Medik8 Hydr8 B5 and Hydr8 B5 Intense are hydrating serums, not exfoliating acids or retinal treatments. Both centre on hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. Intense adds further hydration-supporting ingredients, making the choice about your preferred formula and routine rather than choosing a higher “strength” of an exfoliant.
What does Hydr8 B5 do in a routine?
Hydr8 B5 is a lightweight serum option when you want a dedicated hydration step. It belongs after cleansing and before your moisturiser, following the directions on the bottle.
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, so the word “acid” here does not mean the product is intended to act like a glycolic peel. Do not group every ingredient with “acid” in its name into one type of skincare.
What makes Hydr8 B5 Intense different?
Hydr8 B5 Intense builds on that hydration focus with additional ingredients, including components of the skin’s natural moisturising factors and saskatoon berry extract. Compare the full formula if you have a known sensitivity.
“Intense” is not a requirement to apply more drops or to use both serums together. It is usually more useful to choose one hydration serum and assess it within a consistent routine than to layer two products with very similar jobs.
Which one should you choose?
- You want a straightforward hydration step: start by comparing Hydr8 B5.
- You want the expanded Intense formula: review its additional ingredients and texture.
- Your routine already feels comfortable: consider whether another serum adds a role you actually need.
- Skin is persistently sore or peeling: review the cause rather than assuming a hydration serum will make an irritating routine suitable.
How to layer a hydration serum
Use the product on clean skin as directed, then follow with moisturiser. During the day, finish with sunscreen. If you also use vitamin C, retinal or another treatment, follow the sequence and frequency recommended for those exact products.
Keep the amount manageable. If layers roll into small flakes on the skin, try reducing unnecessary products and allowing each step to settle rather than rubbing harder. Do not change the amount of sunscreen to solve a texture problem.
Is Hydr8 B5 a moisturiser?
It is a serum step. A cream or lotion has a different texture and role, so decide on your moisturiser separately. You do not have to select a matching brand for every step, but you should understand what each product is doing.
Can oily skin need hydration?
Oiliness and a feeling of dehydration can occur together. Choose by your skin’s comfort and the finished routine rather than assuming every hydrating product must be rich or greasy.
Is it the same as Crystal Retinal?
No. Hydr8 B5 products focus on hydration. Crystal Retinal is a separate vitamin A range with different directions and cautions. Our Crystal Retinal strength guide explains that choice if it is relevant to your routine.
Explore Medik8 at Flawless Body and check the current product page for sizes, ingredients and availability.
Product guidance: manufacturer’s information. Follow the directions on your own packaging, which may change with product updates.