The Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums We Tested for Hydrated, Plumper-Looking Skin

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Others We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Ulta (4)

People / Ulta (4)

We’re all about nourishing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, but no skincare regimen is really complete without hyaluronic acid (HA), a lightweight skincare ingredient that balances the moisture barrier and benefits all skin types, including oily and acne-prone.As it turns out, hyaluronic acid actually occurs naturally within the body and plays a key role in lubricating more than just the skin.Experts Say“Hyaluronic acid is a carbohydrate produced within the body to lubricate our joints and other tissues,” board-certified dermatologistDr. Dendy Engelman, MD, tells PEOPLE.“It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent skincare ingredient to attract and bind water to the skin.”There’s just one little problem: There are literally so many hyaluronic acid formulas on the market. Even skincare products that don’t highlight it as a key ingredient (like manyeye serums) are often formulated with HA. To figure out which ones are actually worth trying, our PEOPLE Tested team set out to conduct real-world testing on nearly three dozen formulas, before narrowing it down to these top 11 best hyaluronic acid serums.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$6Jump to ReviewBest Budget, Runner-Up:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$23Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:SALEMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum at Amazon$34$28Jump to ReviewBest for Dry Skin:Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum at Amazon$72Jump to ReviewBest for Mature Skin:La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face SerumJump to ReviewBest Softening:Glossier Super Bounce Serum at Sephora$34Jump to ReviewBest Boosting:Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster at Amazon$39Jump to ReviewBest Under Makeup:Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum at Amazon$65Jump to Review

We’re all about nourishing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, but no skincare regimen is really complete without hyaluronic acid (HA), a lightweight skincare ingredient that balances the moisture barrier and benefits all skin types, including oily and acne-prone.

As it turns out, hyaluronic acid actually occurs naturally within the body and plays a key role in lubricating more than just the skin.

Experts Say“Hyaluronic acid is a carbohydrate produced within the body to lubricate our joints and other tissues,” board-certified dermatologistDr. Dendy Engelman, MD, tells PEOPLE.“It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent skincare ingredient to attract and bind water to the skin.”

Experts Say

“Hyaluronic acid is a carbohydrate produced within the body to lubricate our joints and other tissues,” board-certified dermatologistDr. Dendy Engelman, MD, tells PEOPLE.“It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent skincare ingredient to attract and bind water to the skin.”

There’s just one little problem: There are literally so many hyaluronic acid formulas on the market. Even skincare products that don’t highlight it as a key ingredient (like manyeye serums) are often formulated with HA. To figure out which ones are actually worth trying, our PEOPLE Tested team set out to conduct real-world testing on nearly three dozen formulas, before narrowing it down to these top 11 best hyaluronic acid serums.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$6Jump to ReviewBest Budget, Runner-Up:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$23Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:SALEMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum at Amazon$34$28Jump to ReviewBest for Dry Skin:Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum at Amazon$72Jump to ReviewBest for Mature Skin:La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face SerumJump to ReviewBest Softening:Glossier Super Bounce Serum at Sephora$34Jump to ReviewBest Boosting:Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster at Amazon$39Jump to ReviewBest Under Makeup:Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum at Amazon$65Jump to Review

Best Overall:Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$6Jump to ReviewBest Budget, Runner-Up:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Drugstore:CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$23Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:SALEMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum at Amazon$34$28Jump to ReviewBest for Dry Skin:Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum at Amazon$72Jump to ReviewBest for Mature Skin:La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face SerumJump to ReviewBest Softening:Glossier Super Bounce Serum at Sephora$34Jump to ReviewBest Boosting:Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster at Amazon$39Jump to ReviewBest Under Makeup:Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum at Amazon$65Jump to Review

Best Overall:Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$36Jump to Review

Best Overall:Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$36

Best Overall:

Best Budget:Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$6Jump to Review

Best Budget:Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$6

Best Budget:

Best Budget, Runner-Up:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid at Amazon$10Jump to Review

Best Budget, Runner-Up:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid at Amazon$10

Best Budget, Runner-Up:

Best Drugstore:CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$23Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon$23

Best Drugstore:

Best Brightening:SALEMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum at Amazon$34$28Jump to Review

Best Brightening:SALEMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum at Amazon$34$28

Best Brightening:

SALE

Best for Dry Skin:Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum at Amazon$72Jump to Review

Best for Dry Skin:Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum at Amazon$72

Best for Dry Skin:

Best for Mature Skin:La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face SerumJump to Review

Best for Mature Skin:La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Best for Mature Skin:

Best Softening:Glossier Super Bounce Serum at Sephora$34Jump to Review

Best Softening:Glossier Super Bounce Serum at Sephora$34

Best Softening:

Best Boosting:Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster at Amazon$39Jump to Review

Best Boosting:Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster at Amazon$39

Best Boosting:

Best Under Makeup:Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum at Amazon$65Jump to Review

Best Under Makeup:Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum at Amazon$65

Best Under Makeup:

Best OverallKiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid SerumPHOTO: Ulta$36 at Amazon$36 at Nordstrom$36 at Sephora

Best OverallKiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Best Overall

Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum

PHOTO: Ulta

$36 at Amazon$36 at Nordstrom$36 at Sephora

Star QualitiesEffectively targets rednessBalances moisture barrierSmooths away fine linesRed FlagsNot the most budget-friendly pick

Star QualitiesEffectively targets rednessBalances moisture barrierSmooths away fine lines

Effectively targets redness

Balances moisture barrier

Smooths away fine lines

Red FlagsNot the most budget-friendly pick

Not the most budget-friendly pick

This Kiehl’s serum is formulated with a potent dose of hyaluronic acid and only six other ingredients, making it a simple yet highly effective face serum that replenishes moisture andplumps the skin. We love it because it is also fast-absorbing and doesn’t leave behind any residue, so it’s easy to layer under heavier skincare formulas. Plus, it’s lightweight enough for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All

PHOTO: People / Chrissy TassinPHOTO: People / Chrissy Tassin

Best BudgetGood Molecules Hyaluronic Acid SerumPHOTO: Amazon$6 at Amazon$6 at Target$6 at Ulta

Best BudgetGood Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Best Budget

Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

PHOTO: Amazon

$6 at Amazon$6 at Target$6 at Ulta

Star QualitiesExcellent absorptionImproves hydrationSafe for all skin typesBudget-friendly priceRed FlagsSome customers think it has a strong scent

Star QualitiesExcellent absorptionImproves hydrationSafe for all skin typesBudget-friendly price

Excellent absorption

Improves hydration

Safe for all skin types

Budget-friendly price

Red FlagsSome customers think it has a strong scent

Some customers think it has a strong scent

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid |Size:1 ounce, 2.53 ounces |Skin Type:All

People / Shalwah Evans

Best Budget, Runner-UpThe Ordinary Hyaluronic AcidPHOTO: Sephora$10 at Amazon$10 at Nordstrom$10 at SephoraStar QualitiesCosts less than $10Ultra-lightweight textureSoftens and hydrates skinRed FlagsYou need to apply slowlyWhen testing The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, we loved its ultra-lightweight texture, which layers well and acts as a nice base for other skincare formulas — including a heavier moisturizer. Since the formula also features vitamin B5, we found that it helped our skin not only attract moisture but alsomaintain hydrationthroughout the testing period. Additionally, the serum works well at improving the skin’s texture, and after eight weeks of using it, we noticed our skin felt a lot softer and smoother compared to before we started incorporating it into our skincare routine.It’s worth noting that while this formula absorbs well into the skin, it’s better if you apply it to a damp complexion. Additionally, we recommend dabbing it on slowly instead of rubbing too quickly because it can get a little foamy and take longer to absorb if you’re too aggressive with the application (we learned this the hard way).Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All, especially dry skinPeople / Jodi EspinosaHonorable MentionThe Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon: For another budget-friendly option, we also tested and loved this formula from The Inkey List. It’s enriched with hyaluronic acid as well as Matrixyl 3000™ peptide, which targets signs of premature aging, making it more of a multitasking formula. The hyaluronic acid serum also smooths skin texture, reduces redness, and is safe enough to use on all skin types.

Best Budget, Runner-UpThe Ordinary Hyaluronic AcidPHOTO: Sephora$10 at Amazon$10 at Nordstrom$10 at Sephora

Best Budget, Runner-UpThe Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid

Best Budget, Runner-Up

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid

PHOTO: Sephora

$10 at Amazon$10 at Nordstrom$10 at Sephora

Star QualitiesCosts less than $10Ultra-lightweight textureSoftens and hydrates skinRed FlagsYou need to apply slowly

Star QualitiesCosts less than $10Ultra-lightweight textureSoftens and hydrates skin

Costs less than $10

Ultra-lightweight texture

Softens and hydrates skin

Red FlagsYou need to apply slowly

You need to apply slowly

When testing The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, we loved its ultra-lightweight texture, which layers well and acts as a nice base for other skincare formulas — including a heavier moisturizer. Since the formula also features vitamin B5, we found that it helped our skin not only attract moisture but alsomaintain hydrationthroughout the testing period. Additionally, the serum works well at improving the skin’s texture, and after eight weeks of using it, we noticed our skin felt a lot softer and smoother compared to before we started incorporating it into our skincare routine.

It’s worth noting that while this formula absorbs well into the skin, it’s better if you apply it to a damp complexion. Additionally, we recommend dabbing it on slowly instead of rubbing too quickly because it can get a little foamy and take longer to absorb if you’re too aggressive with the application (we learned this the hard way).

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All, especially dry skin

People / Jodi Espinosa

Honorable MentionThe Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon: For another budget-friendly option, we also tested and loved this formula from The Inkey List. It’s enriched with hyaluronic acid as well as Matrixyl 3000™ peptide, which targets signs of premature aging, making it more of a multitasking formula. The hyaluronic acid serum also smooths skin texture, reduces redness, and is safe enough to use on all skin types.

Honorable Mention

The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum at Amazon: For another budget-friendly option, we also tested and loved this formula from The Inkey List. It’s enriched with hyaluronic acid as well as Matrixyl 3000™ peptide, which targets signs of premature aging, making it more of a multitasking formula. The hyaluronic acid serum also smooths skin texture, reduces redness, and is safe enough to use on all skin types.

Best DrugstoreCeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid SerumPHOTO: Ulta$23$20 at Amazon$20 at Target$26 at Ulta

Best DrugstoreCeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Best Drugstore

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

$23$20 at Amazon$20 at Target$26 at Ulta

Star QualitiesBudget-friendlyHas potent levels of hyaluronic acidEffectively hydrates with regular useExcellent base layer for makeupRed FlagsTakes long to absorbDoesn’t plump the skin

Star QualitiesBudget-friendlyHas potent levels of hyaluronic acidEffectively hydrates with regular useExcellent base layer for makeup

Budget-friendly

Has potent levels of hyaluronic acid

Effectively hydrates with regular use

Excellent base layer for makeup

Red FlagsTakes long to absorbDoesn’t plump the skin

Takes long to absorb

Doesn’t plump the skin

If you’re looking for a drugstore hyaluronic acid formula, we love the Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum, whichcosts less than $30and is extremely hydrating. This creamy hyaluronic acid serum glides onto the skin effortlessly, making it easier to apply the formula all over without having to go back for seconds (this means it takes a little longer to absorb fully, though).

During testing, we found that this serum helped add plenty of hydration to our complexion and worked well as a base layer for makeup, since it prepped and primed the skin with extra hydration. Although it doesn’t give skin as much of a plumping effect, the extra hydrationpromotes a natural, youthful radiance.

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:Dry skin

People / Emma Fleming

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serumalso got high marks as a best drugstore brand hyaluronic acid serum — and our editorsloveit, too.

Best BrighteningMad Hippie Vitamin C SerumPHOTO: Amazon$34$28 at Amazon$34 at UltaView on Madhippie.comStar QualitiesFormulated with brightening ingredientsIncludes ferulic acid to target rednessImproves brightnessRed FlagsDoesn’t have a plumping effectIf you want a hyaluronic acid serum that also brightens the complexion, we recommend the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum with Konjac Root, Ferulic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid.Vitamin C serumsdeliver antioxidants to the complexion and support amore even-looking skin tone. This one did a fabulous job. In fact, after eight weeks of testing, we noticed a major difference in our skin’s radiance.Although this doesn’t have the same plumping benefits as some of the more hyaluronic acid-rich formulas on our list, we found that thevitamin C serumstill did a great job of delivering hydration to the skin, and the addition of ferulic acid and konjac root helped support hydration while also targeting any redness for a more even-looking glow.Key Ingredients:Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:Mature, sun-damaged, and acne-prone skinPeople / Paige Vandewiele

Best BrighteningMad Hippie Vitamin C SerumPHOTO: Amazon$34$28 at Amazon$34 at UltaView on Madhippie.com

Best BrighteningMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

Best Brightening

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

$34$28 at Amazon$34 at UltaView on Madhippie.com

Star QualitiesFormulated with brightening ingredientsIncludes ferulic acid to target rednessImproves brightnessRed FlagsDoesn’t have a plumping effect

Star QualitiesFormulated with brightening ingredientsIncludes ferulic acid to target rednessImproves brightness

Formulated with brightening ingredients

Includes ferulic acid to target redness

Improves brightness

Red FlagsDoesn’t have a plumping effect

Doesn’t have a plumping effect

If you want a hyaluronic acid serum that also brightens the complexion, we recommend the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum with Konjac Root, Ferulic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid.Vitamin C serumsdeliver antioxidants to the complexion and support amore even-looking skin tone. This one did a fabulous job. In fact, after eight weeks of testing, we noticed a major difference in our skin’s radiance.

Although this doesn’t have the same plumping benefits as some of the more hyaluronic acid-rich formulas on our list, we found that thevitamin C serumstill did a great job of delivering hydration to the skin, and the addition of ferulic acid and konjac root helped support hydration while also targeting any redness for a more even-looking glow.

Key Ingredients:Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:Mature, sun-damaged, and acne-prone skin

People / Paige Vandewiele

Best for Dry SkinPeter Thomas Roth Water Drench SerumPHOTO: Ulta$72 at Amazon$72 at Sephora$72 at Ulta

Best for Dry SkinPeter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum

Best for Dry Skin

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Serum

$72 at Amazon$72 at Sephora$72 at Ulta

Star QualitiesIncludes three potent hydrating ingredientsSignificantly improves skin hydration in a short amount of timeEasy to applyRed FlagsDoesn’t improve deeper wrinkles

Star QualitiesIncludes three potent hydrating ingredientsSignificantly improves skin hydration in a short amount of timeEasy to apply

Includes three potent hydrating ingredients

Significantly improves skin hydration in a short amount of time

Easy to apply

Red FlagsDoesn’t improve deeper wrinkles

Doesn’t improve deeper wrinkles

It’s no secret that hyaluronic acid can provide excellent hydration. However, if you want something with a little more nourishment, we recommend the Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Glow Serum. This deeply hydrating formula features HydraFence™, a proprietary ingredient that provides up to 120 hours of hydration, a hyaluronic acid complex for plumping, and a ceramide complex to target fine lines and wrinkles.

Key Ingredients:HydraFence™, hyaluronic acid complex, ceramide complex |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:Normal, dry

People / Cathie France

Best for Mature SkinLa Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face SerumPHOTO: AmazonView on Ulta$40 at Amazon$40 at TargetStar QualitiesBlurs fine lines around the eyesLightweight enough for oily skinImproves uneven textureRed FlagsTakes at least 30 seconds to absorb into the skinInanti-aging products, hyaluronic acid can be used for targeting fine lines and wrinkles because the added hydrationsupports more supple, plumped skin. With this in mind, we recommend the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum as the best option for fine lines.After testing this formula out on our oily, acne-prone complexion, we found that it worked best at targeting and fading the fine lines around our eyes, which made our skin look a little more plump and youthful. And, while it didn’t get rid of our acne, it did help bring down some of the bumps for a more even-looking (and feeling) texture. The formula also has a watery consistency, whichfeels lightweight and refreshingon oily or irritated complexions, making it a good choice for warm climates, too.Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:AllPHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Best for Mature SkinLa Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face SerumPHOTO: AmazonView on Ulta$40 at Amazon$40 at Target

Best for Mature SkinLa Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Best for Mature Skin

La Roche-Posay Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

View on Ulta$40 at Amazon$40 at Target

Star QualitiesBlurs fine lines around the eyesLightweight enough for oily skinImproves uneven textureRed FlagsTakes at least 30 seconds to absorb into the skin

Star QualitiesBlurs fine lines around the eyesLightweight enough for oily skinImproves uneven texture

Blurs fine lines around the eyes

Lightweight enough for oily skin

Improves uneven texture

Red FlagsTakes at least 30 seconds to absorb into the skin

Takes at least 30 seconds to absorb into the skin

Inanti-aging products, hyaluronic acid can be used for targeting fine lines and wrinkles because the added hydrationsupports more supple, plumped skin. With this in mind, we recommend the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum as the best option for fine lines.

After testing this formula out on our oily, acne-prone complexion, we found that it worked best at targeting and fading the fine lines around our eyes, which made our skin look a little more plump and youthful. And, while it didn’t get rid of our acne, it did help bring down some of the bumps for a more even-looking (and feeling) texture. The formula also has a watery consistency, whichfeels lightweight and refreshingon oily or irritated complexions, making it a good choice for warm climates, too.

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Best SofteningGlossier Super Bounce SerumPHOTO: Sephora$34 at Sephora$34 at Glossier.comStar QualitiesHigh concentration of hyaluronic acidIncludes Pro-Vitamin B5 for added nourishmentImproves skin hydration after just four weeksRed FlagsTakes 30 seconds to fully absorbToo lightweight for severely dry skinIf you want to achieve softer skin, we recommend reaching for a bottle of Glossier Super Bounce Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5 Hydrating Face Serum. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and Pro-Vitamin B5 for added nourishment, this must-try face serum is designed to deeply nourish the skin and promote a more supple-looking complexion with regular use.While testing, we found that it worked really well at softening and smoothing out our complexion for a more even texture. We also saw some of ourfine lines and wrinkles fadeafter the testing period (cue applause). Although it isn’t the best hyaluronic acid serum for ultra-dry skin — we think it’s a little too lightweight for that — we love it for combination or oily skin types and found that, after just four weeks into the testing period, our skin felt more hydrated.Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, Pro-Vitamin B5 |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:AllPHOTO: People / Cara MilhavenPHOTO: People / Cara MilhavenPHOTO: People / Cara Milhaven

Best SofteningGlossier Super Bounce SerumPHOTO: Sephora$34 at Sephora$34 at Glossier.com

Best SofteningGlossier Super Bounce Serum

Best Softening

Glossier Super Bounce Serum

$34 at Sephora$34 at Glossier.com

Star QualitiesHigh concentration of hyaluronic acidIncludes Pro-Vitamin B5 for added nourishmentImproves skin hydration after just four weeksRed FlagsTakes 30 seconds to fully absorbToo lightweight for severely dry skin

Star QualitiesHigh concentration of hyaluronic acidIncludes Pro-Vitamin B5 for added nourishmentImproves skin hydration after just four weeks

High concentration of hyaluronic acid

Includes Pro-Vitamin B5 for added nourishment

Improves skin hydration after just four weeks

Red FlagsTakes 30 seconds to fully absorbToo lightweight for severely dry skin

Takes 30 seconds to fully absorb

Too lightweight for severely dry skin

If you want to achieve softer skin, we recommend reaching for a bottle of Glossier Super Bounce Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5 Hydrating Face Serum. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and Pro-Vitamin B5 for added nourishment, this must-try face serum is designed to deeply nourish the skin and promote a more supple-looking complexion with regular use.

While testing, we found that it worked really well at softening and smoothing out our complexion for a more even texture. We also saw some of ourfine lines and wrinkles fadeafter the testing period (cue applause). Although it isn’t the best hyaluronic acid serum for ultra-dry skin — we think it’s a little too lightweight for that — we love it for combination or oily skin types and found that, after just four weeks into the testing period, our skin felt more hydrated.

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, Pro-Vitamin B5 |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All

PHOTO: People / Cara MilhavenPHOTO: People / Cara MilhavenPHOTO: People / Cara Milhaven

Best BoostingPaula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid BoosterPHOTO: Amazon$39 at Amazon$39 at Dermstore$32 at Paulaschoice.comStar QualitiesFormulated for dehydrated skin typesEasy to apply and absorbs quicklyLeaves skin feeling soft and suppleRed FlagsDoesn’t improve fine lines and wrinklesComes in a small bottleFor a hyaluronic acid with ceramides, consider Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster with Ceramides. As the name suggests, this formula features a potentblend of hyaluronic acid and ceramides, plus panthenol to add a deep conditioning effect.We love this formula because it has a gel-like texture that is lightweight yet has some structure to it, so it doesn’t drop down the face when applied and is a little easier to massage into the complexion. Additionally, it’s formulated for ultra-dry, dehydrated skin types, and the added ceramides help prevent water loss on the skin, for a better-balanced moisture barrier.Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol |Size:0.5 ounce |Skin Type:Dry skinPHOTO: People / Lauren MeyersPHOTO: People / Lauren Meyers

Best BoostingPaula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid BoosterPHOTO: Amazon$39 at Amazon$39 at Dermstore$32 at Paulaschoice.com

Best BoostingPaula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster

Best Boosting

Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster

$39 at Amazon$39 at Dermstore$32 at Paulaschoice.com

Star QualitiesFormulated for dehydrated skin typesEasy to apply and absorbs quicklyLeaves skin feeling soft and suppleRed FlagsDoesn’t improve fine lines and wrinklesComes in a small bottle

Star QualitiesFormulated for dehydrated skin typesEasy to apply and absorbs quicklyLeaves skin feeling soft and supple

Formulated for dehydrated skin types

Easy to apply and absorbs quickly

Leaves skin feeling soft and supple

Red FlagsDoesn’t improve fine lines and wrinklesComes in a small bottle

Doesn’t improve fine lines and wrinkles

Comes in a small bottle

For a hyaluronic acid with ceramides, consider Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster with Ceramides. As the name suggests, this formula features a potentblend of hyaluronic acid and ceramides, plus panthenol to add a deep conditioning effect.

We love this formula because it has a gel-like texture that is lightweight yet has some structure to it, so it doesn’t drop down the face when applied and is a little easier to massage into the complexion. Additionally, it’s formulated for ultra-dry, dehydrated skin types, and the added ceramides help prevent water loss on the skin, for a better-balanced moisture barrier.

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol |Size:0.5 ounce |Skin Type:Dry skin

PHOTO: People / Lauren MeyersPHOTO: People / Lauren Meyers

Best Under MakeupDermalogica Circular Hydration SerumPHOTO: Ulta$65 at Amazon$65 at Sephora$65 at UltaStar QualitiesLightweight consistencySkin looks hydrated and glowy under makeupDecreases acne breakoutsRed FlagsCan leave a sticky residue when applied to dry skinSome hyaluronic acid serums also work well asface primerssince they add much-needed hydration. After testing dozens of options, we found that the Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum With Hyaluronic Acid is the best face serum for under makeup: It has a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that preps the skin and adds a natural-looking glow under foundation.Additionally, this hyaluronic acid serum alsoincludes lactic acid, which helps reduce acne breakouts and reduce the appearance of blemishes for an overall smoother complexion. The formula also creates a supple effect thanks to its elasticity support, and it prevents moisture loss, too.Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, algae extract-infused moisturizing matrix, polyglutamic acid from fermented soybean |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:AllPHOTO: People / Brit HainesPHOTO: People / Brit Haines

Best Under MakeupDermalogica Circular Hydration SerumPHOTO: Ulta$65 at Amazon$65 at Sephora$65 at Ulta

Best Under MakeupDermalogica Circular Hydration Serum

Best Under Makeup

Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum

$65 at Amazon$65 at Sephora$65 at Ulta

Star QualitiesLightweight consistencySkin looks hydrated and glowy under makeupDecreases acne breakoutsRed FlagsCan leave a sticky residue when applied to dry skin

Star QualitiesLightweight consistencySkin looks hydrated and glowy under makeupDecreases acne breakouts

Lightweight consistency

Skin looks hydrated and glowy under makeup

Decreases acne breakouts

Red FlagsCan leave a sticky residue when applied to dry skin

Can leave a sticky residue when applied to dry skin

Some hyaluronic acid serums also work well asface primerssince they add much-needed hydration. After testing dozens of options, we found that the Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum With Hyaluronic Acid is the best face serum for under makeup: It has a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that preps the skin and adds a natural-looking glow under foundation.

Additionally, this hyaluronic acid serum alsoincludes lactic acid, which helps reduce acne breakouts and reduce the appearance of blemishes for an overall smoother complexion. The formula also creates a supple effect thanks to its elasticity support, and it prevents moisture loss, too.

Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, algae extract-infused moisturizing matrix, polyglutamic acid from fermented soybean |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All

PHOTO: People / Brit HainesPHOTO: People / Brit Haines

Best InvestmentSkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid IntensifierPHOTO: Dermstore$110 at Dermstore

Best InvestmentSkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier

Best Investment

SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier

PHOTO: Dermstore

$110 at Dermstore

Super lightweight on the complexion

Improves skin texture after just one week

Red FlagsIt’s expensive for such a small amount

It’s expensive for such a small amount

Albeit on the pricey side of the spectrum, this formula is well worth the cost, especially since it has such a potent blend of hyaluronic acid and hyaluronic-supporting ingredients such aslicorice root and purple rice extract, which work together to preserve natural hyaluronic acid levels.

Key Ingredients:Proxylane, licorice root extract, purple rice extract, hyaluronic acid |Size:1 ounce |Skin Type:All, especially mature skin types

PHOTO: People / Julia Sayers GokhalePHOTO: People / Julia Sayers Gokhale

Honorable MentionWe also lovedIsdinceutics Hyaluronic Concentratefor its ability to deeply nourish, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and diminish the look of large pores. At $110 it’s also an investment for a one-ounce bottle, but after seeing results in just eight weeks, we found it worth the splurge.

We also lovedIsdinceutics Hyaluronic Concentratefor its ability to deeply nourish, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and diminish the look of large pores. At $110 it’s also an investment for a one-ounce bottle, but after seeing results in just eight weeks, we found it worth the splurge.

Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum: We also tested this hyaluronic acid serum from Glow Recipe. While it didn’t make our best-of list, we still think it’s worth mentioning because it features five weights of hyaluronic acid to deeply nourish and hydrate the complexion. With regular use, it improved our skin texture and left us with softer and smoother complexions.

Ourself HA+ Replenishing Serum: We also tested the Ourself HA+ Replenishing Serum, and although we didn’t see any drastic differences to justify the splurgy price tag, we still loved it for its hydrating benefits for the multitasking formula. The serum also has a brightening effect that is ideal for those with dull, dry skin types.

People / Kat Barnet

What to Know About Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Concentration

When shopping for hyaluronic acid serum, consider the concentration since this accounts for the overall potency of the ingredient. According to Dr. Engelman, the best hyaluronic acid serums have between one and two percent concentration — anything lower might not be as effective, and anything higher can actually dry out the skin.

Almost all of the formulas on our list feature a hyaluronic acid concentration in that sweet spot range. If you want something a little more potent, theGlossier Super Bounce Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5 Hydrating Face Serumis formulated with two percent hyaluronic acid. For something a little more budget-friendly,The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5also has two percent hyaluronic acid and costs less than $10.

Ingredients

Some hyaluronic acid serums might also include other ingredients for multitasking benefits. “If you use a serum with additional ingredients, I recommend looking for niacinamide, vitamin C, and ceramides,” says Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

For a multitasking hyaluronic acid serum, we recommend theMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum.

Molecular Weight

For a more potent hyaluronic acid serum, Dr. Engelman recommends considering molecular weight. “Hyaluronic acid is a larger molecule which makes it difficult to penetrate past the epidermis,” she explains. With that in mind, a formula with two different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid can penetrate more optimally and promote longer-lasting hydration.

To find the best hyaluronic acid serums, we first researched dozens of formulas before carefully selecting 27 serums to test at home. From there, we began an eight-week testing period where we used the formulas morning and night to get a good idea of how well each hyaluronic acid serum performed, scoring each for their absorption, skin texture, consistency, and hydration before narrowing it down to our top picks for the best hyaluronic acid serums.

People / Bailey Fink

Frequently Asked Questions

What concentration of hyaluronic acid is most effective?

When it comes to the best concentration of hyaluronic acid, Dr. Engelman says a concentration between one and two percent is optimal. “Anything below that is not strong enough to penetrate and anything higher than that can actually cause an adverse effect and dry out your skin,” she explains. With that said, Dr. Graf notes that serums with two percent hyaluronic acid are the most effective since they are slightly more potent.If you’re looking for a potent formula, consider theGlossier Super Bounce Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5 Hydrating Face Serum, which also features Pro-Vitamin B5 and is designed to deeply nourish the complexion and promote more supple-looking skin. After testing this serum for several weeks, we found it worked best at softening the complexion while also improving hydration levels.

Is it okay to use hyaluronic acid every day?

Experts Say“Those with sensitive, dry skin can benefit from hyaluronic acid because it is gentle, non-irritating, and can even work to reduce inflammation for those with conditions like eczema and psoriasis,” explains Dr. Engelman. “For those who are oily and acne-prone, you should still implement a moisturizer into your skincare routine to regulate sebum production and, since hyaluronic acid is water-soluble, it’s a superb choice for maintaining moisture without adding oil to the skin.”

“Those with sensitive, dry skin can benefit from hyaluronic acid because it is gentle, non-irritating, and can even work to reduce inflammation for those with conditions like eczema and psoriasis,” explains Dr. Engelman. “For those who are oily and acne-prone, you should still implement a moisturizer into your skincare routine to regulate sebum production and, since hyaluronic acid is water-soluble, it’s a superb choice for maintaining moisture without adding oil to the skin.”

Can I use vitamin C and hyaluronic acid together?

You can absolutely use vitamin C and hyaluronic acid products together, whether they share a formula or are in separate skin care serums that you layer. “Hyaluronic acid and vitamin C complement each other when used in tandem,” Dr. Engelman explains. “Together, this duo will work synergistically to increase water retention, protect from free radical damage, and brighten dull, dehydrated skin which can lead to reduced signs of aging."

For a hyaluronic acid serum with vitamin C, we recommendMad Hippie Vitamin C Serum, which is our top pick for the best brightening serum and is formulated to protect the skin against environmental aggressors while also supporting moisture retention.

Is it better to use hyaluronic acid serum in the morning or at night?

Hyaluronic acid can be used in both your morning and evening skincare routines, just be sure to layer it on as the right step in your routine. Dr. Graf recommends using hyaluronic acid after cleansing and toning your skin and before moisturizing. This is because hyaluronic acid serums are usually heavier than toner and a lot lighter than a moisturizer, making the in-between an optimum time to add the skincare ingredient to your regimen.

Jessie Quinnis a contributing shopping writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best hyaluronic acid serums, Jessie first reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s experiences with each formula tested, carefully considering the overall hydration factor, additional ingredients, and results. She also considered which face serums worked best for certain benefits, such as improving elasticity, plumping the complexion, and evening out the skin tone, to determine which formulas were right for each category.

Additionally, Jessie connected with top skincare experts to find out what makes a hyaluronic acid serum the best and get some insights on some of our most pressing questions about the hydrating superstar.

Our Expert PanelDr. Dendy Engelmanis a New York-based board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon atShafer Clinic.Dr. Jeannette Grafis also a New York-based board-certified dermatologist, as well as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology atMount Sinai School of Medicine.

Our Expert Panel

Dr. Dendy Engelmanis a New York-based board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon atShafer Clinic.Dr. Jeannette Grafis also a New York-based board-certified dermatologist, as well as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology atMount Sinai School of Medicine.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com