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Hyaluronic acid has been a buzzword in the skincare community for quite some time and with good reason: its main purpose is to hold its weight in water, retaining moisture and ultimately creating smoother, plumper skin while giving you some awesome hydration.
Below we are featuring some top-notch topical hyaluronic acid serums for the face. These are a great way to ensure your skin gets the hydration it needs and/or enhance the hydration already given by your current moisturizer. Many of our options also include an antioxidant blend including Vitamins C and E to not only hydrate but brighten and protect the skin as well.
While the benefits of incorporating these serums are plenty, using them might not be so clear. As they are lightweight on the skin, it is recommended to apply after cleansing and toning the skin, prior to moisturization and can be easily used day and night.
Our Favorite Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face
Moon Juice Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Best Overall
The Moon Juice Hyaluronic Acid Serum is an effective and clean skin care product that provides intense hydration and elasticity to the skin. Its two-way hydrating power enables your skin to stay hydrated for a longer period of time. This serum contains powerful, active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, PGA peptides, beet amino acid, silver ear mushroom, and adaptogenic reishi. The combination of these ingredients has been designed to cool, calm, and soothe your skin.Â
This serum also helps to improve the skin's natural barrier function, thus protecting it from oxidative stress. The key ingredients are vegan and cruelty-free, creating a safe and effective product for all types of skin. The serum is free of parabens, petroleum, pesticides, propylene or butylene glycols, phthalates, sulfates, PEGs, and silicones, leaving you with a natural and pure product that is both healthy for you and the environment. This serum makes the top spot on our list for the hydrating and calming properties it provides your skin.Â
Pros
- Noticeable difference in moisture level
- Plumps skin without making it oily
- Incredibly soothing with calming fragrance
Cons
- Expensive price tag
Tree of Life Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Organic Option
The Tree of Life Hyaluronic Acid Serum is an ideal choice for anyone looking to achieve a visibly brighter, more youthful complexion. The two-pack set provides options for both day and night, with the retinol serum reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while evening application of both serums promotes firmer and more hydrated skin. This product is formulated with all-natural, cruelty-free ingredients that are made suitable for all skin types and tones.Â
It contains thoughtfully chosen ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and retinol, that work to soothe, reduce signs of aging, plump the skin, and improve elasticity. With its easy-to-use liquid drops, simply apply them on clean skin to enjoy the benefits of this serum duo. For optimal results, follow up the application with a moisturizer and sunscreen use to protect against sun sensitivity resulting from retinol usage. Also, for peace of mind, Tree of Life offers a 30-day money-back guarantee should you not be satisfied with your purchase.Â
Pros
- Hydrates and moisturizes skin
- Provides gentle exfoliation
- Great value for moneyÂ
Cons
- Can irritate sensitive skin
ISDIN Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Deep Hydration
Indulge your skin with the ISDIN Hyaluronic Acid Serum, a travel-sized water-gel serum that offers deep hydration and impressive skin benefits. This serum is formulated to provide a plumping and smoothing effect, leaving your skin with a satin finish. Incorporating this serum into your daily routine helps maintain your skin's natural moisture levels and promotes a soft, radiant glow.
Specifically designed to combat early signs of skin aging, this hyaluronic acid serum targets concerns such as fine lines and dullness. It features a multi-functional blend of hyaluronic acids that deliver exceptional hydration, keeping your skin moisturized and revitalized. Suitable for all skin types, this serum is easy to incorporate into your skincare regimen. Simply apply it morning and night on clean, dry skin. Gently massage it onto your face and neck using circular motions until fully absorbed. The water-gel texture glides effortlessly, providing a luxurious and silky-smooth feel upon application. It absorbs quickly, leaving behind a satin finish.
Pros
- Deep hydration and plumping effect
- Satin finish for a smooth appearance
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Requires additional products to combat signs of aging
Pure Daily Care Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Long-Lasting Hydration
By using it on a daily basis, the Pure Daily Care Hyaluronic Acid Serum can provide you with long-lasting hydration, restore your skin's barrier, and provide anti-aging properties. The serum is manufactured in the USA and has never been tried out on animals before. In terms of application, the hydraulic acid serum should be applied daily to your face and neck right after having a shower. The manufacturer even suggests that you use some of their special devices to boost the effectiveness of the product. The quality is backed by several third-party laboratories. You will be able to purchase this best overall serum in two size quantities: 1 fluid ounce and 4 fluid ounces.Â
Pros
- Clinically tested and proven
- Free of synthetic parabens
Cons
- The acid serum dries out very quickly
Q+A Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Most Efficient
The Q+A Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a revolutionary new product designed to provide intense hydration to the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The powerful serum offers the perfect combination of anti-aging properties and moisture retention, allowing users to achieve healthy and plump skin. Additionally, the Biosaccharide Gum encourages collagen production in the skin and helps further to intensify the moisturizing effect of the Hyaluronic Acid.
Pros
- Reduces fine lines
- Balances moisture levels
- Vegan-friendly and natural formula
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
Cons
- Takes time to show results
SeoulCeuticals Serum — Lovely Scent
Dry skin can be hard to deal with, especially when it comes to wearing makeup. It can just end up looking cakey if not moisturized well. You can take care of this problem by using this high-quality Korean hyaluronic acid serum to help your skin retain moisture. Not only does this serum hydrate dry skin, but it’s also a good way to reduce dark spots on the skin and get a brighter complexion. It is made with 98% natural ingredients, is healthy for your skin, and has been featured in many popular magazines.
The best part is that you won’t have to wait long for this hyaluronic acid serum to work since it shows results in as little as three weeks. It’s safe to use daily and can be used under makeup as well.Â
Pros
- Can be used on all skin types
- Can help fade sun spots and hyperpigmentation
- May also reduce the appearance of wrinkles
- Has a great citrusy scent
Cons
- Serum may oxidizeÂ
Cosmedica Skincare Serum — Most Convenient
This serum is an essential addition to any daily skincare regimen as it works to fill in and diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles by providing intense moisture and balance. Over regular use, you will notice improved skin texture, brightness, and overall plumper, smoother skin. Use as you would any serum by applying a small amount onto freshly cleansed skin, morning or night, or blend in with your favorite moisturizer or cream for added hydration.
Pros
- This serum is gentle and will work for all skin types, including sensitive
- Can be used morning and night
Cons
- This may take some time to see results
Brandefy Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Best Anti-Aging
Give your face a real treat with the Brandefy Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This serum will transform your dull skin into shiny, smooth skin that looks decades younger. The clinically proven ingredients, like the peptide complex, vitamin E, and green tea, will add antioxidants to your skin while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Give your skin a helpful boost in the morning and evening with this amazing formula.Â
Compared to other, more expensive creams that can cost in the hundreds, Brandefy is offering this top-of-the-line formula for just $34! The hyaluronic acid blended with the 4% niacinamide serum will fight inflammation, hydrate your pores, regulate oil production, and even increase your skin’s resiliency so even after you’re done with the bottle, you’re still seeing the benefits.Â
Pros
- Fights signs of aging
- Increases skin resiliency
- Affordable product
Cons
- Packaging not the best
TruSkin Naturals Serum — Most Reliable
This serum is a user-favorite and highly-concentrated, plant-based hyaluronic acid-based serum. In addition to its hydration and plumping qualities, this serum has been fortified with Vitamins C and E to add antioxidant protection from free radicals and environmental stressors. With this potent anti-aging formula, you can feel good knowing your skin is being provided with the key nutrients needed to restore it to its youthful and vibrant appearance.
Pros
- High-quality, natural and organic ingredients make this serum ideal for all skin types
- Enhances the moisturizing properties of your facial creams
Cons
- There may be a faint scent to the product
Tree of Life Serum — Also Consider
This serum contains Vitamins C and E plus green tea to ensure you receive the moisturizing and soothing benefits that come with this acid treatment. The serum helps protect skin against free radicals while reducing inflammation and offers increased moisturizing effects. With over 98% natural and 72% organic ingredients, this serum also includes witch hazel and jojoba oil to keep your skin plump and soft.
Pros
- This product is 100% vegan and cruelty-free
- Targets fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- If you suffer from acne, you may want to try a different option
Asterwood Naturals Serum — Unmatched Quality
This serum is 100% vegan hyaluronic acid. Another great option for delivering intense hydration, this serum will also reduce fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a smoother, more vibrant appearance. With continued use, you will notice enhanced skin elasticity, a more even skin tone, and improved texture. Safe for daily use, simply apply a few drops on cleansed skin or blend in with your moisturizer, and for maximum results, you can even use it both day and night.
Pros
- No oils, fragrances, or parabens have been added to this product
- This product is safe for all skin types and will not clog pores
Cons
- If you suffer from very sensitive skin, start out using once per day and build up
Amara Beauty Serum — Quickest Absorption
Made from the highest quality vegan hyaluronic acid, this serum is another option to incorporate both Vitamins C and E for an amazing hydrating barrier. This serum absorbs quickly into the skin with no greasy or sticky residue and should be applied after toner, starting with a small amount to the entire face, morning or night.
Pros
- You can also use this serum on the neck and decolletage areas
- Effective, yet gentle enough to use day and night
Cons
- If you don’t like a pump dispenser, another option might be better
Orlette Serum — Strongest Formula
This hyaluronic acid serum has a potent 4% solution, making it one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid and providing extra strength in fewer drops. Still extremely gentle on the skin, this formulation has added Vitamins C and E for extra antioxidant protection on the skin and won’t leave an oily feel or clog pores. Other nutritious ingredients include aloe vera, witch hazel, jojoba oil, horsetail plant extract, green tea, and geranium essential oil.
Pros
- A little goes a long way, so the bottle will last a while
- The extra-strength formula allows maximum hydration
Cons
- Test out on a small area prior to initial use
Buying Guide: Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face
When you think of acid, you probably think of skin peels and general exfoliating abilities. However, the top hyaluronic acid serums for the face in 2024 have no exfoliating properties. Instead, hyaluronic acid absorbs into the skin and takes plenty of moisture from the air with it.
If you have dry or aging skin, you will see and feel an instant improvement after the first use of hyaluronic acid serum. Hyaluronic acid serums come in a variety of formulas and contain varying amounts of active ingredient.
So, how do you choose the best product? To answer that question we will disclose some useful information about hyaluronic acid as well as some ingredients you should look for. Later in the article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about hyaluronic acid serums.
Continue reading to ensure you purchase the best possible product for your needs.
Ingredients in Hyaluronic Acid Serum for the Face
Percentage of hyaluronic acid
Most hyaluronic acid serums have between one and two percent hyaluronic acid content. Hyaluronic acid pulls moisture from the air. When it is highly concentrated, it will have a stronger pulling power. If it does not get enough moisture from the air, it will pull it from the deeper layers of your skin.
If you choose to use a serum containing more than two percent hyaluronic acid, it is important to put moisturizer over your skin, to prevent the deeper layers of skin from becoming dry.
Hyaluronic acid molecular size
Many serums claim to use hyaluronic acid with a lower molecular weight. The benefit of this is that it absorbs more easily into the deeper layers of skin, making it feel super moisturized and fuller. However, some people have skin reactions to this form of hyaluronic acid and not the more natural version with a regular molecular size.
Other beneficial ingredients
Hyaluronic acid draws water from the air and pulls it into the skin. However, your skin will quickly lose its moisture as hyaluronic acid alone does not lock it into the skin. This is why it is a good idea to look for serums also containing the following ingredients:
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant. It protects the skin from free radicals including UV rays, pollution, and bacteria.
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant. As well as having the same benefits as vitamin E, it reduces the appearance of age spots by reducing melatonin production in the skin. It also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Aloe vera
Aloe vera reduces swelling. It also aids healing, reduces the likelihood of scarring, and encourages the skin to produce more collagen.
- Jojoba oil
Jojoba is also an antioxidant and has the qualities this provides. Like aloe vera, it can speed up the healing process. It is non-comedogenic meaning it does not clog the pores. This is a great moisturizing ingredient that is good for those who often get pimples.
- Geranium essential oil
Geranium essential oil is antibacterial but will not dry out your skin. It is also anti-inflammatory.
- Green tea
Green tea is another ingredient that is a massive antioxidant. It also has great anti-inflammatory abilities.
- Shea butter
Shea butter is highly moisturizing and will make a great natural barrier to keep the hyaluronic acids moisture locked in. It also has anti-inflammatory properties as well as being full of antioxidants.
- Witch hazel
Look for a serum containing witch hazel if you have large pores and acne. Witch hazel will tighten your pores and reduce inflammation.
- Horsetail plant extract
The horsetail plant contains massive amounts of collagen and will give your skin a boost. Using this will reduce the appearance of wrinkles and make your skin feel fuller and firmer.
Other Things to Consider When Purchasing Hyaluronic Acid Serum for the Face
Size
Consider the size of the bottle you are purchasing. You may get better value for money when purchasing a larger bottle.
Scent
The scent of the product should be a pleasant one. However, avoid any serum that has added fragrance, as this can cause many people to have an adverse reaction in the skin.
Money-back guarantee
Consider purchasing a product with a money-back guarantee. Some companies offer a refund within a certain time limit if you are not happy with the product.
Tested by dermatologists
A product that is tested by dermatologists is proven to be safe on the skin for the majority of people.
Vegan and cruelty-free
Vegan and cruelty-free products are not tested on animals and contain no animal derivatives such as milk or honey.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum for the Face: Price Range
For a good-quality hyaluronic acid serum, you should budget between $12 and $30. There are more expensive products on the market, but you will find that there is not much difference between their quality and the quality of a product at a lower price point.