12 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums of 2024 for Hydrated, Glowing Skin
If you want to add a hyaluronic acid serum to your skincare routine, we've rounded up the very best on the market right now - including a cult favourite that's currently on sale.
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Hyaluronic acid is by far the most popular skincare ingredient of the last decade — a simple Google search for “best hyaluronic acid serums” returns a staggering 17.6 million results.
But while hyaluronic acid can have incredible benefits for your skin (hello, hydration), not all serums containing the seemingly magic ingredient are created equal.
The truth is that while hyaluronic acid often gets touted as a universal fix-all for all, it’s important to choose the right serum for your skin type.
Our top pick? The L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Serum which is currently on sale at Amazon for $31.84, down from $59.99.
It's one of Amazon's beauty best sellers, with this top-rated serum gaining rave reviews from shoppers - "best serum I've ever used" said one user, with another noting it offers "hydrating powers".
Keep on scrolling to see this and more of our curated picks of the best hyaluronic acid serums.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST HYALURONIC ACID SERUMS: EDITOR’S PICKS
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, $15.90 at The Ordinary
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% B5 Treatment
Why we love it: The cult-favourite serum, loved by millions, has now been re-formulated.
What to consider: May not feel as premium as other skincare formulations.
Formula: Water-based serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor
The Ordinary’s best-selling hyaluronic acid has been reformulated and let me be the first to tell you it’s a game-changer. I was a fan of their OG hyaluronic acid for giving you intense hydration at such an affordable price point, proving that you didn’t need to spend an arm and a leg for science-backed skincare. I was not the only one - The Ordinary hyaluronic acid is the brand’s number one selling product, with over 4.5 million units sold to date. However, I eventually stopped reaching for it as much as it left a tacky residue on your face (which to be fair is common with hyaluronic acid serums).
But The Ordinary have listened to customer feedback and the updated cult serum’s texture is much improved. It’s more lightweight than the original, making it more easily absorbed and therefore leaving none of that sticky residue. It still delivers an intense hydration hit, with the improved serum now including five types of hyaluronic acid, ceramides and B5.
I was lucky enough to be given a bottle before the launch on February 14 and have been using it daily for the past few weeks. In comparison to its predecessor, this reformulation feels silkier, soaking into the skin beautifully, and the effects of the hydration last longer. With regular use, it’s left my skin feeling soft, supple, brighter and naturally dewy. I don't usually love when brands change up their products, especially bestsellers, but I have to admit, The Ordinary’s hyaluronic acid is now even better than before.
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Serum
Why we love it: This hardworking hydrating serum has rave reviews from online shoppers.
What to consider: Some users didn't feel an instant hydrating effect.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
What You Need To Know
If you want a hardworking hyaluronic acid serum that’s suited to all skin types – and has rave reviews – you can’t look past this one from L’Oreal.
It hydrates and plumps the skin, therefore improving your skin texture, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and leaving you with a glowing complexion. There’s also no greasy finish left on your skin after use.
Those who’ve used the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Serum are convinced of its hydrating powers, and it’s racked up an average rating of 4.5 out of five on Amazon.
One happy reviewer saying: “This serum is the best that I’ve ever used! Very comfortable and moisture effective! Feel much firming after using a month! Fabulous!!” Another said the serum has been like an "iron for my wrinkles".
Kiehl's Hydro-Plumping Serum Concentrate, $127 at Kiehl's
Why we love it: The results are almost instant and is a super lightweight consistency.
What to consider: High price tag, although you do get more product than other serums.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
If you want that 'glass skin' look, then this is the serum you're going to wanto use. Formulated with epidermal hydration filler and 15 per cent glycerin, Kiehl's skin-plumping serum offers a unique serum-to-liquid technology that works hard to penetrate up to 10 surface layers of the skin.
Ir's racked up close to 600 five-star ratings on the Kiehl's website, with rave reviews calling it their "skin saviour" and noting "in just three days my skin feels well nourished, smooth and hydrated".
"Lightweight yet effective in plumping the skin", said another five-star rating customer.
Inika Organic Hyaluronic Hydration Complex, $89 at Inika Organic
Why we love it: This vegan and cruelty-free serum is packed with plant-based ingredients to hydrate the skin.
What to consider: May not be affordable for some.
Formula: Water-based serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for a more natural hyaluronic acid that puts sustainability at the forefront, then you’re going to want to give the Hyaluronic Hydration Complex from Inika Organic a red-hot go.
The oil-free serum promises to feel super lightweight on the skin and is housed in a beautiful glass jar that looks absolutely divine on your beauty counter.
It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and Kakadu plum, both working together to completely hydrate and brighten your skin, as well as increase elasticity.
It’s racked up an average rating of 4.9 out of five on the Inika Organic website, with five-star rating customers commenting that “it has become part of my daily skin routine”.
“Leaves my skin softer, smoother and more hydrated,” said another happy reviewer.
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex, $190 at Adore Beauty
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex
Why we love it: Estee Lauder's best selling serum is a multi-use product that addresses a number of different skin concerns.
What to consider: High price tag.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml
What You Need To Know
An icon of beauty, Advanced Night Repair has been a bestseller for years, with 22 bottles selling every minute somewhere around the world — that’s roughly one bottle every two seconds! It has an average 4.6 star rating from over 75,000 Google Reviews, with five star reviews saying it “lives up to the hype”. Promising to hydrate skin for 72 hours, Advanced Night Repair contains hyaluronic acid plus a peptide ferment and plant-derived ingredients to transform skin.
BEST AFFORDABLE HYALURONIC ACID SERUMS
Frank Body Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $26 at Frank Body
Why we love it: Affordable price point and rave reviews from shoppers.
What to consider: Some users could not tell a difference when including this serum into their routine.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor
This hyaluronic acid serum is my favourite on this list and as also one of the most affordable on this list it’s proof that you don’t need to break the bank to get results.
I’m very fussy when it comes to hyaluronic acid but this one from Aussie brand Frank Body ticked all the boxes for me — it is lightweight and absorbed quickly leaving me with glowing, plump skin that was next level.
The Frank Body Hydrating hyaluronic Acid Serum is ideal for layering under other products as it doesn’t pill — I also found it the perfect primer under foundation as it gave a glowy finish.
Over time I noticed my skin was looking noticeably more plump and hydrated — this serum really works for me.
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $38.99 at Adore Beauty
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Why we love it: Hydrates and softens the skin at the same time - thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid and peptides.
What to consider: Some users with sensitive skin types did not enjoy this product.
Formula: Cream | Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 30ml
What You Need To Know
With hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides (lipids that protect skin and prevent moisture loss), this soothing serum will hydrate and plump skin. If you need something long-lasting, the Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum offers a patented multivesicular technology to ensure your hydration levels will be maintained for 24 hours.
Five-star rating Adore Beauty customers have said it “leaves skin hydrated and feeling fresh”, while others said it is “very hydrating and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin”.
BEST HYALURONIC ACID SERUMS FOR VERY DRY SKIN
Dr Naomi Let It B Hydrating Serum, $129 at Sephora
Why we love it: This hydrating serum is great for repairing damaged skin barriers, and comes in eco-friendly refills.
What to consider: Some users did not enjoy the way this absorbed into the skin.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 35ml
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I started using this hydrating serum a few months ago and have fallen in love. It is so nourishing and makes my very dry skin and dehydrated skin feel instantly better. I use it morning and night and I have definitely noticed an improvement in my skin. It also absorbs amazingly well and has no trouble with pilling. Yes, it is expensive but it’s totally worth it in my opinion.
Much Plumper Skin, $48 at Go-To Skincare
Why we love it: This popular serum is Australian made, fragrance free and safe for both pregnancy and those with sensitive skin.
What to consider: May not be affordable for some.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
This is a hydrating serum I have purchased so many times. Aptly named ‘Much Plumper Skin’, that seriously is what it does.
Much Plumper Skin contains peptides, provitamin B5 and four different types of hyaluronic acid. The hydration and moisture it provides is insanely good and it leaves my skin feeling so soft and glowy. Plus, it’s also hard to look past the price. In comparison to much more expensive serums, this one definitely holds its own.
BEST HYALURONIC ACID FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum, $69.99 at Adore Beauty
Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum
Why we love it: Specifically formulated for sensitive skin types.
What to consider: May not be affordable for some.
Formula: Serum | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor
As well as hyaluronic acid this serum has vitamin B3 to strengthen your skin barrier as well as Avène’s signature Thermal Spring water which is famous for its skin-soothing properties. I loved how quickly this hydrating serum absorbed into my skin. It’s super lightweight and has an instant plumping effect.
BEST HYALURONIC ACID SERUMS FOR MATURE SKIN
Elizabeth Arden Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide Capsules Hydra Plumping Serum 60pc, $160 at Myer
Why we love it: Innovative formulation that deeply penetrates the skin.
What to consider: High price tag.
Formula: Serum capsules | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 60 pieces
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor
I’m a big fan of Elizabeth Arden’s range of serums which all come in single dose biodegradable capsules that make it easy to ensure you’re giving your skin the right dose of hydration.
When trialling this serum I loved how it gave my skin a visibly plumped-up appearance and smooth base – it made a fantastic primer for makeup.
Hada Labo Lotion No. 1 Super Hydrator, $35.95 at Priceline
Hada Labo Lotion No. 1 Super Hydrator
Why we love it: This Japanese formulation is fast absorbing and doesn't leave a sticky residue.
What to consider: Some users may not like the watery consistency.
Formula: Water-like consistency | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 150ml
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor
I’ve only recently discovered the wonders of J-Beauty (Japanese Beauty) but now I am hooked. And one of the best products I’ve tried is this “anti-ageing lotion super hydrator” from Japan’s number one best-selling skincare line, Hada Labo. And apparently, one hydrating serum sells every two seconds.
Now don’t be confused by the word “lotion” like I was at first – in Japanese skincare lotion doesn’t mean moisturiser, it’s more like a serum or essence. It’s packed with Hada Labo’s signature ingredient “super hyaluronic acid” which is basically hyaluronic acid on steroids. It’s super hydrating and works so well to lock in moisture. Plus, it also contains retinol and collagen to help fight signs of ageing.
After using this for the past month, my skin feels and looks so much fresher, healthier, and glowier. Win! It’s not like your typical hyaluronic acid serum either, it’s got an incredibly lightweight texture (essence like so more of a watery consistency) so it’s easy to apply and can be reapplied multiple times during the day. It’s also fast absorbing so while it feels a bit sticky when you first pat it on, it soaks into your skin quickly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue that I find happens with other hyaluronic acids. Best of all, it comes in a huge 150ml bottle which will last you forever.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A HYALURONIC ACID
When choosing hyaluronic acids to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Skin Type: Different skin types may require different formulations - if you have super dry skin, you may want a hyaluronic acid coupled with peptides and other extra hydrating ingredients. And yes, even oily skin and acne prone skin needs hydration!
Budget: You can normally find a reasonably priced hyaluronic acid, so don't think you have to break the bank to get a hardworking hydrating and plumping serum.
Accessibility: Hyaluronic acid is one of the most popular skincare ingredients, so you can generally find it at most beauty online retailers.
Finish: Some hyaluronic acids can feel quite sticky and tacky when applied to the skin.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
With hundreds of serums available, it’s impossible to test every product out there. To help you find the best hyaluronic acid serum we tested a bunch of well-known brands at different price points. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best hyaluronic acid serum for your skin.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic acid works by attracting up to 1000 times its weight in water - so it functions as a humectant and holds water molecules onto the surface of your skin to keep it nice and hydrated.
But don’t be put off by the word “acid” Dr Shobhan Manoharan, dermatologist and medical director at Brisbane Skin in Queensland, says it’s produced naturally by the body.
“Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the extracellular matrix of the skin that decreases with age,” Dr Manoharan tells news.com.au checkout.
WHAT DOES HYALURONIC ACID DO TO THE SKIN?
“It is the key molecule that assists our skin to stay hydrated and plump by attracting and locking in moisture, and also boosts collagen production.”
Hyaluronic acid is present in many skincare and beauty products but using a serum will give you the most concentrated dose.
HOW TO USE HYALURONIC ACID
Think of hyaluronic acid as the social butterfly of your skincare routine – it gets along swimmingly with other ingredients and is zero fuss.
“Based on your specific skincare routine, hyaluronic acid can be used either in the morning or at night,” says Dr Manoharan.
“This moisture-binding ingredient hydrates the skin and doesn’t tend to interact negatively with other active ingredients, so it is a good one to layer under your retinol or antioxidant products.”
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