Navigating the skincare aisle can be overwhelming—especially when you’re on the hunt for the perfect hydrating serum. Among the most talked-about options are Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. While both serums highlight hyaluronic acid as the key ingredient for moisture retention and improved skin elasticity, they differ significantly in formulation, texture, and price.
In this comparison, we’ll break down both products to help you decide which one aligns best with your skin’s needs and your budget.
In This Guide:
- Overview of Each Product
- Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Texture and Feel
- Ideal Usage and Application
- Price Comparison
- Final Verdict: Which Serum is Better for You?
Overview: Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum vs The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Dr. Barbara Sturm is a luxury skincare brand based in Düsseldorf, Germany, created by Dr. Barbara Sturm, a former orthopedic surgeon turned skincare innovator. The brand emphasizes clean science, high-performance ingredients, and premium formulations. The Hyaluronic Serum is one of the brand’s hero products, designed to deliver deep hydration and visibly plumper skin using low- and high-molecular-weight hyaluronic molecules.
In contrast, The Ordinary has disrupted the beauty industry by offering high-quality, ingredient-focused skincare at affordable prices. The Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum is one of its bestsellers, known for combining multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5 for deep hydration and skin barrier support.
Although both products target dryness and dehydration, their price points, textures, and formulations differ greatly.
Ingredients Comparison
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum
- Hyaluronic Acid (low and high molecular weight): Provides hydration to both the surface and deeper layers of the skin.
- Purslane Extract: A potent antioxidant known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and protective benefits.
The serum offers instant and long-lasting hydration, improving skin texture, elasticity, and radiance. The high molecular weight HA hydrates the surface, while the low molecular weight HA penetrates deeper layers to enhance firmness over time.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Sodium Hyaluronate: A stable, water-soluble form of HA that binds moisture to the skin.
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: A next-gen HA that holds five times more moisture than traditional forms.
- Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): Attracts and retains water while soothing and healing the skin.
- Ahnfeltia Concinna Extract: Helps stimulate circulation.
- Glycerin: Boosts hydration and reinforces the skin barrier.
This serum includes low-, medium-, and high-weight HA molecules for multi-layer hydration, making it an excellent daily hydrator for all skin types.
Texture & Consistency
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum
- Consistency: Clear, slightly viscous, similar to a light syrup.
- Feel on Skin: Lightweight and smooth, absorbs quickly with no greasy residue.
- Fragrance: Fragrance-free and unscented—ideal for sensitive skin.
- Finish: Leaves the skin feeling instantly refreshed, hydrated, and plumped.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Consistency: Watery, runny serum.
- Feel on Skin: Very lightweight, spreads easily and absorbs quickly.
- Fragrance: Odorless and non-irritating.
- Finish: Leaves the skin feeling fresh, hydrated, and ready for layering with other products.
Ideal Usage and Application Tips
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum
- Recommended For: All skin types, including sensitive or dull skin.
- Application: Dispense a full pipette into your palm, apply evenly to the face, neck, and around the eyes, then pat gently.
- Pro Tip: Store in the fridge for an added cooling effect—recommended by Dr. Barbara Sturm herself.
- Routine Position: Use after cleansing and before moisturizers or facial oils, both morning and evening.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Recommended For: All skin types; especially effective for dry or dehydrated skin.
- Application: Apply a few drops to damp skin after cleansing, before creams or oils.
- Routine Position: Can be used morning and night; works well under other serums or makeup.
- Pro Tip: Mix with other compatible serums or moisturizers to enhance hydration.
Both products are gentle and versatile enough to be used twice daily.
Price Comparison
| Product | Size | Approximate Price |
| Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum | 10ml | ~$102 |
| 30ml | ~$307–$320 | |
| 100ml | ~$753 | |
| The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | 30ml | ~$7–$9 |
There’s a significant price gap between the two. Dr. Barbara Sturm’s serum is positioned as a luxury product, while The Ordinary offers high efficacy at a fraction of the cost.
The higher price tag of Sturm’s product reflects brand prestige, advanced research, and ingredient sourcing—but it doesn’t necessarily equate to better performance for everyone.
Conclusion: Which Serum Should You Buy?
Both Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 deliver on their promise of hydration—but they cater to very different skincare audiences.
Choose Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum if:
- You prefer luxury skincare with a premium formulation.
- You’re looking for an elegant texture with both immediate and long-term hydration benefits.
- You don’t mind a high-end price for advanced ingredients and a prestige brand.
Choose The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 if:
- You’re looking for an affordable, effective serum.
- You want a no-frills formula that gets the job done without unnecessary extras.
- You’re building a minimalist skincare routine on a budget.
Ultimately, both serums can help you achieve plump, hydrated, and healthier-looking skin. The best choice comes down to your personal skincare goals, lifestyle, and budget.