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Hyaluronic acid is popular in moisturizers, serums, and masks because it can soothe and hydrate the skin. People can use it alongside other ingredients that add to the hydrating effect of this acid.
Best hyaluronic acid moisturizers:
- Best for combination skin: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA | Skip to review
- Best for mature skin: Éminence Firm Skin Acai Moisturizer | Skip to review
- Best for fine lines: BeautyStat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream | Skip to review
- Best for sensitive skin: Peach & Lily Repair Moisture Cream from Troxederm | Skip to review
- Best gel cream: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel | Skip to review
- Best budget moisturizer: Advanced Clinicals Hyaluronic Acid | Skip to review
- Best for very dry skin: Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance | Skip to review
- Best for long lasting hydration: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench | Skip to review
- Best for plumping: Dr. Brandt Hyaluronic Face Cream | Skip to review
Best hyaluronic acid serums:
- Best for all skin types: Tatcha The Dewy Serum | Skip to review
- Best for acne: SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel | Skip to review
- Best hypoallergenic: La Roche-Posay Hylaru B5 Serum | Skip to review
- Best for damaged skin: BioRepublic Magic Moss Serum | Skip to review
- Best water-based serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | Skip to review
- Best naturally-derived formula: Typology Hydrating Serum | Skip to review
- Best sustainable: OSEA Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum | Skip to review
- Best with a nonsticky formula: Vichy Mineral 89 | Skip to review
- Best unscented: CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Skip to review
- Best with ceramides: Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster | Skip to review
- Best budget serum: The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid | Skip to review
Best hyaluronic acid masks:
- Best for overnight use: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Overnight Mask | Skip to review
- Best for under-eye skin: Skin Authority Under Eye Rescue Mask | Skip to review
- Best for extra moisture: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask | Skip to review
- Best with collagen: TonyMoly Master Lab Mask Sheet | Skip to review
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried any of these products. All quotes are provided by Veronica Zambon, a Market Editor for Medical News Today, who bought products with her own money.
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that is present in the skin and joints throughout the human body. It performs various functions throughout the body, from soothing the skin to healing wounds and lubricating joints.
As people age, levels of hyaluronic acid tend to decrease in the outer layer of their skin (aka epidermis). This reduction in hyaluronic acid can contribute to skin aging by making the skin drier and less elastic.
Hyaluronic acid can retain water and hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water molecules. This characteristic makes it popular in skin care products, like hyaluronic acid moisturizers.
Moisturizers are heavier lotions or emollients that
Serums tend to be thinner than moisturizers. These products are oil- or water-based and may absorb into the skin faster. Additionally, some manufacturers claim that serums penetrate deeper into the skin than moisturizers, providing more intense hydration.
Serums may be a better option for people who find moisturizers too thick. Others may prefer using a serum before applying moisturizer as a last step in their skin care routine.
Learn more about whether serum or moisturizer should go first here.
Moisturizers are typically the last step in a person’s skin care routine. They help lock in moisture and create a barrier protecting against pollutants.
Best for combination skin: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Price: $6.50–$13.50
- Size: 30 or 100 milliliters (mL)
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, minerals
- Customer rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars (from over 840 reviews)
This hyaluronic acid moisturizer contains amino acids, glycerin, fatty acids, triglycerides, and hyaluronic acid. The company calls this combination of ingredients Natural Moisturizing Factors, and it is designed to keep the outer layer of the skin protected and hydrated.
This moisturizer is reportedly nongreasy and contains 11 amino acids. It is also vegan and alcohol- and cruelty-free.
The Ordinary advises people to conduct a patch test before using this product.
What our tester says
“I had been looking for a budget-friendly moisturizer that truly leaves my skin hydrated and refreshed for a while when I came across The Ordinary. I have combination skin that borders on dry and am prone to blemishes. I’ve been using this moisturizer twice daily as the last step in my skin care routine, and my skin is noticeably smoother and clearer.
I bought the 100 mL version and still have around three-quarters of the bottle left. I’ve found that I don’t need to use that much to cover my face and neck — although this could be because I use a serum and face oil beforehand — leaving me impressed with how good value this moisturizer is.”
– Veronica Zambon, Market Editor II at Medical News Today.
Pros
- cruelty-free and suitable for vegans
- less expensive in comparison with some brands
- suitable for all skin types
Cons
- some reviewers state the moisturizer is not suitable for very dry skin
- some people say that the moisturizer has a white cast
- according to some customers, this product made their acne worse
Best for mature skin: Éminence Firm Skin Acai Moisturizer
- Price: around $58
- Size: 60 mL
- Main ingredients: botanical hyaluronic acid, acai berry juice, shea butter
- Customer rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from over 220 reviews)
Made specifically for aging skin, this product is designed to hydrate the skin to make it look younger, seem plumper, and feel softer.
It is made from natural products, such as acai berry juice, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid from marshmallow plant extracts.
Éminence recommends people apply one layer of moisturizer to the entire face and neck area. If a person requires a lighter application, they can dilute the product with a few drops of water.
Pros
- reportedly helps plump and hydrate thinner and aging skin
- gluten- and nut-free
- many reviewers state that the product leaves their skin feeling smoother and hydrated
Cons
- a more expensive option
- fragrance is too strong for some reviewers
- several customers state they received out-of-date products from Amazon
Best for fine lines: BeautyStat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream
- Price: around $70
- Size: 1.7 ounces (oz)
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, Bifidus, mushroom extract, ceramides
- Customer rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (from 276 ratings)
This moisturizer is designed to be lightweight and nongreasy. Along with hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer contains fermented Bifidus, reishi mushroom extract, ceramides, and pomegranate sterols.
BeautyStat claims that this product acts as a protective shield against everyday pollutants and can help smooth fine lines on the face and neck.
Pros
- cruelty-free and suitable for vegans
- suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- does not contain fragrances or parabens
Cons
- a more expensive product
- some reviewers state the product pills on the face
- other customers say it is not moisturizing enough for very dry skin
Best for sensitive skin: Peach & Lily Repair Moisture Cream from Troxederm
- Price: $50
- Size: 1.7 fl. oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, black soybean, Camellia leaf extract, oatmeal
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 42 reviews)
First designed for people experiencing very sensitive and dry skin after operations, this product uses black soybean, Camellia leaf extract, and oatmeal as well as hyaluronic acid to prevent inflammation.
The company describes this cream as soothing, nourishing, and hydrating.
This cream is the final step in a person’s skin care routine. According to Troxederm, this product has. a serum-like feel, making it ideal for those who prefer more lightweight products.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- may reduce inflammation and redness
- reportedly more lightweight than other moisturizers
Cons
- some customers state that a bottle lasts less than 1 month, making it very expensive
- some reviewers mention a defective pump, making it difficult to get any product out
Best gel cream: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Price: around $27
- Size: 1.7 oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from over 80,000 reviews)
This gel cream is free from oil and reportedly has a lightweight feel. Neutrogena states this product absorbs fast and provides extra and long lasting moisturizing action due to its gel formula.
The company states that this gel is suitable for all skin types. Additionally, it is noncomedogenic, which means it will not clog pores. This may help reduce acne breakouts.
Pros
- packaging is easily recyclable
- more affordable than many products
- suitable for all skin types
Cons
- has fragrance
- gel left a cast on the face of some customers and made their skin feel dry
Best budget moisturizer: Advanced Clinicals Hyaluronic Acid
- Price: around $20
- Size: 16 oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, ceramides, aloe vera
- Customer rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (from over 72,000 reviews)
This cream comes in a 16 oz bottle, making it the most affordable product on this list.
As well as hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer contains vitamin E, ceramides, coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera. These ingredients help moisturize and soothe irritated skin.
Advanced Clinicals states that this moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types, particularly for aging skin
- most affordable product on this list
- suitable as a body lotion as well as for the face
Cons
- has fragrance
- some reviewers mention experiencing a burning sensation when using this product
Best for very dry skin: Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance
- Price: around $47
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, aloe vera
- Customer rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from over 2,680 reviews)
According to Dermalogica, this vegan, lightweight moisturizer restores lipid balance for dry and depleted skin.
The ingredients in this product aim to rebalance the skin’s natural microbiome, strengthen the skin’s barrier, and lock in hydration, leading to smoother and more nourished skin.
The company recommends this product for people with very dry skin.
Pros
- cruelty-free and vegan
- no parabens, artificial fragrances or colors
- lightweight formula
Cons
- more expensive option
- no difference in some reviewers’ skin after using the cream
Best for long lasting hydration: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench
- Price: around $54
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, pentavitin, hydrolyzed silk
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from over 4,750 reviews)
This moisturizer reportedly contains three molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid. These differing weights penetrate different areas of the skin, which the company claims leads to softer, smoother, and more supple skin.
Additionally, the product contains pentavitin. Peter Thomas Roth states that this ingredient provides 72 hours of hydration, even after cleansing.
Pros
- no added fragrance
- may provide up to 72 hours of hydration
- suitable for all skin types
Cons
- the company cannot guarantee that the moisturizer is not tested on animals
- too lightweight for some reviewers who say it feels more like a gel
Best for plumping: Dr. Brandt Hyaluronic Face Cream
- Price: around $72
- Size: 1.7 oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides
- Customer rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (from 63 reviews)
This moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and peptides. Dr. Brandt states that these ingredients can help plump and firm the skin, providing visible results immediately.
This cream can provide up to 72 hours of hydration. As well as reducing fine lines and wrinkles, this moisturizer is suitable for very dry and dehydrated skin.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types
- light scent but not an artificial fragrance
- cruelty-free and suitable for vegans
Cons
- expensive in comparison to competitors
- some negative reviews comment on air bubbles in the jar and quality issues between different stockists
People may prefer to use serums instead of moisturizers as they are more lightweight. Some companies recommend using serums before locking in moisture with a moisturizer.
Best for all skin types: Tatcha The Dewy Serum
- Price: $89
- Size: 1 oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, squalene lactic acid
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 190 reviews)
Tatcha claims that this 3-in-1 serum is suitable for all skin types. It is made with the company’s own complex, Hadasei-3. The serum claims to resurface the skin by removing dead skin cells and replenishing the skin’s stores of squalane and hyaluronic acid.
The company also states that the product encourages natural skin cell turnover, makes the skin seem plumper, and locks in moisture.
The company claims this serum does not block the pores or contain synthetic fragrances.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types
- no synthetic fragrances
- noncomedogenic
Cons
- expensive
- not effective for some customers
Best for acne: SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel
- Price: $90
- Size: 30 mL
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 945 reviews)
This serum is oil-free and suitable for very dry and acne-prone skin. Vitamin B5 reportedly helps to repair the skin’s natural barrier, keeping it smooth and clear.
SkinCeuticals recommends using this product instead of moisturizer or alongside moisturizer if a person has very dry skin.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types
- TSA-approved
- free from parabens, alcohol, dyes, and fragrances
- effectively hydrating for many reviewers
Cons
- expensive in comparison to other products
- company is not cruelty-free
- drying for some reviewers
Best hypoallergenic: La Roche-Posay Hylaru B5 Serum
- Price: around $40
- Size: 1.01 fl oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, glycerin
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from over 19,500 reviews)
This serum targets fine lines and wrinkles whilst hydrating the skin to plump and repair.
La Roche-Posay states that this product is allergy tested. While it does contain fragrance, the company says it is hypoallergenic and suitable even for sensitive skin.
The vitamin B5 in the formula helps to moisturize and smooth the skin, whereas the madecassoside nourishes.
Pros
- company claims the product can plump skin in 4 hours
- allergy tested and is suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- company is not cruelty-free
- strong and unpleasant fragrance according to some reviewers
Best for damaged skin: BioRepublic Magic Moss Serum
- Price: around $28
- Size: 25 mL
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, moss
- Customer rating: no reviews
BioRepublic formulates this serum for damaged skin. According to the company, It can also help prevent future damage and dryness.
As well as hyaluronic acid, the formula contains moss essence. It is a sustainable moss that helps the skin retain moisture. According to the manufacturers, daily use of this product can strengthen the nuclei in the skin cells.
Pros
- cruelty-free and suitable for vegans
- 00% recyclable packaging
- suitable for all skin types
Cons
- no customer reviews on Amazon
- smaller container than many competitors
Best water-based serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Price: $8.90–$15.70
- Size: 30 or 60 ml
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, panthenol
- Customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars (from 678 reviews)
This serum is water-based and reportedly provides hydration to multiple layers of the skin.
The Ordinary states that this serum is suitable for all skin types. It has a pH of 6–7.5 and is free from gluten, oil, silicones, and alcohol. Additionally, it is vegan and cruelty-free.
Pros
- cruelty-free and suitable for vegans
- suitable for all skin types
- free from gluten, alcohol, oil, and silicones
Cons
- unpleasant skin reactions reported by some reviewers
- not as effective as the company’s other hyaluronic acid products according to some customers
Best naturally-derived formula: Typology Hydrating Serum
- Price: $20.70 or $39.60
- Size: 0.5 fl. oz or 1 fl. oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin b5, aquaxyl
- Customer rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars (from over 2,190 reviews)
Typology states this product is 94% naturally derived. It is suitable for vegans and is fragrance-free.
The company claims that aquaxyl can increase the natural production of hyaluronic acid in the skin, leading to plumper and more hydrated skin.
The company recommends using this serum before sealing in the moisture with a person’s usual moisturizer.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types
- glass bottle container is recyclable
- fragrance-free so it is also suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- smaller size containers in comparison to many competitors
- some customers state it left a grainy film on the face
Best sustainable: OSEA Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum
- Price: around $85
- Size: 1 fl. oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, seaweed, volcanic marine ferment, snow mushrooms
- Customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from over 200 reviews)
The OSEA Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum contains nontoxic Japanese Miru seaweed to help replenish and balance the skin’s natural moisture. The snow mushrooms seal moisture, and the volcanic marine ferment helps to plump and smooth fine lines.
The company claims the formula is fast-absorbing and fragrance-free and that it makes this product sustainably in California.
Pros
- suitable for most skin types
- has Leaping Bunny certification
- unscented
- the company claims it makes this product sustainably in America
Cons
- not suitable for sensitive skin
- some customer complaints include serum not penetrating the skin, feeling sticky, or not experiencing any skin changes
Best nonsticky formula: Vichy Mineral 89
- Price: around $23
- Size: 1.8 fl. oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, volcanic water
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from over 28,500 reviews)
This product is suitable for all skin types. The formula is fragrance-free, lightweight, fast-absorbing, and has a nonsticky gel texture.
Vichy’s volcanic water contains 15 essential minerals. The manufacturer says this ingredient makes skin more resistant to visible signs of aging by exposure to pollution, UV, and stress.
Pros
- unscented and nonsticky
- suitable for all skin types
Cons
- contains phenoxyethanol, which can cause skin irritation in some individuals
- doesn’t work as advertised for some reviewers
Best unscented: CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Price: around $23
- Size: 1 fl. oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin B5, niacinamide
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from over 24,490 reviews)
This serum from CeraVe contains three types of essential ceramide to restore the natural skin barrier. Vitamin B5 soothes the skin whilst niacinamide calms it, helping reduce the appearance of acne. The company says its MVE technology provides hydration over 24 hours.
The formula is free from fragrance and parabens. It is also noncomedogenic.
Pros
- unscented and noncomedogenic
- suitable for individuals with normal to dry skin
- more affordable than many products
Cons
- CeraVe is not a cruelty-free brand
- some Amazon reviews suggest the product purchased through this website were old or damaged
Best with ceramides: Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster
- Price: around $39
- Size: 0.5 fl oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin b5
- Customer rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars (from 483 reviews)
This serum contains ceramides to help replenish the skin and vitamin B5 to soften it, locking in moisture and making skin appear fuller, smoother, and more hydrated.
The ceramides help strengthen the skin barrier and work with the other ingredients to help reduce signs of aging.
Paual’s Choice recommends using this serum by itself or before moisturizer.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types
- no added fragrance or parabens
Cons
- more expensive than other products
- although the brand is cruelty-free, it does not specify if this product is suitable for vegans
- some reviewers say they did not experience any difference in their skin after using the product
Best budget serum: The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid
- Price: around $10
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides
- Customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 (from over 5,800 reviews)
This serum claims to plump, moisturize, and hydrate the skin. It also contains peptides to help support the skin’s natural collagen production, which may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This product is one of the least expensive serums on this list. With a high average customer rating and a more affordable price, The Inkey list may be a good option for those new to using hyaluronic acid serums.
Pros
- suitable for all skin types
- affordably priced
Cons
- some customer reviews say the product is not good for their sensitive skin
- some customers state the product runs out too quickly
Some individuals may prefer to use a mask rather than a moisturizer or serum.
This may be because a mask can provide more concentrated attention to the skin. It can trap moisture and hyaluronic acid in the skin, allowing the ingredients to absorb more easily.
Best for overnight use: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Overnight Mask
- Price: around $78
- Size: 1.69 fl. oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, tree bark extract
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 155 reviews)
Made to help hydrate and revitalize the skin overnight, this product contains niacinamide and tree bark extract as well as hyaluronic acids of different molecular weights.
The company claims that it is suitable for all skin types and that it is designed to prevent and repair the signs of aging skin. A person can use this cream overnight, and the natural ingredients included in the formula are there to calm and soothe the skin to encourage a restful night’s sleep.
Pros
- the company claims it is suitable for all skin types
- may help improve the appearance of wrinkles
Cons
- expensive in comparison to some competitors
- doesn’t last long for some reviewers
Best for under-eye skin: Skin Authority Under Eye Rescue Mask
- Price: $14
- Size: 2 mL
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, grape, and amino acids
- Customer rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (from 4 reviews)
This product uses hyaluronic, grape, and amino acids to target dark circles and fine wrinkles under the eyes.
The active ingredients are infused into a biodegradable contour mask that a person can place under their eyes for 15 minutes.
The company claims that this single-use mask firms, refreshes, and depuffs the delicate area below the eyes.
Pros
- more affordable price
- mask is biodegradable
- cruelty-free and reef safe
Cons
- only suitable for a single use
- very limited reviews on the Skin Authority website
Best hydrogel mask: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hydrogel Mask
- Price: around $28
- Size: 1 oz
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid
- Customer rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 611 reviews)
This hydrogel mask from Neutrogena contains just one active ingredient: hyaluronic acid.
Each pack contains 10 single-use masks. The masks are a unique hydrogel material that Neutrogena claims holds up to 50% more essence than paper face masks.
The company recommends keeping the mask on for 15–30 minutes for the hyaluronic acid to absorb into the skin.
Pros
- 50% more essence than a paper mask, according to Neutrogena
- many reviewers say they like the feel of this mask, and it does not cause skin reactions
Cons
- contains added fragrance
- may be difficult to keep the mask in place
Best with collagen: TonyMoly Master Lab Mask Sheet
- Price: around $40
- Size: 10 masks
- Main ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, ceramides, collagen
- Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 380 reviews)
These masks contain natural cellulose. The ingredients help brighten skin, provide hydration, and protect the skin’s natural barrier.
The face masks do not have a fragrance. TonyMoly suggests putting on a face mask, leaving it on for up to 30 minutes, and patting any excess moisture into the skin once a person takes it off.
Pros
- contains many active ingredients to improve skin benefits
- mostly positive customer reviews on Amazon
Cons
- fairly expensive in comparison to other sheet mask products
- some reviewers say they received expired mask sheets
In this section, we look at all of the above products side by side.
| Type | Price | Size | Main ingredients | Customer rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Ordinary Moisturizer | moisturizer | $6.50–$13.50 | 30 mL 100 mL | • hyaluronic acid • lactic acid • minerals | 4.2 out of 5 stars |
| Éminence | moisturizer | around $58 | 60 mL | • hyaluronic acid • acai berry juice • shea butter | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
| BeautyStat | moisturizer | around $70 | 1.7 oz | • hyaluronic acid • Bifidus • mushroom extract • ceramides | 4.4 out of 5 stars |
| Peach & Lily | moisturizer | $50 | 1.7 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • black soybean • Camelia leaf extract • oatmeal | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Neutrogena Gel | moisturizer | around $27 | 1.7 oz | • hyaluronic acid • glycerin | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Advanced Clinicals | moisturizer | around $20 | 16 oz | • hyaluronic acid • vitamin E • ceramides • aloe vera | 4.4 out of 5 stars |
| Dermalogica | moisturizer | around $47 | 1.7 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • lactic acid • aloe vera | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
| Peter Thomas Roth | moisturizer | around $54 | 1.7 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • pentavitin • hydrolyzed silk | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Dr. Brandt | moisturizer | around $72 | 1.7 oz | • hyaluronic acid • peptides | 4.4 out of 5 stars |
| Tatcha | serum | around $89 | 1 oz | • hyaluronic acid • squalene • lactic acid | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| SkinCeuticals | serum | $90 | 30 mL | • hyaluronic acid • vitamin B5 | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| La Roche-Posay | serum | around $49 | 1.01 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • vitamin B5 • glycerin | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| BioRepublic | serum | around $28 | 25 mL | • hyaluronic acid • moss | no reviews |
| The Ordinary Serum | serum | $8.80–$15.70 | 30 mL 60 mL | • hyaluronic acid • vitamin B5 • panthenol | 4 out of 5 stars |
| Typology | serum | $20.70–$39.60 | 0.5 fl oz 1 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • vitamin B5 • aquaxyl | 4.2 out of 5 stars |
| OSEA | serum | around $85 | 1 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • seaweed • volcanic marine • snow mushrooms | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
| Vichy | serum | around $23 | 1.8 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • volcanic water | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| CeraVe | serum | around $23 | 1 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • ceramides • vitamin B5 • niacinamide | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Paula’s Choice | serum | around $39 | 0.5 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • ceramides • vitamin B5 | 4.3 out of 5 stars |
| The Inkey List | serum | around $10 | 1 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • peptides | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
| PCA Skin | mask | around $78 | 1.69 fl oz | • hyaluronic acid • niacinamide • tree bark extract | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Skin Authority | mask | around $14 | 2 mL | • hyaluronic acid • grape • amino acids | 4.8 out of 5 stars |
| Neutrogena Mask | mask | around $28 | 10 masks | hyaluronic acid | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
| TonyMoly | mask | around $38 | 10 masks | • hyaluronic acid • vitamin C • ceramides • collagen | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Price: Products are available for a wide range of budgets.
- Ingredients: Products list all ingredients clearly.
- Skin concerns: Products target a specific skin concern, such as dryness, oiliness, or aging.
- Safety: Products contain ingredients that are safe for topical use.
- Reputable: Products are from businesses that adhere to industry best practices.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
A person can look for the following characteristics to help them find a hyaluronic moisturizer that meets their needs:
- Amount of hyaluronic acid: A person can check the percentage of hyaluronic acid the product contains.
- Molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid: A person may wish to consider moisturizers that have the right molecular weight for their intended use, such as a smaller weight for moisturizers that are designed to affect the deeper layers of the skin and a larger molecular weight for moisturizers that target the epidermis. This is according to an older study.
- Ingredients: A person can also look for products made with active ingredients that deliver benefits that have been backed up by research.
Hyaluronic acid has many benefits, including:
- improving skin hydration
- stimulating the production of collagen and elastin
- lubricating the joints
reducing wrinkles - improving skin texture
- making the skin more supple
While hyaluronic acid is generally safe, some people may experience irritation and inflammation when using products. There is also a risk of the chemical suppressing immune function.
Below, we answer some frequently asked questions about hyaluronic acid moisturizers.
Is hyaluronic acid better than retinol?
There is limited research to suggest which of these two ingredients is best.
However, hyaluronic acid can help hydrate the skin, whereas retinol may be most beneficial for its pro-aging properties.
Can you use hyaluronic acid every day?
Many companies recommend using hyaluronic products in the morning and at night. However, if a person experiences a skin reaction, they should discontinue use immediately.
What happens if you use too much hyaluronic acid?
Using too much hyaluronic acid can dry out the skin. People should stop using any products if they notice their skin condition worsens after application.
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that the body makes naturally and it plays a role in many bodily functions, including hydrating the skin and lubricating the joints.
Hyaluronic acid can also play a part in a person’s daily skin care routine when it is present in products such as hyaluronic acid moisturizers.
This type of moisturizer may help a person keep their skin moisturized, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and make their skin appear firmer.
Some companies advise users to test their products on a small area of skin before using them on their face to ensure that they do not experience an allergic reaction.