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20 best hyaluronic acid serums for seriously thirsty skin, tried and tested
Because a moisturiser isn't always enough!
This guide is frequently updated with early Black Friday 2025 deals, featuring verified savings and limited-time offers. We’ve checked availability and prices for each product.
Hyaluronic acid is a beauty buzzword and for good reason. It may sound like something you'd use with a Bunsen burner in a GCSE science class, but it's actually the one ingredient you need to add to your skincare routine, asap.
We all know there is no single wonder product that can stop skin ageing (unless Pamela Anderson is keeping a secret stash to herself), but hyaluronic acid has been proven to plump the skin, minimise fine lines and reduce signs of dryness and dehydration. No wonder it's one of the beauty world's best face serums...
To help you navigate the ever-growing skincare market, we chatted with ingredient guru Paula Begoun, founder of skincare brand Paula's Choice. Here, she tells us why hyaluronic acid should be in everyone's routine, and what you should be looking out for on your skincare labels.
The best hyaluronic acid serums
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Best hyaluronic acid serum for sensitive skin
Cerave CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum 30ml
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What are the benefits of using a hyaluronic acid serum?
"You should see smoother, less lined, more moisturised skin almost instantly and you will notice your skin feels softer, too," explains Paula, saying everything we want to hear. "Over time, fine lines and wrinkles will become less apparent, skin will maintain a youthful plump and supple feel, and be much less prone to showing signs of dryness and dehydration.
"Used as part of a skincare routine that includes daily sun protection, products with hyaluronic acid naturally restore the skin’s ability to look and act younger. It isn’t a miracle cure, but it’s a beautiful ingredient for maintaining your skin."
Looks like we'll all be stocking up on hyaluronic acid serums then, shop our favourites below:
Pros
- It contains an impressive 1.5% hyaluronic acid
- It has a silky and weightless consistency
Cons
- The formula can pill if too much is applied
Fun fact for all you fact fans out there, one of these is sold every minute in the US and because it proved to be so popular, they eventually brought it to the UK. Plus, it's an affordable option with 1.5% hyaluronic acid, which is more than the standard in most drugstore products.
Glowing customer review: “Smells really nice and fresh, love the dropper and a little goes a long way! As an ex beauty therapist, I’d deffo recommend this, leaves your skin feeling bright and smooth!”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Three weights of hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler
Pros
- It gives instant and long-lasting hydration
- It sits well under makeup
- It's not suitabe for all skin types can get involved
Cons
- For a more affordable bottle, opt for the original Medik8 Hydr8 B5 serum
With soothing panthenol, skin-identical ingredients like urea and glycerin and gently exfoliating lactic acid, this is no ordinary hyaluronic serum, it's the full monty. It's a little more expensive, but as one of the best hyaluronic acid products in the business, it's worth every single penny. Trust us.
Glowing customer review: “In two weeks, my skin looked noticeably less dehydrated. I like that it absorbs quickly into the skin, which is great when layering other products. I have already repurchased even though my current one isn't finished.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, Natural moisturising factors (binds and holds onto moisture). |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Cerave CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum 30ml
Pros
- It's rich in texture and feels comforting to use
- Ceramides and vitamin B5 strengthen the skin barrier
Cons
- The packaging doesn't have the 'wow' factor compared to others on this list, but for an impressive ingredients list, we can overlook that
This is probably the most hyped-up HA serum on TikTok. Unlike most serums, which are more liquid-y, the texture is like a light moisturiser but the benefits are just as hydrating. Plus, with the addition of ceramides and vitamin B5, it gets a big thumbs up for its skin barrier protection, too.
Glowing customer review: “I started using this since getting dry skin around my nose. It feels nice and not oily. Compared to other serums that are runny this one is like a moisturiser which is very good to use on its own or as a primer base.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hylaronic, Ceramides, Vitamin B5 |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Pros
- It has been formulated to complement injectables, so it does a stellar job at plumping out fine lines and wrinkles
- You can even apply it over your lips for a plumping effect
- It hydrates the skin for 48 hours
Cons
- The price tag 👀
If you're in the mood to splash some cash, let it be on this superior, hydrating serum. While the cost might seem slightly extreme, we can confirm that the addition of ingredients proxylane, liquorice root and purple rice make it all worth it. You'll notice a difference in no time.
Glowing customer review: “This product is so worth the price. It’s a league above other products. My skin is plumper, fresh looking & fine lines have reduced. Would definitely buy again.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, liquorice root, purple rice (to prevent moisture loss) |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing the SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Serum
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Serum
Pros
- It's formulated with low and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid for sustained hydration
Cons
- It can feel tacky once dried down
La Roche-Posay is known for impeccable formulas and high-quality ingredients, and this little blue bottle is no exception. The formula contains two different sized molecules of hyaluronic acid, both of which inject skin with moisture. The larger molecule works on the surface of the complexion to hydrate, whilst the smaller molecule penetrates deeper to plump skin with moisture and smoothens out the appearance of fine lines.
Glowing customer review: “I’ve used many serums over the years and this one is a firm favourite in terms of value for money. I have dry eczema prone skin and have noticed such a difference in my skin since using this!! A little goes a long way and it leaves my face feeling super hydrated!”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Serum
Pros
- It also contains niacinamide to brighten and tackle acne scarring
- It's an affordable option
Cons
- The fluid texture may feel to lightweight for some
Budget skincare brand, Byoma, has been making waves across the internet thanks to their epic formulas and purse-friendly price tags.The brightening serum contains ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to give a hydration hit. It's gentle, meaning it's great for everyone – particularly those just starting out in skincare.
Glowing customer review: “I will keep buying this over and over. My pigmentation has reduced and my skin is so glowy.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing the Byoma Brightening Serum
Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum
Pros
- It instantly quenches dry skin
- It feels silky and weightless
Cons
- It is one of the less potent serums on this list, but a great choice for those with oily skin
This thirst-quenching serum is light on the ingredients list (there's only 11 in total), but weighty in the hydration department.If you're on the oilier side, or just hate the feel of heavy products on your skin, you'll love how quickly this lightweight serum sinks in.
Glowing customer review: “I've been using this for 6 years and have lost count how many times I’ve repurchased this, it’s great for sensitive skin and absorbs really well.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, glycerin and Vichy's mineral-rich volcanic mineralising water |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Booster Serum
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum
Pros
- It now contains ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier
- Multi-weight hyaluronic acid hydrates at the surface and into the deeper layers of the dermis
Cons
- It can pill if too many layers are applied
The new-and-improved version of The Ordinary's hyaluronic acid serum contains ceramides and pro-Vitamin B5, which means it gives an instant plump dewiness to the skin, whilst working behind the scenes to replenish hydration levels. The clever formula contains 5 forms of hyaluronic acid, which allows it to hydrate multiple layers of the surface of skin. An A* serum for under a tenner.
Glowing customer review: “Exceptional quality and price point for the magic potion in a bottle.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, pro-vitamin B5, ceramides |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum
Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Revitalizing Toner
Pros
- It's the perfect pre-makeup skin prep
- It works as a toner and serum in one
Cons
- Can we get a bigger bottle, please?
Sure, this is more of a toner than a serum, but if you sandwich this between your cleanser and moisturiser, it'll flood your skin with hydration. It's all thanks to the blue hyaluronic acid that's fermented with deep sea algae which gives it a smaller molecular weight so it penetrates the deeper layers of your skin. Pat it on before makeup application too for a juicy and dewy finish.
Glowing customer review: “This toner is sooo good it’s the only water based product that doesn’t dry out my skin immediately. My skin feels supple and so moisturised and hydrated after use.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid fermented in seaweed, beta-glucan, probiotics |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare testing the Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Revitalizing Toner
Paula's Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster
Pros
- It also contains ceramides to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier
- You can use it alone or add two-three drops into your moisturiser to give it a hydration boost
Cons
- It's a little expensive
What makes Paula's Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster so unique is that it's formulated alongside restorative ingredients like ceramides to immediately hydrate skin and lock in moisture.
These ceramides are major components of the skin's outer layers but can damaged. They're necessary for water retention and so, this product is perfect for giving a restorative boost – particularly for those who may suffer from skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. Replenishing, restoring and above all, hydrating!
Glowing customer review: “Love this product. I mainly use it under the eyes and brush it a bit on the face from there. This gives you a real boost of freshness and looks much more alert. ”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, ceramides |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Garnier SkinActive Hyaluronic Aloe Super Serum
Pros
- Aloe vera soothes dry and irritated skin
- It's an affordable option
- It contains 3% hyaluronic acid
Cons
- It takes consistent use to see results
Sunburnt? Sensitive skin? Well, Garnier's hyaluronic serum is formulated with aloe vera and glycerin, both of which are soothing and hydration superchargers. It seeps into the skin almost instantly, making it perfect for wearing under makeup.
The best thing about it? The price, ofc – because why should the budget beauty Queens among us *raises hand* be priced out of glowing skin?
Glowing Customer Review: “I’ve been using this for over a year and it’s made a huge difference to my skin, clearer and more hydrated.”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and glycerin |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Pros
- It adds instant hydration without feeling tacky on the skin
- It's affordable
- The compact tube makes it easy for travel, too
Cons
- Some may prefer a formula with additional ingredients, like ceramides
This formula contains 2% pure hyaluronic acid, basically turning your skin into a moisture magnet. It doesn’t apply tacky and absorbs quickly, too, meaning it also feels great under makeup. Oh, and did we mention it's less than a tenner? Bargain.
Glowing Customer Review: “I just had microneedling done and this is saving my skin in the regeneration process! I can use it as much as I want because it’s so hydrating and helps with the healing. 10/10 will be buying again!”
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| Fragranced? | No |
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Fashion and Beauty E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. She has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, creating matter-of-fact reviews and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need – whether that’s a glow-giving foundation, a high-tech LED face mask or the perfect wear-with-everything blazer.
Alongside writing, Clare loves to be in front of the camera creating shopping content, putting viral products to the test to see which ones are truly worth the hype. Through her work, she has interviewed leading dermatologists, makeup artists and industry experts to bring readers trusted advice and product recommendations.
Clare has contributed to titles across the Hearst UK portfolio, including Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Red and Prima. Prior to joining Hearst, she earned a BA in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on magazines and editorial. She later worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events including Fashion Week and interviewing notable brand founders.
Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling through London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or heading to a Pilates class.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
Keeks Reid is the Beauty Director at Cosmopolitan UK. While she loves all things beauty, Keeks is a hair fanatic through and through. She started her career in beauty journalism in 2013 as editorial assistant at Blackhair and Hair magazines working her way to Acting Editor of Blackhair magazine at 23 years old. She spent much of her career working in trade hairdressing media at Hairdressers Journal, Salon International and the British Hairdressing Awards. Which is why she is a regular contributor to Cosmo's Curl Up franchise. Now, alongside her Cosmo work, she presents, creates content on social media and works with a range of beauty companies; from magazines and websites to beauty brands and salons.
Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
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