Hydration Science: Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5
Skincare Science · 2026
Hydration Science: Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5
Hyaluronic acid and panthenol (vitamin B5) are two of the most-used hydration actives in modern skincare. Used together, they support immediate moisture and longer-term barrier comfort.
Hyaluronic acid: water-binding in the skin
Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan naturally produced in human skin where it binds water in the extracellular matrix. Topical formulations use hyaluronic acid in a range of molecular weights. Higher-molecular-weight HA tends to sit on the skin surface forming a hydrating film, while lower-molecular-weight fragments penetrate further into the upper epidermis. A 2011 paper in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology compared cream formulations containing hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights and reported visible improvements in wrinkle parameters and hydration.[1]
Vitamin B5 (panthenol)
Panthenol is the alcohol form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). On topical application it converts to pantothenic acid in the skin and is well-known for its humectant and skin-soothing properties. A 2023 paper in Skin Research and Technology using confocal Raman micro-spectroscopy reported that topical dexpanthenol modulated physiological parameters of the stratum corneum.[2] In dermatology more broadly, panthenol is used for skin comfort and to support recovery of dry, irritated skin.
Hydr8 B5® at Verdo
Medik8®'s Hydr8 B5® combines multi-weight hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5 in a serum format suitable for daily use morning and evening. The line includes:
- Hydr8 B5® — original lightweight hydration serum
- Hydr8 B5® Intense — higher concentration for very dry or compromised skin
How to layer hydration in your routine
- Apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing or toning.
- Press into the skin rather than rubbing.
- Follow with moisturiser to seal in the water that hyaluronic acid pulls in — without an occluding step, water can evaporate.
- Layers well with vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, and retinoids — hydration actives are routine staples that complement most other ingredients.
Featured Medik8® hydration products
Shop Medik8® Hydr8 B5® in NZ
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Shop Hydr8 B5® →References
- Pavicic T et al. (2011). Efficacy of cream-based novel formulations of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in anti-wrinkle treatment. J Drugs Dermatol. View
- Porto Ferreira VT et al. (2023). Topical dexpanthenol effects on physiological parameters of the stratum corneum by Confocal Raman Microspectroscopy. Skin Res Technol. View
