The 15 best hydrating serums for dry skin 2023 | CNN Underscored

As we age, our skin changes in myriad ways. Instead of dealing with sporadic breakouts and oily T-zones, the skin instead loses its elasticity and becomes prone to dryness and dehydration.

No, you’re not imagining it: No matter your gender, your skin is definitely getting drier. “Many adults will experience dull, dry skin; irregularity in pigment and redness; and increased fine lines and deep wrinkles,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ope Ofodile, co-owner and partner of Dermatology and Surgery Specialists of North Atlanta in Marietta, Georgia.

Even more, Ofodile says that drinking water can help — but it’s no longer enough to ramp up oil production. So what can you do? Incorporating a hydrating serum that can replenish your skin barrier won’t just keep your complexion looking dewy and bright; it can also ward off fine lines and wrinkles.

“Well-hydrated skin requires both internal and external supplementation,” says Ofodile. “Adequate daily water intake remains vital in addition to topical treatments containing hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.”

Instagram post not found.

Post has been removed or is no longer public.

What does hyaluronic acid serum do?

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar found naturally in the skin that holds water, according to Dr. Corey L. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. “It’s a clear, thick gel-like substance that our body produces and can be found in high concentrations in the skin, connective tissue and eyes. It helps to retain and attract water, and keeps tissues hydrated and lubricated.”

Though it’s a relatively inexpensive ingredient, it’s the gold standard in terms of skin hydration — especially in serum form.

What do antioxidant serums do?

The merits of sun protection have been studied for decades, but it’s especially important as you age. Sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, dryness — and yes, melanoma. While SPF 50 or higher is an everyday essential for protection, there’s one more way to keep your skin hydrated: antioxidants. Ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E and niacinamide fall into this category.

“Antioxidants help to block some of the damaging effects of the sun during the day,” says Ofodile. If your skin is damaged, it can’t produce oil effectively.

The best hydrating serums for dry skin

Bliss Drench & Quench Serum

_Bliss-Drench-&-Quench-Daily-Hydrating-Serum.jpg

Amazon

This everyday serum features four types of hyaluronic acid, “which binds to water to plump and hydrate the skin,” Zeichner says.

$27 at Amazon

The best hydrating serums for mature skin

Depology Matrixyl 3000 Collagen Boosting Serum

depology-matrixyl-3000-collagen-boosting-serum.jpg

Depology

A great under-$50 option, this serum targets wrinkles and signs of aging with matrixyl 3000 — made from two peptides — as well as hyaluronic acid and glycerin.

$40 at Depology