10 of the Best Hyaluronic Acid Skincare Products To Try in 2024
January 22, 2024
Hyaluronic acid is one of our go-to skincare ingredients when it comes to achieving hydrated, dewy-looking skin—and for good reason. This humectant ingredient can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an effective skin hydrator for any skin type. Fortunately, including hyaluronic acid in your daily skincare routine is simple. You can find this hydrating ingredient in a wide variety of different skincare products, including facial serums, moisturizers, eye creams, and face masks. If you’re looking for the best hyaluronic acid serum or cream for your skin’s needs, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our 10 favorite hyaluronic acid products, plus some useful FAQs about this skincare VIP.
Our 10 Favorite Skincare Products With Hyaluronic Acid
For Radiant Skin: Kiehl’s Vital Skin-Strengthening Hyaluronic Acid Super Serum
For a hyaluronic acid serum that hydrates and helps correct visible signs of aging, check out this multitasking serum from Kiehl’s. The lightweight formula is suitable for all skin types (including sensitive skin) and features 11 kDa hyaluronic acid (their smallest form of hyaluronic acid, which penetrates eight skin surface layers deep*). When used consistently, this serum smooths skin texture, promotes radiance, and helps protect your skin against stressors like pollution, stress, and sun exposure.
*Based on a clinical study of 25 panelists measuring the penetration of the full formula via tape stripping.
For Mature Skin: Lancôme Advanced Génefique Night Cream
The Lancôme Advanced Génefique Night Cream works overnight to repair your skin’s moisture barrier while locking in hydration for up to 72 hours. It features a combination of hyaluronic acid and a triple ceramide complex, and leaves your skin looking plumper and more radiant.
For Hydration on a Budget: CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
You don’t have to spend big bucks to incorporate hyaluronic acid into your routine. This CeraVe serum is a drugstore steal that delivers major moisturizing power. The fragrance-free facial serum locks in moisture and smooths your skin’s surface texture over time. In addition to hyaluronic acid, it also contains other beneficial skincare ingredients such as vitamin B5 and CeraVe’s three essential ceramides.
For Dewy-Looking Skin: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Serum
For a pure 1.5% hyaluronic acid serum, check out this option from L’Oréal Paris. The lightweight, non-tacky serum is great for immediately hydrating dry skin and providing a dewy glow. Use this formula consistently for visibly plumped skin and reduced wrinkles over time.
To Help Strengthen the Skin Barrier: Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum helps strengthen and repair your skin’s natural moisture barrier. This daily hydration booster with pure hyaluronic acid and Vichy volcanic water gives your skin a plump, smooth appearance. It also helps combat visible signs of aging caused by environmental factors such as UV rays and pollution.
For Blemish-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel
The SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel is a splurge-worthy serum formulated with vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid. Use it to enhance your daily moisturizing regimen without clogging your pores, thanks to its oil-free formula. Plus, it features travel-friendly packaging that makes it an ideal pick for hydrating your skin on the go.
For Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Apply the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum to your face and neck twice a day after cleansing to enjoy plumper-looking, moisture-rich skin. We love that this anti-aging serum with hyaluronic acid and La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water is allergy-tested and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
For Fine Lines: IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Lines Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Get plumper- and smoother-looking skin in as little as two weeks with this hyaluronic acid serum from IT Cosmetics. As the name indicates, the clinically-tested formula targets fine lines with a blend of hyaluronic acid, peptides, and vitamin B5.
For Deep Moisture: Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Deep Moisture Miracle Cream
If you’re in the market for a hyaluronic acid moisturizer, try the Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Deep Moisture Miracle Cream. Considering how deeply this luscious cream moisturizes your skin, its incredibly light texture will leave you pleasantly surprised.
For Under-Eye Hydration: Garnier Green Labs Hyalu-Aloe Super Hydrating 3 in 1 Serum Gel With Hyaluronic Acid + Aloe Vera
If you like your skincare to have an ultra-refreshing feel, we recommend picking up this lightweight serum-gel hybrid from Garnier. It offers the super hydration of a moisturizer with the power of a refreshing hyaluronic acid serum. Plus, it also acts as a brightening eye cream that instantly reduces the look of under-eye puffiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyaluronic Acid
What do hyaluronic acid serums do?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), hyaluronic acid serums can enhance skin hydration by as much as 55%. This is because hyaluronic acid is a humectant, a substance that works by pulling water into your skin (similar to a sponge). Incorporating hyaluronic acid into your daily skincare routine can help promote skin that appears smoother, plumper, and more vibrant overall. Plus, over time, hyaluronic acid can help nourish your skin, making it feel softer and more supple.
When should you use a hyaluronic acid serum?
Hyaluronic acid serum can be used as part of your morning and/or evening skincare routine to help support hydrated, healthy-looking skin. However, in order to reap the full benefits of your hyaluronic acid serum, you’ll need to apply it correctly. If you’re applying hyaluronic acid in serum form, apply it onto clean, damp skin (after cleansing and before moisturizing) to help seal in hydration. With that said, formulations vary, and it’s always best to follow the instructions on the product packaging.
What’s the best form of hyaluronic acid?
There are as many as seven different forms of hyaluronic acid. However, only three of the variations are used in skincare: hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and sodium acetylated hyaluronate. Each of these variations gets broken down into smaller molecules to help them penetrate skin deeper and lock in moisture for longer.
The best hyaluronic acid for your skin’s unique needs will depend on several factors, such as your skin type, personal preferences, and your skin’s hydration needs. If you have oily skin or combination skin, the relatively large hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid could be your best hyaluronic acid option, as it can help with light moisturization. On the other hand, midsized sodium hyaluronate can provide moderate hydration for normal skin types. And the smallest of the bunch, sodium acetylated hyaluronate, may quench dry, dehydrated skin most effectively.
Can you use hyaluronic acid and vitamin C together?
Research shows that hyaluronic acid and vitamin C may work synergistically to support hydrated, smooth, and youthful-looking skin. According to the Cleveland Clinic, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are often used together in skincare formulations to help enhance product absorption.
When it comes to which formula you should apply first, hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, it all depends on the products you’re using. In general, you should apply lighter formulas first (such as serums), followed by heavier formulas (such as face creams). Always follow the instructions on the product packaging when applying hyaluronic acid and vitamin C products.
Which ingredients should you avoid using with a hyaluronic acid serum?
As mentioned above, hyaluronic acid is usually considered suitable for all skin types. However, since hyaluronic acid skincare products are often blended formulations, be sure to check the ingredient list before deciding if a product is right for you. Those with dry or sensitive skin may want to avoid potentially irritating or drying ingredients, such as alcohol, fragrance, or harsh astringents.
If you’re prone to breakouts, look for non-comedogenic hyaluronic acid serums and creams, which are formulated not to clog your pores. When in doubt, reach out to a board-certified dermatologist who can help you identify the ideal skincare ingredients to pair with hyaluronic acid based on your skin’s needs.
Should you use hyaluronic acid every day?
Many hyaluronic acid serums and creams are formulated for daily use. In fact, using hyaluronic acid consistently as part of your morning and/or evening routine may help you get the most out of your chosen formula. Just remember to follow the directions on the packaging and apply as directed on the label.
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