What do hyaluronic acid serums do?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance made by our skin cells that supports our skin's barrier function, explains Greenfield. It’s a humectant that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, essentially drawing in and binding moisture to the skin, softening and hydrating it without being overly heavy. “When applying hyaluronic acid to our skin topically [through a serum], we’re giving our skin what is needed to maintain its barrier function and keep us healthy,” she says.

When should you use a hyaluronic acid serum?

Greenfield says that because hyaluronic acid is so light and versatile, you can apply a serum with it pretty much whenever you please. “I love applying hyaluronic acid post-procedure, as a part of my morning antioxidant serum, or after applying retinoids at night,” she says.

Can you apply too much hyaluronic acid serum?

In general, hyaluronic acid isn’t thought to have any negative side effects, though some studies have shown that overusing products with low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid may induce inflammation. Greenfield also says that those with oily or acne-prone skin shouldn’t overdo it with serums in general: “You should still moisturize, but don’t go overboard!” Otherwise, you may end up with a shiny, greasy complexion or clogged pores.

Can you use hyaluronic acid and vitamin C together?

Serums are great for delivering antioxidants to the skin. Greenfield points out that vitamin C serums (amongst other antioxidant serums) are typically formulated with an emollient, such as hyaluronic acid, so, yes, they can (and should!) be used together.

Which ingredients should you avoid using with a hyaluronic acid serum?

Currently, there are no known negative reactions to any specific ingredients being used together with hyaluronic acid. However, Greenfield advises against using any hyaluronic acid serums that contain alcohol (since they can be drying) or any other ingredients that typically irritate your skin or cause you to have an allergic reaction.

The 17 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums of 2023

Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably caught wind of the skincare industry's current favorite ingredient, hyaluronic acid (HA). This powerful humectant can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which is why it's often a key ingredient in serums for parched complexions.

Byrdie Researched & Approved

A derm favorite, Vichy Laboratoires MINÉRAL 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer promises all-day hydration plus protection against environmental stressors, which is why it tops our list. If you’re searching for a wallet-friendly option, try The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, which contains vitamin B5 to help retain moisture.

"Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that naturally exists in the skin," explains Claire Wolinsky, MD. "When a hyaluronic acid-based lotion or serum is applied to the skin, it can attract and hold water, leading to a plumping and hydrating effect."

Dr. Wolinsky tells Byrdie that while HA doesn't directly reduce signs of aging, the plumping effect can diminish the appearance of fine lines. And no matter your skin type, she adds, regular use of a hyaluronic acid serum "can lead to the appearance of healthier, more dewy skin."

When browsing serums, you'll see there are more pure forms of HA, as well as options containing other key ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin B5, and niacinamide. To find out which ones work the best, we put some of today's top-rated hyaluronic acid serums to the test. Our testers used these products for weeks at a time, rating how well each improved their skin's hydration, plumpness, and overall glow. We combined these results with our own research and expert recommendations from Dr. Wolinsky and other dermatologists to compile a list covering every budget and skin concern.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum

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Best Overall, Runner-Up:

Ourself Ourself HA+ Replenishing Serum at Ourself.com

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Best Budget:

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid

Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:

L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier at Dermstore

Jump to Review

Best Pure:

The Plant Base Waterfall Moist Balanced Hyaluronic Acid 100 at Amazon

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Best With Niacinamide:

La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Jump to Review

Best With Vitamin C:

Kiehl's Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate

Jump to Review

Best for Under Makeup:

Glossier Super Bounce at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Dry Skin:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Byrdie?

4.9

Amazon

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Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum Review

What We Like

Fragrance- and oil-free
Long-lasting hydration
Protects against environmental stressors

What We Don't Like

May leave a sticky residue behind

"Vichy Mineral 89 is a dermatologist favorite," says Sheilagh Maguiness, MD, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School Department of Dermatology. Aside from hyaluronic acid, it's formulated with vitamin C and glycerin, plus mineral-rich volcanic water . "I’ve tried more hyaluronic acid serums than I can count on two hands, but this drugstore go-to is by far my favorite option at its price point," says Jessica Mahgerefteh, Commerce Editorial Director. "Because even without the hefty price tag, it packs a serious punch thanks to hyaluronic acid (duh) and a whopping 89% of Vichy’s Mineralizing Water, which is rich in 15 rare minerals sourced from French volcanoes. The formula glides onto the skin easily and absorbs so quickly you’ll likely forget you’re wearing anything at all. But once you look in the mirror and see plumped-up skin with a healthy glow, you’ll be easily reminded."

This all-star serum promises to deliver up to 24 hours of hydration while protecting your skin from environmental stressors. Besides ample hydration, you can expect a softer, noticeably supple, brilliantly dewy complexion.

Price at time of publish: $40

4.9

Ourself

View On Ourself.com

What We Like

Patent-pending delivery system to improve absorption
Firming Intides™ help support skin’s natural barrier
Hydrates and lifts skin
Silky skin feel

What We Don't Like

Small amount in bottle

This innovative formula is powered by encapsulated low and medium weight hyaluronic acid molecules and a proprietary patent-pending multi-phasic ingredient that improves delivery and absorption to penetrate the outer barrier of skin. "I've struggled in the past with hyaluronic acids that pill or feel sticky on my skin," notes Byrdie senior commerce editor, Jill Di Donato. "But the Ourself formula goes on silky smooth and absorbs instantly. This serum is so soothing, I've been using it on sore winter skin day and night and have noticed an immediate difference in my skin's texture. The Firming Intides™ have clinical trials behind them to help support the skin barrier, which explains why how this formula works so well to enhance my skin's texture, leaving it plumper after just one application."

Price at time of publish: $145 for 0.5 ounces/$260 for 1 ounce

4.2

THE ORDINARY Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 30ml, 1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Amazon

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Review

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Calms inflammation
Contains vitamin B5

What We Don't Like

May leave a sticky residue behind

Dr. Maguiness is also a fan of The Ordinary's "cult favorite and very inexpensive" Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. "It soaks effortlessly into the skin and doesn’t leave behind any stickiness on the surface of my skin," notes Byrdie editor, Olivia Hancock. This wallet-friendly serum contains vitamin b5 (aka pantothenic acid) to help your skin retain moisture and calm inflammation.

Price at time of publish: $9

the ordinary hyaluronic acid 2% + B5 — Byrdie / Olivia Hancock

4.2

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Walgreens

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L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum Review

What We Like

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Budget-friendly
Can use as a makeup primer

What We Don't Like

Results aren't dramatic

From the drugstore aisle, we're loving L'Oreal Revitalift. Containing 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid. "Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient to look for in products, as it aids in locking in moisture to the skin," says cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank. The highly concentrated gel-like formula plumps the skin and goes on so smooth that you can use it as a makeup primer.

Price at time of publish: $16

4.4

SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Serum

Dermstore

View On Dermstore View On Skinceuticals.com

SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Serum Review

What We Like

Improves skin elasticity
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Promotes a radiant complexion

What We Don't Like

Some reviewers note smell is unpleasant

"Skinceuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier is a quality product with a high concentration of HA, as well as some other valuable skin-correcting ingredients, such as licorice root extract, which can help with discoloration," Dr. Wolinsky tells Byrdie. Byrdie associate editorial director Holly Rhue notes, "Hyaluronic acid is one of those ingredients that not only works to improve skin over time, but the right formula can also deliver immediate results. The SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Serum does just that. Every night when I apply it after my retinoid, my skin immediately looks dewier, feels softer, and the fine lines around my eyes—which look deeper and wider when my skin is dry—are significantly reduced on contact."

Price at time of publish: $106

The Plant Base Waterfall Moist Balanced Hyaluronic Acid 100

Sokoglam

View On Amazon View On Sokoglam.com

What We Like

100% pure hyaluronic acid
Fragrance-free

What We Don’t Like

Small amount

Containing nothing other than 100% pure sodium hyaluronate (aka hyaluronic acid), this no-nonsense ampoule doesn't waste time hydrating your skin. Just a few drops twice a day is all you need for a plumper, smoother complexion.

Price at time of publish: $20

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Amazon

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What We Like

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Minimizes appearance of pores
Calms inflammation

What We Don’t Like

Contains fragrance

"As we age, the hyaluronic acid in our skin begins to degrade and is distributed differently, leading to loss of skin elasticity and the visible signs of aging," says Dr. Frank. La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum calls on all the usual suspects to smooth, plump, and hydrate the skin. We're talking hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and niacinamide, the latter of which helps reduce the appearance of pores, redness, and fine lines.

Price at time of publish: $37

4.5

Kiehls

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Kiehl's Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate Review

What We Like

Promotes a radiant complexion
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Pleasant scent

What We Don't Like

May sting upon application

Kiehl's Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate has no mercy on fine lines and dull complexions. Containing a heaping dose of vitamin C, it addresses discoloration, boosts radiance, and hydrates the skin while minimizing the appearance of fine lines.

Price at time of publish: $130

4.5

Glossier

View On Amazon View On Glossier.com

What We Like

Combines different weights of hyaluronic acid
Can use as a makeup primer

What We Don't Like

Results aren't dramatic

Super Bounce is a godsend for regular makeup-wearers. This hydrating concoction from Glossier boasts a softening blend of vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid to deliver a smoother and more supple complexion while prepping the skin for foundation.

Price at time of publish: $43

Amazon

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What We Like

Budget-friendly
Absorbs quickly
Non-comedogenic

What We Don’t Like

Contains fragrance

"Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum is a good over-the-counter option for those wanting to incorporate HA into their skin regimen," says Dr. Wolinsky. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula is gentle and effective, locking in moisture for hours on end.

Price at time of publish: $29

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Serum

Amazon

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What We Like

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Long-lasting hydration
Improves texture

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Contains dye

Parched skin got you down? Water Drench has your name on it. This fan-favorite from Peter Thomas Roth contains a whopping 75% hyaluronic acid, plus essential ceramides and the brand's proprietary HydraFence to keep your skin moisturized for up to 120 hours.

Price at time of publish: $68

Marla Rene

View On Marlarene.com

What We Like

Shields skin from free radicals
Calms redness and irritation
Supports skin's barrier

What We Don't Like

Slow to absorb

Those with sensitive skin should reach for Marla Rene's Moisture Recovery. This hyaluronic acid serum calls on organic aloe, witch hazel, vitamin E, and jojoba to calm inflammation and reinforce the skin barrier while addressing dullness and dehydration—although we should note, this does make the formula a bit slower to absorb than others.

Price at time of publish: $55

Klur

View On Klur.co

What We Like

Supports skin's barrier
Non-greasy
Provides long-term hydration

What We Don't Like

Has slight scent that might be off-putting

If you're working with oily skin, your best bet is Klur Immersion. Containing vitamin E, C, and B5, this concentrated tincture is formulated to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier without leaving a greasy or sticky residue in its wake.

Price at time of publish: $70

4.6

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Hyaluronic Marine Hydration Booster

Sephora

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What We Like

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Promotes firmness
Multifunctional formula

What We Don't Like

Solution is very runny

Formulated with mature skin in mind, Dr. Dennis Gross's Hyaluronic Marine Booster contains moisturizing watermelon extract and centella asiatica (aka cica) to smooth the appearance of fine lines. We like that this multifunctional serum can be applied all over the face or on dry patches as needed. Do note that the water-like consistency is runny, so consider using the dropper applicator to dispense product directly on skin to avoid waste.

Price at time of publish: $68

Revolve

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What We Like

Gently exfoliates
Clears congestion
Calms inflammation

What We Don't Like

Might sting due to acid formulation

Blemish Control Booster is something you want in your arsenal during the battle against breakouts. It calls on naturally-derived AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) like glycolic and lactic acid to clear congested pores and encourage cell turnover.Do note that you might need some time to acclimate your skin to the acid formulation so it goes on without stinging.

Price at time of publish: $70

4.5

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Amazon

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What We Like

High concentration of hyaluronic acid
Targets dullness
Generous amount

What We Don’t Like

Not vegan-friendly

We're also partial to CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin. This Korean beauty mainstay contains 96% snail secretion filtrate, a natural form of hyaluronic acid to plump, hydrate, and boost radiance.

Price at time of publish: $25

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Purified Hyaluronic Acid Pressed Night Serum

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Contains purified, pressed hyaluronic acid
Non-comedogenic gel-like moisturizer formula
Melts into skin

What We Don't Like

Contains fragrance

Neutrogena's Hydro Boost series of hyaluronic serums and creams is impressive, but we're fans of this purified hyaluronic acid formulation that's supercharged with antioxidants. It goes on smoothly, like a gel-like moisturizer for those who might find other formulas too runny. We love that it's non-greasy and non-comedogenic, so it can work for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone.

Price at time of publish: $18

Final Verdict

Our number one choice is Vichy Laboratories Mineral 89 Skin Fortifying Daily Booster, a dermatologist-approved hyaluronic acid serum that delivers a more supple complexion and 24 hours of hydration on all skin types. That said, those on a budget should consider The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, a fan-favorite formula that works hard to hydrate the skin while calming inflammation.

Meet the Expert

Nava Greenfield, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Brooklyn, NY. She’s been published in many medical journals and is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, Women’s Dermatologic Society, and the American Medical Association.
Celebrity cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, CMO is the founder of PFRANKMD and the author of The Pro-Aging Playbook.
Sheilagh Maguiness, MD, is an associate professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School Department of Dermatology.
Claire Wolinsky, MD, a New York dermatologist specializing in facial rejuvenation.

What to Look for in a Hyaluronic Acid Serum

The Right Base for Your Skin Type

When searching for the best hyaluronic acid serum, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nava Greenfield recommends figuring out what base works best for your specific skin concerns. "You’ll want to look for a water-based product—like the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift gel—if you have oily skin, while an oil- or cream-based serum is best for dry skin,” she says.

Alcohol-Free Formulas

Alcohol can be added to skincare as a preservative or stabilizer, however, Greenfield advises against hyaluronic acid serums that contain alcohol. “A formula with alcohol can end up drying out your skin rather than hydrating it,” she says. We love the Ourself HA+ Replenishing Serum, which is not only alcohol-free, but contains a blend of two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to enhance the formula's stability.

Antioxidant-Rich Formulas

Since serums are a great vehicle for delivering a high concentration of active ingredients to the skin, look for a hyaluronic acid serum that also contains your daily dose of antioxidants. Greenfield notes that hyaluronic acid works well with vitamin C, but it also plays nicely with vitamin B5 and green tea, amongst other free radical-fighting ingredients. We love the antioxidant packed Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate, fortified with vitamin C.

FAQ

What do hyaluronic acid serums do?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance made by our skin cells that supports our skin's barrier function, explains Greenfield. It’s a humectant that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, essentially drawing in and binding moisture to the skin, softening and hydrating it without being overly heavy. “When applying hyaluronic acid to our skin topically [through a serum], we’re giving our skin what is needed to maintain its barrier function and keep us healthy,” she says.
When should you use a hyaluronic acid serum?

Greenfield says that because hyaluronic acid is so light and versatile, you can apply a serum with it pretty much whenever you please. “I love applying hyaluronic acid post-procedure, as a part of my morning antioxidant serum, or after applying retinoids at night,” she says.
Can you apply too much hyaluronic acid serum?

In general, hyaluronic acid isn’t thought to have any negative side effects, though some studies have shown that overusing products with low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid may induce inflammation. Greenfield also says that those with oily or acne-prone skin shouldn’t overdo it with serums in general: “You should still moisturize, but don’t go overboard!” Otherwise, you may end up with a shiny, greasy complexion or clogged pores.
Can you use hyaluronic acid and vitamin C together?

Serums are great for delivering antioxidants to the skin. Greenfield points out that vitamin C serums (amongst other antioxidant serums) are typically formulated with an emollient, such as hyaluronic acid, so, yes, they can (and should!) be used together.
Which ingredients should you avoid using with a hyaluronic acid serum?

Currently, there are no known negative reactions to any specific ingredients being used together with hyaluronic acid. However, Greenfield advises against using any hyaluronic acid serums that contain alcohol (since they can be drying) or any other ingredients that typically irritate your skin or cause you to have an allergic reaction.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Theresa Holland is a commerce beauty writer specializing in skincare. For this story, she interviewed three dermatologists for product recommendations and insight into formulations. She pored over user reviews, combed through ingredients lists, considered the price, recommended skin type, amount, and dosage of a myriad of serums before landing on her final selections. From the above, Theresa is a fan of CosRx, Dr. Dennis Gross, Vichy Laboratories, Peter Thomas Roth, and Glossier.

The 28 Best Facial Moisturizers of 2023

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