The 8 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums That Keep Skin Soft And Hydrated

When it comes to molecular percentage, the lower the number, the smaller the molecular weight and the better it can permeate the skin. Cosrx’s Hyaluronic Acid 3 serum uses a 3% low molecular hyaluronic acid, which penetrates deeper and provides maximum moisture and hydration instantly and over time. This pick is hydrating enough to plump the driest, flakiest skin and lightweight enough to be worn under makeup. Plus, it includes ceramides and an amino acid complex to protect against external stressors.

The Ordinary has a cult following for its incredibly efficacious lineup of active ingredients at an affordable cost. This $10 serum hydrates skin without making it look greasy, a great option even for those with oily skin. It features five different forms of hyaluronic acid and added ceramides for skin barrier support without the slick occlusives like oils and silicones that can be found in alternative options.

A few drops of this luxurious serum morning and night help to boost skin elasticity, increase collagen and enhance the skin’s overall appearance. Packed with hyaluronic acid, peptides and a proprietary extract called BioMarine, these ingredients help to soften fine lines and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Isdin’s oil-free, non-comedogenic serum also gives skin a natural light-from-within glow minus the shine, and thanks to lentil extract, pores look more refined.

This serum has two major draws: an accessible price tag and an encapsulated delivery system. The latter means it releases moisture-boosting ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid around the clock, which work together for optimum results. Hyaluronic acid provides instant hydration, and ceramides help protect, repair, and restore damaged skin barrier over time. The consistency, similar to a thin lotion, absorbs into the skin quickly without leaving any sticky residue.

This fairly inconspicuous bottle contains a seriously impressive cocktail of active ingredients. Along with hyaluronic acid, this reparative serum features snow mushroom for added hydration, niacinamide, licorice root, tranexamic acid and three forms of vitamin C, which help fade hyperpigmentation and prevent the appearance of new dark spots. Plus, peptides and purslane help boost collagen formation to minimize the look of fine lines and maximize elasticity in the skin. The formula is also fragrance-free and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.

Although expensive, this effective gel-like serum works as both a humectant to absorb water into the skin and an emollient to lock water into the skin. Its potent blend of pure hyaluronic acid, Proxylane, licorice root and purple rice boosts skin’s hydration levels and helps improve texture and elasticity. Proxylane, a sugar protein found in certain types of wood, targets skin firmness and can help maintain a smooth, youthful complexion. 

This serum blends two types of hyaluronic acid—one with a high molecular weight and one low—to provide immediate surface- and deep-level hydration in a single formula. And those with oily or acne-prone skin can rest easy knowing the non-comedogenic formula goes on weightless and won’t exacerbate breakouts. Instead, it works to plump fine lines and smooth bumpy or uneven textures.

Anyone with oily skin would understandably want to avoid using anything too emollient for fear of it making their skin feel greasy. And while this serum is incredibly hydrating, the oil-free liquid gel-like texture melts right into the skin and dries completely matte. Added sodium PCA and silk proteins help reduce the look of fine lines and rough texture, leaving skin smoother and brighter.