/variant options — one formula for everyone
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
$8.90
Budget Pick

Contains Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol (B5) like B², but lacks Niacinamide and uses only standard HA molecular weights instead of the Triple-HA Complex. Simpler formula at a fraction of the price.

75% Match
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$6.50
Budget Pick

Higher Niacinamide concentration for oil control and pore refinement, but lacks the HA complex and Panthenol. More targeted at oily/acne skin than general hydration.

78% Match
Hyalu B5 Eyes Serum
$39.99
Mid-Range

Similar B5 + HA concept with two molecular weights of HA and Madecassoside for soothing. More widely available but uses a different active approach and includes more ingredients.

70% Match
Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment
$44.00
Mid-Range

Much higher Niacinamide concentration focused on pores and oil control. Lacks the Triple-HA hydration complex. Better for oily skin concerns than universal hydration.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Hyalu B5 Eyes Serum
Key Actives Panthenol + HA + Madecassoside
Size 30ml
HA Types 2 molecular weights
Ingredient Count 20+
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Hydrating B5 Gel
Key Actives Panthenol + HA
Size 30ml
HA Types 1 form
Ingredient Count 10
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Pycnogenol 5%
Key Actives Panthenol + HA
Size 30ml
HA Types Multi-weight HA
Ingredient Count 15
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
13

Storage & shelf life

6 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

6 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required, but refrigerating can enhance the cooling, soothing effect.

Packaging

Airless pump bottle — protects active ingredients from oxidation and contamination, ensures hygienic dispensing.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact pump bottle fits easily in any travel bag.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The Ultra B² Hydrating Serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — all ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. The formula consists of gentle humectants (Niacinamide, Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin) and soothing botanicals (Cucumber Extract) that are widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.

Yes. The formula is free from ferments, fatty acids (like oleic and stearic acid), esters, polysorbates, and oils — all known triggers for malassezia overgrowth. The clean 14-ingredient list has been verified as fungal acne safe by independent ingredient analysis databases. This makes it an excellent hydrating serum choice for those prone to fungal acne.

Yes. Niacinamide is one of the most compatible active ingredients in skincare and pairs safely with virtually all other actives. Ultraceuticals specifically recommends using the ABC method: Ultra C (Vitamin C) in the morning, Ultra A (Retinol) at night, and Ultra B² at both AM and PM. Apply corrective serums first, then layer Ultra B² on top to seal in hydration before moisturizer.

Ultra B² is formulated for all skin types — dry, oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone. The oil-free, lightweight texture makes it especially popular with oily and combination skin types, while the Triple-HA Complex delivers deep enough hydration for dry skin when followed by a moisturizer. It is also ophthalmologically tested for sensitive eyes and suitable for reactive, sensitized skin.

Hydration benefits are immediate — 100% of clinical trial participants felt instant hydration upon application. Visible plumping and reduction of fine lines typically begin within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full barrier-strengthening, skin tone evening, and anti-aging benefits from Niacinamide develop over 6–8 weeks of regular use.

Apply after cleansing and any corrective serums (Vitamin C in the AM, Retinol in the PM), but before your moisturizer and sunscreen. Ultra B² acts as a hydration booster that seals in the benefits of your treatment serums while prepping skin for your moisturizer. Use 2–3 pumps on face and neck, morning and night.

No. With a comedogenic rating of 1/5, this oil-free, silicone-free serum is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. The Niacinamide in the formula actually helps to minimize the appearance of pores and regulate sebum production, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin rather than problematic.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 6 months. With twice-daily use of 2–3 pumps, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 weeks. The airless pump packaging helps protect the formula from oxidation and contamination, preserving ingredient efficacy throughout the PAO period. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Ultraceuticals Ultra B² Hydrating Serum is a standout professional-grade hydrating serum with a beautifully clean, minimal 14-ingredient formula that punches well above its weight. The Triple-HA Complex delivers genuinely multi-level hydration, while the Niacinamide and Panthenol B² technology adds barrier-strengthening, oil-regulating, and anti-aging benefits that most hydrating serums simply don't offer. It's pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, suitable for every skin type, and backed by clinical testing. The only drawback is the premium price for a 30ml bottle — but for those who value a doctor-developed, cosmeceutical-grade formula with proven active concentrations and an impeccable safety profile, it's a worthy investment in skin health.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Panthenol Sodium Hyaluronate Glycerin Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
85% 7% 7%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 14 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 Unknown
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
1 A
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
1 A
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
1 A
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS