Vitamin B5 4% + Niacinamide 2% Serum
Vitamin B5 4% + Niacinamide 2% Serum
Product Description
A lightweight, fast-absorbing hydrating serum featuring 4% D-Panthenol (Vitamin B5) and 2% Niacinamide to heal, repair, and deeply moisturize skin while strengthening the moisture barrier and reducing fine lines.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Intense Hydration
D-Panthenol draws moisture from the atmosphere and locks it into your skin for long-lasting hydration.
Barrier Repair
Strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier, helping to prevent transepidermal water loss.
Skin Smoothing
Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and improves overall skin texture.
Wound Healing
Panthenol has clinically-proven wound healing properties, helping to repair damaged skin tissue.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. Panthenol and niacinamide are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that can feed the fungus responsible for fungal acne.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Contains no pore-clogging ingredients, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
While gentle for most skin types, those with very sensitive skin or uncommon allergies should patch test behind the ear or under the chin for 24 hours before full use.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ D-Panthenol (Vitamin B5) 4% Proven
A pro-vitamin that converts to pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) when absorbed by the skin. Acts as a powerful humectant and has anti-inflammatory, skin-protecting, and wound-healing properties.
- Hydration: Attracts water from the atmosphere and binds it to the skin for long-lasting moisture.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates lipid synthesis in the skin to strengthen the moisture barrier.
- Healing: Clinically proven to accelerate wound healing and reduce skin irritation.
β¨ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2% Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar with clinically proven benefits for brightening, barrier repair, anti-aging, and sebum regulation.
- Ceramide Synthesis: Increases ceramide production for a stronger, healthier skin barrier.
- Brightening: Helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time.
- Anti-Aging: Shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles at concentrations of 4-5%.
π Sodium Hyaluronate Present Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Provides deep hydration and helps plump the skin.
- Hydration: One of the best moisturizing ingredients available, attracting water to the skin's surface.
- Plumping: Temporarily reduces the appearance of fine lines by hydrating the skin.
πΏ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Base Soothing
The serum uses aloe vera extract as its primary base instead of water (N.O.I.P 72%), providing additional soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing benefits.
- Soothing: Contains vitamins, amino acids, and polysaccharides that reduce irritation and redness.
- Moisturizing: High water content provides a cooling, hydrating effect.
14 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Glycerin, Panthenol (Vitamin B5 4%), Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Rosa Damascena Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizers. Can be used both morning and night. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean skin. For best results, leave skin slightly damp after toner application.
Dispense
Apply 2-3 drops of serum to your fingertips or palm. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply & Massage
Gently pat and press the serum onto face, neck, and dΓ©colletage. Use light upward motions to help absorption.
Wait & Layer
Allow 30-60 seconds for the serum to absorb before applying your next skincare step (treatment serum or moisturizer).
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or dull skin
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier
- You're looking for a gentle, hydrating serum
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You struggle with fungal acne
- You want a budget-friendly K-beauty serum
- You prefer fragrance-free products
β Consider alternatives if:
- You need intensive anti-aging treatments
- You want high-concentration niacinamide (5-10%)
- You dislike slightly tacky textures
- You prefer alcohol-based quick-absorbing formulas
- You're looking for oil-control benefits
- You want ceramides in your formula
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Perfect match! Panthenol and hyaluronic acid provide intense hydration. Layer with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Lightweight formula absorbs well without adding grease. May feel slightly tacky if over-applied. Use sparingly.
Balances hydration across different face zones without overwhelming oily areas or neglecting dry patches.
Fragrance-free, gentle formula with soothing aloe and allantoin. Panthenol reduces irritation. Patch test first.
Non-comedogenic (0/5) and fungal acne safe. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum and reduce inflammation.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately softer, plumper, and more hydrated after application. Noticeable dewy finish.
95% noticedImproved Moisture Retention
Skin stays hydrated longer throughout the day. Reduced tightness and dryness, especially in dry climates or winter months.
85% noticedBarrier Strengthening
Reduced sensitivity and irritation. Skin feels more resilient and bouncy. Fine dehydration lines appear less visible.
75% noticedOverall Skin Health
Healthier, plumper skin with improved texture. Better results from other skincare products due to strengthened barrier.
70% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptional value for money at under $15
- Clean, minimal ingredient list (14 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Fungal acne and pregnancy safe
- Noticeable hydration and plumping effect
- Vegan and cruelty-free certification
- Works well under makeup
- Aloe-based formula provides extra soothing
β Criticized
- Texture can feel slightly tacky/sticky
- Small 30ml bottle size
- Lower niacinamide concentration (2%)
- Simple dropper bottle (no pump)
- May pill under some products if not fully absorbed
- Not as effective in very humid climates
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Reformulated with 5 forms of HA plus ceramides and panthenol. Similar hydrating benefits but adds barrier-supporting ceramides. Slightly more refined texture post-reformulation.
Contains 2% HA with Matrixyl peptide instead of panthenol. Better for anti-aging concerns but lacks the soothing/healing benefits of B5. Non-sticky texture.
Gel-cream formula with panthenol and deep sea water. More occlusive than a serum. Good option if you want hydration and light moisture in one step.
π Comparison with Competitors
Cos de BAHA Vitamin B5 4% (This Product)
$12.99The Ordinary HA 2% + B5
$9.90La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum
$39.99Geek & Gorgeous HA 5 Rich
$10.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required, but can be stored in the fridge for a cooling effect.
Frosted glass dropper bottle with plastic dropper cap. Protects formula from light degradation.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this serum is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Both panthenol (Vitamin B5) and niacinamide are gentle ingredients that are widely considered safe for use during pregnancy. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed panthenol as safe in cosmetics. However, as with any skincare product, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. It does not contain any of the ingredients known to feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne, including fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients. The formula has been verified as FA-safe by multiple ingredient analysis tools including SkinCarisma.
Yes! Panthenol and niacinamide are highly compatible with most active ingredients. In fact, panthenol can help reduce irritation from stronger actives like retinol, AHAs, and BHAs. You can use this serum in the same routine as vitamin C, retinol, or chemical exfoliants. Apply this hydrating serum after water-based treatments and before heavier products. If using with retinol or acids, this serum can help buffer potential irritation.
This serum works excellently for all skin types but is especially beneficial for dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and compromised skin. It's ideal for anyone looking to strengthen their skin barrier, increase hydration, or soothe irritation. The lightweight formula also works well for combination and oily skin types, though those with very oily skin in humid climates may find the texture slightly tacky.
Immediate results include instant hydration and a plumper, dewier appearance. Within 1-2 weeks, you should notice improved moisture retention and less dry, tight skin. After 3-4 weeks of consistent use, expect strengthened skin barrier function, reduced sensitivity, and diminished appearance of fine dehydration lines. For full barrier repair benefits, use consistently for 6-8 weeks.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and oils. The general rule is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. This lightweight serum should come early in your routine. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin to help the hyaluronic acid draw in more moisture. Can be used both morning and evening.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it contains no pore-clogging ingredients. Independent ingredient analysis confirms zero comedogenic ingredients in the formula. It's safe for acne-prone skin and will not cause breakouts or clog pores when used as directed.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: The Cos de BAHA Vitamin B5 4% + Niacinamide 2% Serum delivers exceptional value as a clean, gentle hydrating serum. With its fungal acne-safe and pregnancy-safe formula featuring 4% D-Panthenol, it effectively hydrates, soothes, and strengthens the skin barrier at a budget-friendly price point. While the texture can be slightly tacky and the niacinamide concentration is on the lower side, this K-beauty gem earns its place as an excellent daily hydrator for anyone seeking simple, effective skincare without irritating ingredients. Highly recommended for sensitive, dry, and compromised skin types seeking barrier repair.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Pantothenic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|