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If you’re aiming for vibrant, well-hydrated skin (even when facing winter’s dryness or high humidity), hyaluronic acid serums could become your next skincare ally. Despite its name, "acid" shouldn’t concern you—it’s a naturally gentle ingredient capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This translates to a significant moisture boost for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Integrate a quality hyaluronic acid (HA) serum into your routine, pair it with a luxurious moisturizer, and you’ll maintain a plump, healthy complexion year-round.
Wondering where to start? We’ve consulted dermatologists to gather all the essential information about hyaluronic acid serums and guide you in selecting the best one for your skin type. Here are 14 top-rated hyaluronic acid skincare products to explore.
The best hyaluronic acid serums at a glance:
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring sugar molecule present in the body, especially in the skin, eyes, and connective tissues. It is crucial for maintaining skin hydration and structural integrity, and it acts as a natural lubricant in joints. HA is a highly effective humectant, attracting and retaining up to 1,000 times its weight in water. "Since hyaluronic acid helps draw in moisture, it enhances skin hydration and also plumps fine lines, wrinkles, and areas of facial volume loss," explains Dr. Garshick.
This makes hyaluronic acid a preferred ingredient in skincare products, known for its ability to enhance moisture, smooth fine lines, and restore lost volume for a youthful, refreshed look. Contrary to its name, hyaluronic acid isn’t harsh; it’s a gentle, moisture-binding molecule essential for keeping skin plump and healthy.
For optimal results, apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin. “After cleansing your face or showering, ensure your skin is damp and immediately apply your hyaluronic acid,” advises Dr. Lal. This will further hydrate your skin and seal in moisture.
Shop 14 of the best hyaluronic acid serum products
Skinceuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan is a top-tier serum that increases your skin’s hyaluronic acid levels by 30 percent, providing a plump, hydrated appearance for a full day. By combining a high concentration of hyaluronic acid and proxylane, it aids in moisture retention and diminishes fine lines over time. "Licorice root and purple rice support hyaluronic acid, boosting overall firmness, plumpness, and reducing sagging," remarks Dr. Garshick.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, proxylane, licorice root, purple rice
Pros:
- Potent formula
- Contains ingredients that enhance hyaluronic acid
- Improves natural skin moisture
Cons:
- High price point
- Thick texture
Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum proves that affordable products can be highly effective—with over 8,000 positive reviews and a nearly perfect rating on Amazon. Formulated with two types of hyaluronic acid at varying molecular weights, it provides lasting moisture, leaving skin smooth, supple, and well-hydrated. Its water-like texture absorbs quickly and layers seamlessly with other products, eliminating concerns about pilling.
Key ingredients: Propanediol, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate
Pros:
- Affordable
- Minimal ingredients
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- Some users report breakouts after use
Eucerin Immersive Hydration Moisture Boost Serum is ideal for those seeking long-term hydration and a smoother look. Dr. Garshick favors this non-comedogenic formula as it won’t clog pores and improves line visibility.
Key ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, butylene glycol
Pros:
- Affordable
- Non-comedogenic
SkinMedica HA⁵ Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator is a notable recommendation from dermatologists, despite its cost. "I appreciate the inclusion of five types of HA that smooth the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles," shares Dr. Lal.
Key ingredients: 5 forms of HA, avocado oil esters, vitamin F, passion fruit seed oil, vitis flower stem extract, lotus sprout extract
Pros:
- Silicone-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Maelove Hydrator Hyaluronic Acid B5 Serum is a lightweight gel that offers more than hydration. With panthenol to support the skin barrier and reduce irritation, it provides a burst of moisture without greasiness. Resveratrol, a strong antioxidant, helps shield against environmental aggressors.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, panthenol (vitamin B5), resveratrol
Pros:
- Contains antioxidants
- Fragrance-free
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum is a budget-friendly favorite, often sold-out because of its effectiveness. It features five types of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and ceramides for skin barrier support. The fragrance-free formula is ideal for all skin, including sensitive types, easily applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. With pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol), it also offers protection from UV rays and dry climates, making it essential for long-term moisture.
Key ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, panthenol
Pros:
- Affordable
- Minimal ingredients
Aloisia Beauty Replenish Hyaluron Peptide Ampoulet is highly praised by Dr. Lal for its seven types of hyaluronic acid, each with unique molecular weights penetrating diverse skin layers for deep hydration. "It also contains peptides that enhance smoothness and reduce fine lines and wrinkles," explains Dr. Lal.
Key ingredients: Camellia sinensis leaf water, glycerin, grape fruit extract, 11 peptides (including copper peptides), 7 forms of hyaluronic acid, amino acids
Pros:
- Multiple forms of HA
- Peptides
- Short ingredient list
PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum combines hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid for hydration on every level—from the surface to deep within, and by encouraging the skin’s own HA production. Packed with ceramides and niacinamide, it delivers smooth, plump, refreshed skin.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, HA-Pro complex, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid
Pros:
- Dermatologist approved
- Enhances the skin barrier
Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Booster Serum and Gel Moisturizer is recognized by both the British Skin Foundation and the National Eczema Association for utilizing natural-origin hyaluronic acid and Vichy Volcanic Water, together providing enduring hydration and skin barrier repair. We love its simple, lightweight gel formula that seals in moisture without stickiness.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Vichy volcanic water
Pros:
- Approved by the British Skin Foundation
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Short ingredient list
Best for sensitive skin: CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum has a creamier consistency that absorbs smoothly. Alongside HA, pro-vitamin B5 provides additional moisture, keeping skin soft and silky throughout the day. Fragrance-free, it’s ideal for sensitive skin, avoiding irritation.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin B5
Pros:
- Fragrance-free
- Contains ceramides
The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum shows that effective skincare can be affordable. With 2% multi-molecular hyaluronic acid and peptides, this gel-like serum quickly absorbs, plumping, firming, and smoothing the skin. The blend of high and low molecular weight HA hydrates multiple skin layers, while peptides make your skin feel rejuvenated after a few uses.
Key ingredients: 2% Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid, Matrixyl 3000 Peptide
Pros:
- Low price point
- Two different kinds of HA
Paula’s Choice Boost Hyaluronic Acid Booster needs just a small amount for a big impact, featuring hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol to counteract dehydration. It’s designed to blend with your favorite serum or moisturizer for added hydration, perfect for daily use or whenever extra nourishment is required. It’s quick to absorb, effectively improving dryness.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol
Pros:
- Additional ceramides and plant extracts
- Absorbs quickly
What makes a good hyaluronic acid serum?
When selecting a hyaluronic acid serum, choose one that includes both high and low-molecular-weight molecules. This ensures the acid can reach different depths in the skin, providing hydration at various levels. Smaller molecules penetrate deeper, while larger ones remain at the surface. Depending on your skincare goals, a serum with a mix of molecular weights can offer broader benefits. Additionally, it’s important to choose a serum that layers well, as applying it before a moisturizer can maximize its efficacy.
Not all hyaluronic acid serums are created equal—some are lightweight, others are thicker and creamier. Dr. Garshick explains, “Those with oily skin may prefer a gel-like serum that’s lightweight, while those with dry skin might choose a richer, creamier formula.”
Is there a downside to hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid can fit into almost any skincare routine as it is safe for all skin types, even those with inflammatory conditions. However, Dr. Lal advises against using it on any open wounds or damaged skin, as the ingredient draws in moisture.
Hyaluronic acid is especially advantageous for dry skin, providing a moisture boost, and its plumping effect makes it suitable for addressing fine lines and wrinkles. Although generally well-tolerated, pairing it with products that lock in moisture enhances benefits since it attracts moisture.
“One of the great features of hyaluronic acid is its adaptability—it can be combined with other active ingredients,” highlights Dr. Garshick. “Being gentle on the skin, it minimizes irritation from other active ingredients while increasing moisture.” So, use a HA product first, then layer other products to maintain that moisture.
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