These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (2024)

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (1)

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When it comes to skincare, the word “acid” might conjure thoughts of exfoliation or even irritation—but hydration? Not so much. However, hyaluronic acid moisturizers and serums can satisfy even the thirstiest complexions.

Applied topically, hyaluronic acid (HA) acts like a tiny sponge, holding up to a thousand times its weight in water and pulling it to the skin’s surface to quench and plump, says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. The result? Plumper, more hydrated, and younger-looking, skin.

Meet the experts: Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; and Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist.

You can find the humectant in tons of products, often listed as sodium hyaluronate on the ingredients label, but most people opt for either a serum or moisturizer. As far as when to include it in the right skincare routine order—it varies based on serum versus moisturizer. Serums will give you a dose of your favorite active ingredients, while moisturizers help seal all that goodness in. The best part? Hyaluronic acid can benefit all skin types—from sensitive and dry to oily and acne-prone—because it helps reduce irritating side effects from stronger ingredients that can feel harsh or dry out the skin, like the best retinols.

Our top picks

Ready to see what all the hype is about? Check out these dermatologist-approved serums and moisturizers that feature the hard-working ingredient.

1

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum Overall

Kate Somerville KX Concentrates Squalane + Hyaluronic Acid Serum

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (8)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (9)Leaves skin supple
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (10)Creates a dewy appearance
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (11)Hydrating
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (12)Pricey

“This serum is formulated with hyaluronic acid, squalane, linoleic acid, and panthenol (pro Vitamin B5) so it is very moisturizing and leaves skin supple and dewy,” explains Dr. Luke. “I also recommend this for people with dry or sensitive skin as well.”

Size1 oz.
Skin typeDry, sensitive

2

Best Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel-Cream

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (13)

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (14)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (15)Hydrates skin
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (16)Fragrance-free
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (17)Fast-absorbing
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (18)Some Amazon were shoppers disappointed with packaging

“This is a gel-cream, but is quickly absorbed into the skin and provides lasting moisture,” says Dr. Luke. “It is formulated with HA and other ingredients such as glycerin but is also fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic.”

Size1.7 oz
Skin typeDry, sensitive

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3

Editor’s Pick

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (19)

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (20)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (21)Fast absorbing
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (22)Fragrance-free
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (23)Highly rated
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (24)Some have difficulty securing the top

With over 41,000 ratings and nearly five stars, this hyaluronic acid serum is loved by so many on Amazon. Slather this plumping serum all over your face and neck to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, hydrate dry patches, and boost overall glow. The best-selling formula is free of fragrances, mineral oil, and synthetic dyes so even sensitive skin types can benefit. Plus, it absorbs quickly to prevent that tacky feeling.

Size1.0 oz
Skin typeAll

4

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Mature Skin

Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (25)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (26)Great for mature skin
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (27)Suitable for sensitive skin
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (28)Contains antioxidants
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (29)Pricey

This serum has two forms of HA, according to Dr. Luke. She says it also has “antioxidants and other hydrating ingredients. It is also formulated with peptides, which help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and are part of the reason why I recommend this serum for mature skin.”

Size1 oz.
Skin typeMature, oily, sensitive

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5

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum With Vitamin C

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (31)Contains 15% vitamin C
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (32)Helps brighten skin
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (33)Highly rated
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (34)May not be suitable for dry skin types
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (35)Has a banana scent

Sephora customers rave about this serum. With over 80,000 hearts and four stars, it’s a staple in many a beauty cabinet. It combines skin-brightening vitamin C, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and exfoliating poly-hydroxy acids for a trifecta that simply can’t be beat. Use daily in the morning for a complexion that looks more even, smooth, and radiant over time. The texture is a bit thicker than your traditional serum, but it soaks right in to instantly plump. “I am so impressed by its effectiveness in reducing black under-eye circles and evening-out skin tone. I definitely want to try more products from this brand,” writes one Sephora reviewer.

Size1 oz.
Skin typeNormal, oily

6

Best Scented Hyaluronic Acid Serum

ASUTRA Anti-Aging Hyaluronic Acid Serum

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (36)

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (37)

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Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (38)Includes soothing aloe
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (39)Features anti-aging ingredients
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (40)Only need to apply a small amount
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (41)Some users dislike scent

This affordable serum packs hyaluronic acid alongside soothing aloe, nourishing jojoba oil, and protective vitamins C and E for a do-it-all anti-ager. Testers love how smoothly it applies, and that a little bit goes a long way.

Size1 oz.
Skin typeNormal

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7

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum That Tackles Redness

Olay Regenerist MAX Hydration Serum

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (42)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (43)Tackles redness
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (44)Non-greasy
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (45)Fragrance-free
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (46)Should be used in addition to moisturizer

If dewy skin is what you’re after, this serum doesn’t disappoint. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3), it tackles dry spots, redness, and fine lines with no problems. Fragrance-free and fast-absorbing, your skin will feel soft and supple—never greasy.

Size1.3 oz.
Skin typeAll

8

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum With Collagen

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydrating Serum

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (49)Includes collagen
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (50)Contains colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (51)Helps smooth skin
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (52)Some dislike the tea-tree scent

This gel-like serum packs hyaluronic acid, skin-smoothing peptides, and collagen to encourage extra lift and bounce. Bonus: It also contains colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera—two ultra-soothing, redness-reducing ingredients that nourish irritated skin.

Size1.7 oz.
Skin typeAll

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9

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for oily skin

Vichy Minéral 89 Daily Skin Booster Serum and Moisturizer

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (53)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (54)Lightweight
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (55)Highly rated
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (56)Helps skin barrier
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (57)Some reviewers said it does not mix well with other products

Another recommendation of Dr. Luke’s, this affordable find is great for hydrating oily complexions. “This serum is pretty lightweight, is formulated with HA as well as Vichy volcanic water (which has 15 essential nutrients), so it hydrates and helps improve the skin’s barrier.” Since it’s allergy-tested, it’s a safe bet for all skin types.

Size1.7 oz.
Skin typeOily, dry

10

Best Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer Cream

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (59)Lightweight
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (60)Contains protective ingredients
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (61)Fragrance-free
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (62)Some users say the product doesn’t penetrate skin’s surface

Your skin will feel like it just gulped down a big glass of water after applying this lightweight gel cream. In addition to hyaluronic acid, it also contains ceramides (another hydrating and protective ingredient) to ensure more supple and smooth-looking skin. Because it’s free of oil, alcohol, and fragrances, it’s especially great if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Size1.6 oz
Skin typeNormal, oily, dry

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11

Best Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (63)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (64)Great value
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (65)Highly rated
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (66)Great for daily use
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (67)Some reviewers find the formula too thick

With over 100,000 ratings on Amazon and nearly five stars, this option is beloved by many. This is the best no-fuss option you can find when it comes to a do-it-all moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides work together to inject all skin types with long-lasting hydration. This gentle formula is also fragrance- and oil-free, noncomedogenic, and developed with dermatologists to minimize irritation—a win for those who struggle with eczema or acne.

Size19 oz.
Skin typeSensitive, dry

12

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Clearer Skin

SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (68)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (69)Helps firm skin
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (70)Contains salicylic acid to help clear pores
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (71)Only need to use a small amount
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (72)Pricey

In addition to 1.3% hyaluronic acid, this restoring serum packs in proxylane (an ingredient that works to firm the skin), herbal extracts to make sure the humectants can do their thing, and salicylic acid to keep pores clear. Testers looking to smooth fine lines swear by the formula—and a little goes a long way.

Size1 oz.
Skin typeAcne-prone, oily, normal

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13

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum Splurge

SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (73)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (74)Contains five types of HA
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (75)Smooths skin
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (76)Hydrating
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (77)Pricey—but you’re getting twice the amount of product as most other serum bottle sizes

Dr. Luke recommends this luxe pick if you can splurge. “This serum is pricey, however, it is formulated with five types of HA, and has other high-quality ingredients and VITISENSCE® Technology (a blend of antioxidants and peptides) so it helps smooth the skin and feels very hydrating,” Dr. Luke says. And, reviewers love it too:
“This is a wonderful hydrator that goes on smoothly and completely with one pump per application,” one reviewer raves. “Smells great and my skin feels and looks great. People are surprised that I am 75!!!”

Size2 oz.
Skin typeAll

14

Editor-Favorite Hyaluronic Acid Serum

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (78)

Pros
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (79)Layers well with other skincare
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (80)Super hydrating
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (81)Pleasant scent
Cons
  • These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (82)Serum is a bit thick

Senior Editor, Emily Goldman, swears by this serum. Great for her sensitive complexion, it instantly hydrates and plumps skin after application. She’s used the formula for two years, at least twice a week, and says she notices a difference.

Size1 oz.
Skin typeSensitive, normal, oily, dry

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How to choose the best hyaluronic acid moisturizer or serum

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (83)

Consider your skin type. A powerful hydrator at its core, HA will always be a staple for those with dry skin. But, those with other skin types can still benefit from it. Look for moisturizers and serums that have a bevy of other ingredients like vitamin C (if you’re looking for brighter skin), retinol (ideal for minimizing fine lines and wrinkles), and salicylic acid (great for acne-prone skin).

Look at the type of hyaluronic acid. According to Dr. Luke, not all HA’s are the same. In fact, there are multiple different types, including sodium hyaluronate for immediate hydration, uncross-linked HA for smoothness, Nano HA which soothes, and cross-linked HA which offers long-lasting hydration.

Check the price tag. Hyaluronic acid moisturizers and serums likely won’t be the only step in your skincare routine, so budget accordingly. There is plenty of affordable (and even drugstore!) picks on this list that more than pull their weight.

Is hyaluronic acid a good moisturizer?

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (84)

In short, yes. As a humectant that can hold 1000 times its weight in water, it’s super hydrating. “It is commonly used as an ingredient in moisturizers because of its hydration benefits, and can even help plump the skin to improve the appearance of fine lines,” explains Dr. Zeichner.

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Is hyaluronic acid safe to use every day?

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (85)

Hyaluronic acid is a “potent molecule that has the ability to bind 1000-times its weight in water and functions as a humectant to hold water molecules onto the surface of the skin to keep it hydrated,” explains Dr. Luke. “HA is naturally found in the skin, but we tend to lose it as we age resulting in volume loss, and loss of hydration/plumpness,” she says. “Thankfully, this ingredient is often well tolerated in many skin types and typically is not harsh or irritating compared to other common active skincare ingredients.”

How we chose

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (86)

We used input from Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; and Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, as well as poured through countless user reviews to find the best hyaluronic acid serums available.

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Why trust us

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (87)

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (88)

Alisa Hrustic

Deputy Editor, Prevention

Alisa Hrustic is the deputy editor at Prevention, where she leads the brand’s digital editorial strategy. She’s spent the last five years interviewing top medical experts, interpreting peer-reviewed studies, and reporting on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness trends for national brands like Women’s Health and Men’s Health. She spends most of her days diving into the latest wellness trends, writing and editing stories about health conditions, testing skincare products, and trying to understand the next greatest internet obsession.

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (89)

Emily Goldman

Deputy Editor

Emily Goldman is the deputy editor at Prevention. She’s spent her career editing and writing about health, wellness, beauty, fashion, and food for Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, Bridal Guide, Good Housekeeping, and more. She’s loved all things health and wellness since starting her bi-weekly podcast Pancreas Pals—a series all about the highs and lows of living life with type 1 diabetes. When not podcasting, she spends most of her time curled up with a good book or watching a period piece on BBC.

These Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers and Serums Lead to Hydrated, Supple Skin (2024)

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