The 17 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums of 2023 | by Byrdie

Ready to add a hyaluronic acid serum to your skincare routine? We conducted our own research and consulted experts for their recommendations. The result: a curated list of the best hyaluronic acid serums for every budget and skin concern. We considered ingredients, benefits, dosage, and sizes available. We then cross-referenced our picks with those of our experts.

“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.” 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.”

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably caught wind of the skincare industry’s current favorite ingredient, hyaluronic acid. 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.

What to Look For

Best Overall

Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum

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. 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,” Mahgerefteh adds.

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

Benefits: Hydrating, plumping, protective | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Small amount daily | Size: 1 ounce, 1.7 ounces, 2.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

4.2

Sephora

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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

Benefits: Hydrating, softening, anti-inflammatory | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Best Splurge

SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Serum

4.4

Dermstore

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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

Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Skin Type: All | Dosage: 4 to 6 drops twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Ourself HA+ Replenishing Serum

4.9

Ourself.

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What We Like

• Patent-pending delivery system to improve absorption

• Firming Intides™ help support skin’s natural barrier 

• 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 Commerce Associate Editorial Director, 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

Benefits: Hydrating, smooths lines, firms skin | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Small amount once or twice daily | Size: 0.5 ounces/1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best With Niacinamide

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

Benefits: Smoothing, hydrating, plumping | Skin Type: Mature, dry, sensitive | Dosage: Small amount twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

Best With Vitamin C

Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate

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. It does an especially excellent job of doubling down on wrinkles and discoloration with little to no irritation—all thanks to high-quality ingredients.

Price at time of publish: $130

Benefits: Boosts radiance, hydrating | Skin Type: Balanced, mature | Dosage: Twice daily | Size: 1.7 ounces, 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Best for Under Makeup

Glossier Super Bounce

4.5

Glossier

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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, or those searching for a little extra skin plumpness and smoothness. 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

Benefits: Hydration, smoothing, softening | Skin Type: All | Dosage: 3 to 4 drops | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

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Best for Dry Skin

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum

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 hyaluronic acid into their skin regimen,” says Dr. Wolinsky. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula is gentle and effective, locking in moisture for hours on end. Commerce Writer Caitlyn Martyn is a huge fan—her routine isn’t complete without it. “My dermatologist recommended this serum to me during my last visit; it’s similar to the brand’s Hydroboost Water Gel moisturizer (which has been a part of my routine forever), and works to boost the suppleness and softness of my skin—even when I’m using harsh actives like retinol and glycolic acid,” she explains.

Price at time of publish: $29

Benefits: Hydrating | Skin Type: Dry, balanced, combination | Dosage: Small amount a.m./p.m. | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

Best for Very Dry Skin

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

• 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. We’re smitten with a bunch of its features, we’re just not super crazy about the fact that it contains dyes.

Price at time of publish: $68

Benefits: Hydrating, softening, smoothing | Skin Type: Dry, balanced, combination, mature | Dosage: Small amount a.m./p.m. | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

Best for Sensitive Skin

Marla Rene Beauty & Co. Moisture Recovery Hyaluronic Serum

Marla Rene

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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. It’s also affordable at 55 dollars and a little bit goes a long way.

Price at time of publish: $55

Benefits: Hydrating, anti-inflammatory | Skin Type: Sensitive, balanced, dry | Dosage: 2 to 3 drops a.m./p.m. | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Oily Skin

Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate

Klur

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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. It’s worth noting that it does have a slight off-putting scent, but we’re willing to overlook that.

Price at time of publish: $70

Benefits: Plumping, hydrating | Skin Type: Oily, balanced, combination | Dosage: A few drops a.m./p.m. | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

Best for Mature Skin

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Hyaluronic Marine Hydration Booster

4.6

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

Benefits: Smoothing, hydrating, firming | Skin Type: Mature, balanced, dry | Dosage: A few drops a.m./p.m. | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

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Best for Acne-Prone Skin

ROSE Ingleton MD Skin Calming Booster

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.Note: 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

Benefits: Hydrating, anti-inflammatory, exfoliating | Skin Type: Acne-prone | Dosage: 3-4 drops once or twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The 20 Best Acne Creams of 2023

Best K-Beauty

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

4.5

Ulta

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Cosrx Snail Mucin Essence Review: This Miracle Elixir is Key for Hydrated Skin

What We Like

• High concentration of hyaluronic acid

• Targets dullness

• Generous amount

What We Don’t Like

• Not vegan-friendly

The Cosrx Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is essentially a serum intended to be used after cleansing to soothe and hydrate skin. With continued use, it helps heal inflammation, fades dark spots, improves skin texture, and delivers anti-aging benefits. As you may have guessed, the essence contains snail mucin (aka the excretion from a snail). As board-certified dermatologist Sheel Desai-Solomon, MD, previously told Byrdie, the excretion is naturally created and used by snails as a way to protect themselves. “It’s a trusted ingredient in the K-beauty world and has become a popular one as it can offer noticeable results,” she explains.  

Price at time of publish: $25

Benefits: Hydrating, boosts radiance | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Small amount once or twice daily | Size: 3.38 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Best Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Purified Hyaluronic Acid Pressed Night Serum

Amazon

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What We Like

• Contains purified, pressed hyaluronic acid

• Non-comedogenic gel-like moisturizer formula

• Melts into skin

What We Don’t Like

• Contains fragrance

As mentioned previously, we’re big fans of Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost series of hyaluronic serums and creams. This hyaluronic acid formulation in particular is supercharged with antioxidants and is a great option for use before bedtime. It goes on smoothly—like a gel-like moisturizer—making it a nice choice 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

Benefits: Hydrating, soothes dry skin | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Small amount once or twice daily | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Best Multi-Use

The Outset Firming Vegan Collagen Prep Serum

Sephora

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What We Like

• Feels refreshing

• Imparts a dewy, glowy finish

What We Don’t Like

• Can be irritating for some

Scarlett Johansson knows a thing or two about good skin—which is why we’re so thankful she created her own line of products. This lightweight serum is part of her collection, and it’s definitely a standout. We found that it does a really stellar job of refreshing the skin post-cleanse and imparts a dewy, glowy finish. The formula itself contains Hyaluroset™ Complex (aka the brand’s botanical alternative to hyaluronic acid), which plumps, nourishes, and smoothes skin, while vegan collagen improves the look and tightness of skin.

Price at time of publish: $46

Benefits: Hydrating, plumping, improves firmness | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Small amount twice daily | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Booster

Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster

Amazon

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What We Like

• Ultra-concentrated

• Plumping and hydrating

What We Don’t Like

• Small amount

Developed with a highly effective blend of visibly plumping ingredients (shoutout provitamin B5 and a triple-ceramide complex), this booster saturates skin with a rush of hydration. The result: Less-visible wrinkles and lots more suppleness. With continued use, you can expect your skin to retain moisture longer and look plumper.

Price at time of publish: $39

Benefits: Hydrating, softening, plumping | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Small amount daily | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes