The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Versus Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum with Niacinamide 5%
Updated on March 07, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe serums. They have a total of 2 ingredients in common
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for dry skin, sensitive skin, scar healing and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum with Niacinamide 5% 15 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum with Niacinamide 5% 15 ingredients
Benefits
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Ingredients Side-by-side
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Masking
Tranexamic Acid
Astringent
Niacinamide
Smoothing
Glycereth-26
Humectant
Betaine
Humectant
Propanediol
Solvent
1,2-Hexanediol
Skin Conditioning
Sodium Hyaluronate
Humectant
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning
Xanthan Gum
EmulsifyingCitric Acid
Buffering
Camellia Sinensis Leaf
Perfuming
Sambucus Nigra Flower
Skin ConditioningMomordica Charantia Fruit Extract
Skin ConditioningLeontopodium Alpinum Callus Lysate
Skin ConditioningIngredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Propanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolCitric Acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits (think oranges, lemons, and limes!).
As an AHA, Citric Acid removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath. This helps skin to remove dark spots and even out skin tone.
If you spot Citric Acid near the end of an ingredient list, it's likely there as a pH adjuster rather than an active ingredient.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
Learn more about Citric AcidIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum with Niacinamide 5% 15 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum with Niacinamide 5% 15 ingredients
Did a patch test on my arm to see if it works for hyperpigmentation - tried for 3 days (once a day) and my arm had small pimples/ irritation bumps! I never have breakouts on my body.
Don’t know if the concentrations are too potent (even for the body) or the formulation is just bad.
I think this is one of the best serums for hyperpigmentation IF you are a BEGINNER (keep that in mind), I have sensitive skin and I find it very soothing but didn’t see much results.
Also this serum is quite sticky so I recommend you that after you apply it on your face, leave it for 10-15 minutes so your skin can fully absorb the product. Then you can use other products as you wish. Hope it Show more
