15 best hyaluronic acid serums for your glowiest skin yet
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You don't need to be a skincare aficionado to know that hyaluronic acid serums have become practically synonymous with the word “hydration” – and for a good reason.
“A single gram of hyaluronic acid can also hold up to six litres of water,” says aesthetic doctor Dr Barbara Sturm. Meanwhile, consultant dermatologist, Dr. Justine Kluk, believes it is the key molecule involved in skin moisture, with a “unique capacity to target, bind and retain water molecules.”
We're also willing to bet that this powerhouse skincare ingredient is present in just about every skincare product you own – from your go-to cleansers and toners to moisturisers. That said, if you're after targeted hydration, it's no secret that hyaluronic acid is most effective in form of face serums. And unlike other formulas, hyaluronic acid serums are known for their soothing and non-irritating nature, which also means that they bode well with all skin types (yep: including oily and acne-prone skin).
Plus, they're also expertly formulated to help with a range of skincare concerns, too — from dehydrated skin to fine lines and wrinkles. Alongside some serious powerhouse active ingredients, of course. To help you skip the hours reading through ingredient lists, scrolling on TikTok and scouring the e-shelves, we've curated the ultimate edit of the best hyaluronic acid serums on the market – with the help of dermatologists and our beauty editors' expertise. Here's everything there is to know.
SKIP TO: What is hyaluronic acid? | What are the benefits of using hyaluronic acid? | What is the best way to use it? | Can you pair hyaluronic acid with other skincare ingredients? | How to use hyaluronic acid | Our full reviews.
Best hyaluronic acid serums at a glance:
- Best overall: Medik8 Hydr8 B5
- Best affordable: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Best for dry skin: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for oily skin: Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum
- The Derm-Approved Formula: SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier Serum
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How we tested hyaluronic acid serums:
The GLAMOUR editors have collectively trialled hundreds of hyaluronic acid serums, having reviewed each formula for at least a month on different skin types and skin tones, while keeping in mind its efficacy and its hydration properties, as well as their value for money and whether the formula resulted in any reactions or flare-ups. Find out how we test here.
Looking to take your skincare routine to the next level? Make sure to check out our guides for the best moisturisers and lotions, best face toners, best eye creams, best face cleansers and the best face SPFs.
Scroll down to check out our edit of all the best hyaluronic acid serums…
Best hyaluronic acid serum overall
- Best for: intense hydration.
- Suitable skin type: all, particularly dry skin.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, soy extract and antioxidant-rich Saskatoon berry.
Why we love it: Who doesn't love a potent triple-action hydrating hyaluronic acid from one of the best derm-approved brands around? This bestseller formula is supercharged with vitamin B5, which gives your skin the power to withstand dehydrating changes in temperature and humidity all year round, leaving your complexion hydrated, soothed and bouncy.
Best hyaluronic acid serum for dry skin
- Best for: hydration and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate) and vitamin B5.
Why we love it: Not only is this face serum reasonably priced, but it’s also great when it comes to plumping and soothing the skin, thanks to the healthy combo of two types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. Plus, the allergy-tested, paraben-free and oil-free formula is an optimal choice for those prone to sensitivity. Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, points to the two different types of hyaluronic acid present in this serum — one high molecular weight, one low — which ensure deep hydration and moisture within the skin. There’s also the vitamin B5, which acts as both a humectant and an emollient, drawing water to the skin, then sealing that moisture as well as madecassoside, more commonly known as centella asiatica, to soothe redness and irritation.
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Best affordable hyaluronic acid serum
- Best for: plumping and smoothing.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and glycerin.
Why we love it: Remade with a new and updated formula, this drugstore hyaluronic acid serum not only carries an affordable price tag, but it also easily matches other products on the market when it comes to quality. We're most impressed with its formulation, which combines 5 different types of low, medium and high-molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid. It also features a HA cross-polymer as well as vitamin B5, delivering “multi-depth” hydration and visibly more plumped skin. One of the best budget options around.
Best hyaluronic acid serum for oily skin
- Best for: a lightweight gel texture.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Why we love it: According to Dr. Lolis, Vichy’s Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum works to improve mature skin on two fronts: Hyaluronic acid plumps and smooths, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while Vichy’s signature French volcanic water helps make skin more resilient to environmental stressors that contribute to visible signs of ageing. Over time, complexion is visibly smoother and healthier-looking. The gel formula is lightweight without feeling sticky or looking too shiny—it simply absorbs into the skin within moments, providing both an immediate burst of hydration as well as long-lasting results.
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Best hyaluronic acid serum with a dermatologist-approved formula
- Best for: intense hydration and plumping.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, liquorice root and purple rice extracts.
Why we love it: Need a little something-something that can restore plumpness, elasticity and firmness to your skin while also delivering long-lasting hydration? Well, here you go. This dermatologist-approved hyaluronic acid works well on all skin types and boasts a number of supercharged benefits. It'll give your skin a healthy boost of vitamin C to brighten up your complexion as well as help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But if we were to point out the only downside, it would of course be the premium price, making it one of the more expensive entries in this roundup.
- 1/13
Best hyaluronic acid serum for sensitive skin
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: long-lasting hydration.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and ceramides.
Why we love it: A favorite option among many experts, like Teresa Song, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, this budget-friendly pick checks all the boxes for a sensitive-skin-friendly serum. Fragrance-free? Check. Packed with skin-soothing ingredients? Check, thanks to a healthy dose of vitamin B5 and three different ceramides, which are naturally occurring lipids (or fat) in the skin. Dermatologist-formulated? Check. The smooth gel-cream texture feels light on the skin and absorbs within seconds for instantaneous nourishment and moisture. The ultra-gentle formula even includes some niacinamide to help calm and soothe irritated skin.
- 2/13
Best hyaluronic acid serum for combination skin
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum
- Best for: overnight hydration.
- Suitable skin type: all, particularly mature skin.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, caffeine, chamomile extract.
Why we love it: Tired of waking up to dry skin? Same. This hydration booster serum is basically ‘beauty sleep’ in a bottle, delivering long-lasting moisture for up to 72 hours a time. Featuring a myriad of quality skincare ingredients, this serum is a cult-favourite for a reason. Our Beauty Commerce Writer Denise Primbet has been using this formula for just over 3 months: “I'm not usually one who would advocate for expensive skincare, but having used the popular Estee Lauder Night Repair serum for a while now, the benefits are undeniable: my complexion is visibly bouncier, hydrated and brighter.”
- 3/13
Best hyaluronic acid serum for dehydrated skin
Kiehl's Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Plumping High-Potency Serum
- Best for: a plumper, more refined complexion.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Why we love it: Made with just seven ingredients, this highly potent hyaluronic acid serum is suitable for all skin types and is a great choice for anyone looking to achieve visibly more plump skin. “As someone who's always loved Kiehl's for its simple yet effective formulations, I had to give the 1.5% hyaluronic acid serum ago, and before I knew it, it made its way into my ‘favourites' cabinet, thanks to its lightweight feel and high-potency formula," shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Commerce Writer.
4/13Best affordable hyaluronic acid serum
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: intense hydration at a modest price.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Why we love it: This lightweight hyaluronic acid serum is not only incredibly affordable, but it's also great at providing deep hydration and nourishment. Plus, it's suitable for all skin types and guaranteed to both smoothen out fine lines and provide a pleasant cooling sensation that helps soften and replenish your skin with each use.
- 5/13
Best hyaluronic acid serum for acne-prone skin
- Best for: non-sticky hydration.
- Suitable skin type: all, particularly dry skin.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5.
Why we love it: Refreshing feel, smooth application, nearly instant results… What's not to love? This lightweight serum features a 2% hyaluronic acid complex in combination with Pro-Vitamin B5, offering concentrated hydration without causing breakouts or inflammation. Together the two ingredients provide essential rejuvenation for the skin while promoting long-term hydration that’s ideal for acne-prone skin types, Dr. Lolis says. In fact, some reviewers note a decrease in acne, likely due to the serum’s ability to strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall skin texture.
- 6/13
Best hyaluronic acid serum for intense hydration
Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum
- Best for: glowy, dewy skin.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides.
Why we love it: If you’re hoping to achieve that glowy summer look, then Beauty Pie’s hyaluronic acid serum is definitely worth checking out. We’re big fans of the formula, which features “gravity-fighting” peptides and smoothing ceramides. And yes, you read it right, it features a triple-weight hyaluronic acid blend to hydrate your face on a whole new level.
7/13Best hyaluronic acid serum for fast absorption
L'Oréal Paris 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Revitalift Filler Serum
- Best for: smoothing and re-plumping.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Why we love it: Looking for a serum that will restore radiance and moisture to your skin? Look no further, because the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift serum is a product that's hard to beat. Featuring a high concentration of 1.5% hyaluronic acid, this formula has won over our hearts thanks to its soothing and nourishing properties that leave your skin feeling brand new.
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8/13Best hyaluronic acid serum for long-lasting hydration
Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum
- Best for: hydrating and soothing.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, provitamin B5 and pineapple ceramides.
Why we love it: Looking for an antioxidant-rich serum that can help shield your skin from environmental aggressors while providing up to 24 hours of hydration? Say no more. Suitable for all skin types, this nourishing beauty product also contains provitamin B5, which helps soothe inflammation and promotes natural collagen production.
9/13Best self-tanning hyaluronic acid serum
Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum
- Best for: hydrating and gradual self-tanning.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, cocoa seed extract and vitamin E.
Why we love it: At GLAMOUR, we looove any skincare product that can simplify our routine by doing two things at once. That's why this self-tanning serum ranks so highly in our list – it's deeply hydrating, thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and more. Plus, it also gives you a radiant glow that's bound to fetch a few compliments.
10/13Best lightweight hyaluronic acid serum
Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
- Best for: hydrating and creating a fresh, dewy look.
- Suitable skin type: all.
- Key ingredients: kakadu plum, illawarra and burdekin plums.
Why we love it: Is your skin feeling thirsty? Not to worry – this lightweight serum comes with 5 different weights of hyaluronic acid to give your complexion the moisturising boost it deserves. Oh, and it also comes with a range of skin-loving ingredients such as vitamin C and silk proteins that help keep your skin in top condition too.
What is hyaluronic acid and what are its benefits?
Meet the experts:
- Dr Barbara Sturm, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Barbara Sturm.
- Dr. Justine Kluk, consultant dermatologist.
- Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.
- Teresa Song, MD, a board-certified dermatologist.
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that helps prevent water loss, straighten your skin's natural moisture barrier, resulting in hydrated skin.
It's worth noting that although hyaluronic acid is a natural component of skin, the ingredient you find in hyaluronic acid serums and creams is a synthetic version. And, before you worry about putting this acid on your skin, remember not all acids are astringent. Milk is slightly acidic, as is our natural skin mantle. Hyaluronic acid falls at between 5.0 (the same acidity as a cup of milky coffee) and 8.0 (which is almost neutral) on the pH scale, while our skin usually sits between 4.5 and 6.2, making it a very gentle match.
Even though it's called an 'acid', hyaluronic acid is the complete opposite of retinol serums as well as glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids, and won't provide an exfoliating or brightening effect or rid you of dead skin cells, dark spots and blemishes. The name simply derives from the enzyme that synthesises HA, called 'hyaluronic acid synthase'. However, bear in mind that most hyaluronic acid serums are not vegan.
According to Dr. LoGerfo, the beauty of hyaluronic acid really lies in its astounding humectant properties, which enable the ingredient to attract and hold on to up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Not only does this keep the skin supple and hydrated, but it also helps uphold elasticity, soothe irritated skin, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As a result, Dr. Lolis says, hyaluronic acid can be a great addition to any skincare routine, regardless of your particular concerns.
Can I use pair hyaluronic acid serums with other face serums?
Whether you’re concerned with skin texture, uneven tone, dark spots, breakouts, or dryness, hyaluronic acid is a great addition to an otherwise intense treatment route filled with active ingredients. “Hyaluronic acid is extremely gentle and versatile, so it is okay to use with other products,” Dr. LoGerfo explains. “Sometimes it’s helpful to use hyaluronic acid with other ingredients that can be slightly irritating—like vitamin C, alpha-hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, retinol—because it can help tone down the irritant nature of those products.”
"For example, say your skin concern is oiliness and breakouts – you will want to combine niacinamide with salicylic acid. Or look for serums that compensate each other: vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, or for nighttime, retinol and hyaluronic acid,” she adds. Kate recommends using a hyaluronic acid serum both morning and night. If you're a die-hard fan of using the vitamin C serums by day, you'll be pleased to know that hyaluronic acid and vitamin C complement each other when it comes to hydrating, repairing and protecting skin.
What is the best way to apply hyaluronic acid?
Try applying a hyaluronic serum straight out of the shower or after washing your face. Then, make sure to follow up with a moisturiser packed with emollients, such as glycerin and ceramides, to keep skin hydration 'locked in'.
A useful trick to remember is that hyaluronic acid is best applied to slightly damp skin because the molecule needs moisture to work in the first place. If you apply hyaluronic acid to dry skin in a dry climate such as your heated flat in winter, you're in danger of making your skin even more parched.
Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin clinics, explains: “Hyaluronic acid will draw moisture from wherever it can find it to hydrate the surface of your face, including the deeper layers of your skin if there is no humidity in the air.”
