- Pros: Has an easy-to-use twist-up pump, so it’s less messy than a dropper
- Cons: Some reviewers say it has a sticky consistency
7. La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
You know those green face creams that almost instantly make redness go away? This serum doesn’t color-correct, but it does offer the same anti-inflammatory ingredient (centella asiatica) to soothe your skin, in addition to HA and vitamin B5 for a dose of moisture. “It’s easy to layer and almost instantly gives the skin a glow,” Mona Gohara, MD, board-certified dermatologist, skin of color expert, and associate professor at Yale School of Medicine, tells SELF.
- Pros: Oil-free | Noncomedogenic | Also contains glycerin
- Cons: Strong added fragrance | Some reviewers say it has a sticky consistency
8. Natrium Hyaluronic Acid Essence 2%
One SELF editor views this as her emotional support serum: “This is the first hyaluronic acid I ever bought, and it definitely holds a special place in my heart. It’s lightweight and refreshing (great for anyone who hates sticky or greasy oils), and it’s the first thing I apply to my face morning and night.” You also get a lot of product in the bottle for a drugstore-friendly price, so it’s a great choice if you’re on a budget.
- Pros: Contains 5.7 ounces compared to standard 1 ounce | Under $20 | Fragrance-free
- Cons: Some reviewers call out the water-like consistency, which is standard for essences but may not be substantial enough if you want a thicker serum
9. Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum
This is an especially great option to use during the day because it packs antioxidants from plums that’ll help protect your skin from sun damage and pollution (in addition to your sunscreen, of course!). Plus, reviewers say it acts as a great base under makeup because it adds a healthy-looking sheen and a bit of tackiness that grips onto products you’ll want more wear-time out of, like concealer, foundation, and blush.
- Pros: Absorbs quickly | Contains glycerin
- Cons: Some reviewers note the added fragrance can be irritating
10. Kiehl’s Ultra Pure High-Potency 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum
If your skin could really use some TLC, this 2023 Healthy Beauty Award winner is worth a try, according to one of our testers: “Because of my dry, sensitive skin, locking in moisture is important, and this product definitely helped. I was worried I would experience some tingling since I have eczema on my face, but it didn’t have any negative effects.”
- Pros: Fragrance-free | Very simple ingredients list
- Cons: Some reviewers report breaking out after using this
11. Torriden DIVE-IN Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Before you dive into a 10-step K-beauty routine, start with this one tried-and-true product. “As someone who loves Korean skin care, I bought this after seeing all the TikTok hype,” says one SELF editor. “My skin always feels dewy and plumped after using it morning and night, and the tiniest drop goes a long way for my entire face.”
- Pros: Fragrance-free | Spreads easily, so you don’t need a lot of product
- Cons: Some reviewers say it has a sticky finish
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