18 best hyaluronic acid serums of 2025, tested by Glamour editors
Do you ever find your skin to be tight, dry and uncomfortable at the end of a long day? Fret not. The best hyaluronic acid serums are formulated to reveal a restored, visibly supple and smooth complexion – even when you're battling the winter elements. Whether you need a specific dry skin routine or just want to boost your skin's moisture levels during a long, cold winter, there are countless benefits of hyaluronic acid that can help with dryness. We can almost hear our skin breathing a sigh of relief.
“A single gram of hyaluronic acid can also hold up to six litres of water,” says aesthetic doctor Dr Barbara Sturm. And consultant dermatologist, Dr Justine Kluk, believes it is the key molecule involved in skin moisture, with a “unique capacity to target, bind and retain water molecules.”
It’s no wonder hyaluronic acid is trending again on TikTok (with millions of searches for “best hyaluronic acid serum” on Google to match). Chances are, it’s already sitting in your skincare stash – from your favourite cleansers and toners to your everyday moisturiser. But if you’re after serious hydration, it's within face serums that this ingredient really shines. Hyaluronic acid serums are lightweight, soothing and non-irritating, which makes them suitable for every skin type (yes, even oily and acne-prone complexions).
Instead of letting you scroll endlessly through ingredient lists and trending TikTok recommendations, we’ve done the hard work for you. With the help of dermatologists and our beauty editors’ expertise, here’s the ultimate edit of the best hyaluronic acid serums worth your time.
- What is hyaluronic acid?
- What are the benefits of using a hyaluronic acid serum daily?
- How to apply HA serum
- Can hyaluronic acid and retinol be used together?
- Can hyaluronic acid and vitamin C be used together?
- What does it mean when different hyaluronic acids have different molecular weights?
- How do I choose the best HA serum for my skin type?
- Our full reviews
How we tested hyaluronic acid serums:
GLAMOUR editors have trialled hundreds of hyaluronic acid serums, putting each one through its paces for at least a month across different skin types and tones. We look at how well each formula delivers on hydration, whether it improves skin’s overall feel and appearance, and if it offers good value for money. We also keep an eye out for any irritation or flare-ups along the way. Only the serums that pass our checks make it into this list. Find out how we test here.
Firework content
Meet the experts:
- Dr Barbara Sturm, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Barbara Sturm.
- Dr Justine Kluk, consultant dermatologist.
- Dr Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.
- Dr Jodi LoGerfo, a doctor of nursing practice certified in dermatology.
- Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin
Read on to discover the best hyaluronic acid serums for radiant skin in 2025, approved by GLAMOUR.
Kate Somerville HydraKate Power Plumping Primer
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica, Glycerin.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Fragranced? Lightly fragranced.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
Why we love it: As someone who lives for products that make life easier, this one is a total win. It’s a 3-in-1 serum - aka - a serum, moisturiser and primer packed into one chic, colourful bottle. The hyaluronic acid gives skin that juicy, plumped-up feel, while the primer element creates a smooth, radiant base, so makeup glides on like a dream.
Yes, it’s one of the pricier serums on the list, but here’s where the girl math comes in: you’re essentially getting three products in one, and the bottle is far bigger than most. For me, anything that’s going to save me time (and shelf space) is worth the investment - oh, and the results are pretty good too. - Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Pros & ConsPros- 3-in-1 formula
- Hydrates and plumps
- Larger bottle than most
Cons- Expensive
- May be too rich for very oily skin types
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: Intense hydration at a modest price.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: This lightweight hyaluronic acid serum is not only incredibly affordable, but it's also great at providing deep hydration and nourishment. Plus, it works hard to smooth out fine lines, and provides a pleasant cooling sensation that helps to soften and replenish your skin with each use.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Cooling on the skin
Cons- Some prefer a dropper applicator
Tropic Rainforest Dew Hydration Serum
- Best for: A dewy finish.
- Skin type suitable for: All
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, plant peptides, evergreen fern extract
- Cruelty-free? Yes
- Fragranced? No
Why we love it: This serum does exactly what it says on the bottle - delivers a big hit of hydration that makes skin feel instantly softer, plumper and refreshed. Hyaluronic acid draws in moisture, while plant peptides give a subtle firming boost and evergreen fern extract helps to calm any redness. The texture is lightweight, absorbs quickly and leaves behind that healthy, dewy glow without a hint of stickiness.
It’s also a lovely option if you prefer natural-leaning formulas, and the refillable bottle gets bonus points for being sustainable as well as skin-friendly. A great everyday staple if your skin craves hydration but you don’t want anything too heavy.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight hydration with a dewy finish
- Gentle, calming formula suitable for all skin types
- Cruelty-free and refillable packaging
Cons- Pricey
- May feel too light for very dry skin on its own
L'Oréal Paris 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Revitalift Filler Serum
- Best for: Smoothing and plumping.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: If you're looking for a serum that will restore radiance and moisture this product is hard to beat. Featuring a high concentration of 1.5% hyaluronic acid, this formula has won our hearts thanks to its soothing and nourishing properties, which leave your skin feeling brand new.
Save big when shopping for the best hyaluronic acid serums with these Amazon discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Plumps and smooths fine lines
- Deeply hydrating
Cons- Can feel slightly sticky on application
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Serum
- Best for: Hydration and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Made with a brilliant blend of two types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, this formula plumps and smooths the skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and promotes suppleness — making it a great choice for anyone looking for an anti-aging hyaluronic serum.
Plus, the allergy-tested, paraben-free and oil-free formula is an optimal choice for those prone to sensitivity. Dr Lolis points to the two different types of hyaluronic acid present in this serum — one high molecular weight, one low — which ensure deep hydration and moisture within the skin.
Pros & ConsPros- Contains two types of hyaluronic acid
- Oil-free formula
- Fragrance-free
Cons- Thick texture can feel sticky on skin
Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: A lightweight gel texture.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: According to Dr. Lolis, Vichy’s Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum works to improve the skin on two fronts: Hyaluronic acid plumps and smooths, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while Vichy’s signature French volcanic water helps make skin more resilient to environmental stressors that contribute to visible signs of ageing. Over time, the complexion is visibly smoother and healthier-looking. The gel formula is lightweight without feeling sticky or looking too shiny — it simply absorbs into the skin within moments, providing both an immediate burst of hydration as well as long-lasting results.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight gel texture that absorbs quickly
- Hydrating
- Strengthens skin’s barrier against daily stressors
Cons- May not feel rich enough for very dry skin
- Not cruelty-free
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% and B5
- Best for: Plumping and smoothing.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and glycerin.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Remade with a new and updated formula, this drugstore hyaluronic acid serum not only carries an affordable price tag, but it also easily matches other products on the market when it comes to quality. We're most impressed with its formulation, which combines 5 different types of low, medium and high-molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid. It also features a HA cross-polymer as well as vitamin B5, delivering “multi-depth” hydration and visibly more plumped skin. One of the best budget options around.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable
- Multi-weight hyaluronic acid gives layered hydration
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
Cons- Can feel a little tacky on the skin
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum
- Best for: Overnight hydration.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, caffeine, chamomile extract.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Tired of waking up to dry skin? Same. This hydration booster serum is basically ‘beauty sleep’ in a bottle, delivering long-lasting moisture for up to 72 hours a time. Featuring a myriad of quality skincare ingredients, this serum is a cult-favourite for a reason. Our former Beauty Commerce Writer Denise Primbet has been using this formula for over 3 months: “I'm not usually one who would advocate for expensive skincare, but having used the popular Estee Lauder Night Repair serum for a while now, the benefits are undeniable: my complexion is visibly bouncier and brighter.”
Pros & ConsPros- Provides deep, long-lasting hydration
- Helps skin look brighter and bouncier over time
Cons- Expensive
- Not cruelty-free
Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum
- Best for: Glowing, dewy skin.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: If you’re hoping to achieve that glowy summer look, then Beauty Pie’s hyaluronic acid serum is definitely worth checking out. We’re big fans of the formula, which features “gravity-fighting” peptides and smoothing ceramides. And yes, you read that right, it features a triple-weight hyaluronic acid blend to hydrate your skin on a whole new level.
Pros & ConsPros- Triple-weight hyaluronic acid
- Peptides and ceramides help firm and smooth skin
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
Cons- May not feel rich enough for very dry skin on its own
- Need a membership for best pricing
Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum
- Best for: Hydrating and soothing.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, provitamin B5 and pineapple ceramides.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Looking for an antioxidant-rich serum that can help shield your skin from environmental aggressors while providing up to 24 hours of hydration? Say no more. Suitable for all skin types, this nourishing beauty product also contains provitamin B5, which helps soothe inflammation and promote natural collagen production.
Pros & ConsPros- Provides up to 24 hours of hydration
- Packed with antioxidants
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
Cons- Texture may feel too light for very dry skin
- Results rely on consistent, daily use
Kiehl's Ultra Pure 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Plumping High-Potency Serum
- Best for: A plump, refined complexion.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Made with just seven ingredients, this highly potent hyaluronic acid serum is suitable for all skin types, and is a great choice for anyone looking to achieve visibly more plump skin. “As someone who's always loved Kiehl's for its simple yet effective formulations, I had to give the 1.5% hyaluronic acid serum a go. Before I knew it, it had made its way into my ‘favourites' cabinet, thanks to its lightweight feel and high-potency formula," shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Pros & ConsPros- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight texture that layers easily with other products
Cons- Not cruelty-free
- Doesn’t include added actives for concerns beyond hydration
Caudalie Vinohydra S.O.S Hyaluronic Serum
- Best for: Deep hydration and shielding against daily aggressors.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: 100% natural-origin hyaluronic acid, organic grape water, squalane and glycerin.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? Yes - a light, refreshing scent.
Why we love it: If your dehydrated complexion is crying out for a skin saviour, we'd recommend adding this staple to your basket. Powered by 100% natural-origin hyaluronic acid, this smoothing serum will keep dry skin happy and hydrated for hours on end. Caudalie's hero grape water makes an appearance, which is simply packed with antioxidant-rich polyphenols and prebiotics, and anti-inflammatory squalane hydrates, softens and smooths.
Pros & ConsPros- Natural formula - good for sensitive skin
- Antioxidant-rich
- Shields against daily aggressors
Cons- Not cruelty-free
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: Long-lasting hydration.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and ceramides.
- Cruelty-free? No.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: A favourite option among many experts, like dermatologist Teresa Song, this budget-friendly pick checks all the boxes for a sensitive-skin-friendly serum. Fragrance-free? Check. Packed with skin-soothing ingredients? Check, thanks to a healthy dose of vitamin B5 and three different ceramides, which are naturally occurring lipids (or fat) in the skin. Dermatologist-formulated? Check. The smooth gel-cream texture feels light on the skin and absorbs within seconds for instantaneous nourishment and moisture. The ultra-gentle formula even includes some niacinamide to help calm and soothe irritated skin.
Pros & ConsPros- Budget-friendly
- Ceramides strengthen skin barrier
- Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin
Cons- Texture may feel too rich for oily skin
- Not cruelty-free
- Best for: Non-sticky hydration.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Refreshing feel, smooth application, nearly instant results… What's not to love? This lightweight serum features a 2% hyaluronic acid complex in combination with pro-vitamin B5, offering concentrated hydration without causing breakouts or inflammation. Together, the two ingredients work to rejuvenate the skin while promoting long-term hydration that’s ideal for acne-prone skin types, Dr. Lolis says. In fact, some reviewers note a decrease in acne, likely due to the serum’s ability to strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall skin texture.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight, non-sticky texture
- Hydrates without clogging pores
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
Cons- Mid-range price for a fairly simple formula
Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum
- Best for: Hydrating and gradual self-tanning.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, cocoa seed extract and vitamin E.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? Yes - a light raspberry scent.
Why we love it: At GLAMOUR, we *looove* any skincare product that can simplify our routine by doing two things at once. That's why we rank this self-tanning serum so highly – it's deeply hydrating, thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and more. Plus, it also gives you a radiant glow that's bound to fetch a few compliments.
Pros & ConsPros- Hydration and self-tan in one
- Lightweight, buildable glow
- Cruelty-free with added skincare ingredients
Cons- Light fragrance may not suit everyone
- On the pricier side for a tanning serum
Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
- Best for: Hydrating and creating a fresh, dewy look.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Kakadu plum, illawarra and burdekin plums.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? Subtle plum scent that immediately dissipates.
Why we love it: Is your skin feeling thirsty? Not to worry – this lightweight serum contains 5 different weights of hyaluronic acid to give your complexion the moisturising boost it deserves. Oh, and it also comes with a range of skin-loving ingredients such as vitamin C and silk proteins that help keep your skin in top condition too.
Pros & ConsPros- Five weights of hyaluronic acid
- Packed with extra skin-loving ingredients like vitamin C and silk proteins
- Cruelty-free
Cons- Expensive for size
- Light plum scent may not suit everyone
Paula's Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster
- Best for: Plumping, smoothing and strengthening.
- Skin type suitable for: All.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and vitamin B5.
- Cruelty-free? Yes.
- Fragranced? No.
Why we love it: Brimming with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamin B5, this staple serum is the ideal addition to any skincare routine for an extra boost of hydration. The star ingredient is ceramides, which help strengthen your skin barrier, improve hydration, and help to prevent moisture loss and damage from environmental stressors. The result? Overall healthier-looking skin, that's hydrated, bouncy and radiant.
Pros & ConsPros- Strengthens skin barrier with ceramides
- Deep hydration from hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
Cons- Expensive
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that helps to prevent water loss and strengthen your skin's natural moisture barrier, resulting in hydrated, soothed skin. Even though it's called an 'acid', hyaluronic acid is the complete opposite of retinol serums, as well as glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids. It won't provide an exfoliating effect, or rid you of dead skin cells, dark spots and blemishes.
Although hyaluronic acid is a natural component of skin, the ingredient you find in hyaluronic acid serums and creams is a synthetic version. And, before you worry about putting this acid on your skin, remember not all acids are astringent. Milk is slightly acidic, as is our natural skin mantle. Hyaluronic acid falls at between 5.0 (the same acidity as a cup of milky coffee) and 8.0 (which is almost neutral) on the pH scale, while our skin usually sits between 4.5 and 6.2, making it a very gentle match.
What are the benefits of using a hyaluronic acid serum daily?
There are countless benefits of hyaluronic acid. According to Dr LoGerfo, the beauty of hyaluronic acid really lies in its astounding humectant properties, which enable the ingredient to attract and hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
Not only does this keep the skin supple and hydrated, but it also helps to uphold elasticity, soothe irritated skin, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As a result, Dr Lolis says, hyaluronic acid can be a great addition to any skincare routine, regardless of your particular concerns.
How do I choose the best hyaluronic acid for my skin type?
There are a few different factors to consider, so we'll break it down below:
- Concentration: A concentration of 0.5-1% is ideal for all skin types, with the maximum recommended being 2%. Hyaluronic acid can't be massively potent, as it becomes too thick and gloopy and unpleasant to use.
- Formulation: Some formulas have added ingredients such as ceramides, AHAs, and vitamin B5 included to deliver increased benefits, such as plumping, brightening, and soothing. You can also find formulas combined with humectants like glycerin, beta-glucan and sodium PCA, which increases the hydrating power.
- Skin type: You want your hyaluronic acid to work in tandem with your skin, so check the ingredient list to see what other ingredients have been included. Those with sensitive skin would benefit from soothing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, those with acne-prone or oily skin may prefer a lightweight, oil-free serum with salicylic acid or niacinamide, and those with mature skin may want a formula rich in plumping ceramides.
How to apply a hyaluronic acid serum
Wondering how to use hyaluronic acid serum in your skincare routine? The best way to is on slightly damp skin after cleansing or a shower, as the molecule needs moisture to work in the first place.
If you apply hyaluronic acid to dry skin in a dry climate such as your heated flat in winter, you're in danger of making your skin even more parched. Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin clinics, explains: “Hyaluronic acid will draw moisture from wherever it can find it, including the deeper layers of your skin, if there is no humidity in the air.”
So, after popping your serum on damp skin, make sure to follow up with a moisturiser packed with emollients, such as glycerin and ceramides, to lock in the hydration.
Can hyaluronic acid and retinol be used together?
Wondering if you can pair hyaluronic acid with other face serums, like retinol? The answer is a resounding yes.
“Hyaluronic acid is extremely gentle and versatile, so it is okay to use with other products,” Dr. LoGerfo explains. “Sometimes it’s helpful to use hyaluronic acid with other ingredients that can be slightly irritating — like retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid — because it can help tone down the irritant nature of those products.”
The expert advises using retinol serums and hyaluronic acid together at night, although you can use a hyaluronic acid serum alone in both the morning and at night.
Can hyaluronic acid and vitamin C be used together?
If you're a die-hard fan of the best vitamin C serums, you'll be pleased to know that hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are a dream team for your complexion.
As we know, hyaluronic acid helps to keep the skin hydrated, and it's a perfect pairing when added with vitamin C, which lessens the look of dark spots, fine lines and sun damage. The result is a hydrated, bright and smooth appearance.
Vitamin C even improves hyaluronic acid's effectiveness by supporting its ability to retain moisture, prevent water loss and strengthen the skin barrier.
And, as above with retinol, the ingredients are often paired together as too much vitamin C can be drying and irritating. Hyaluronic acid brings a nourishing, soothing element to help keep your moisture barrier in check.
As for which to use first, apply the formula that has the thinner, lighter consistency first, and then apply the thicker serum, moisturiser and SPF on top.
What does it mean when different hyaluronic acids have different molecular weights?
Different weights of hyaluronic acid refer to its molecular mass, or the size of the molecule. You can get hyaluronic acid in molecular weights of low, medium or high.
The size of a molecule determines how deeply it can be absorbed into the skin. The largest, heaviest molecules will sit on top of the skin and attract water to the outermost layer, while smaller molecules can be absorbed through the skin barrier, where they attract water internally to plump skin underneath.
But whichever size your serum has, they all have benefits…
- High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid has larger molecules that sit on the skin's surface, forming a protective barrier and preventing moisture loss, delivering immediate hydration.
- Medium Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid uses not too small, not too big molecules to help retain moisture slightly below the skin’s barrier.
- Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid has small molecules that absorb deeper into the skin's layers, providing long-lasting hydration.
Looking to take your skincare routine to the next level? Make sure to check out our guides for the best moisturisers and lotions, best face toners, best eye creams, best face cleansers and the best face SPFs.
