Just like the rest of your body, water is essential for healthy skin, and the best hydrating serums replenish your much-needed supply (which fluctuates daily due to a laundry list of factors, such as climate and over-exfoliation). And while you might think that hydration might seem like a no-brainer—and not that hard to come by—that’s not actually the case, in part because the terms “hydrating” and “moisturizing” are thrown around synonymously when they actually mean two entirely different processes and therefore provide different benefits for the skin.
Here’s the 101: Conditioning ingredients classified as emollients or occlusives can’t actually draw water from the environment into your skin—which is the definition of hydrating, by the way—like a humectant can. (Instead, they help replenish and protect the skin barrier.) Meanwhile, humectants like hyaluronic acid penetrate deeper and bind water to the skin for a more significant result. All three groups are important for overall smoother skin (emollients and occlusives seal in all that moisture, after all!), but hydrating formulas like the ones below reign supreme in our dryness-reducing skin-care routines. Check out our favorites below.
Our Top Hydrating Serums
- Best Overall: SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan, $120
- Best Firming: Peach & Lily MiniProtein Exosome Bioactive Ampoule, $53
- Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops, $13
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual-Retinol Alternative Serum, $68
- Best for Barrier Repair: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum, $54
- Best for Fine Lines: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $40
- Best for Dull Skin: Vichy LiftActiv H.A. Wrinkle Corrector, $45
- Best for Oily Skin: Osea Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum, $88
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum, $42
- Best Moisture-Sealing: Aestura Ato Barrier 365 Hydro Cera-Ha Serum, $34
Best Overall: SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan
Why it’s worth it: It’s rare when all of our editors agree on a serum, considering that all of us have individual needs from our skin-care routines, but the 2024 Best of Beauty Award-winning SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan’s instant plumping effect has us all hooked. As its name suggests, hyaluronic acid plays a significant role in its hydrating effects, but other skin-plumping ingredients at work include licorice root and purple rice extracts, two antioxidant-rich ingredients that hydrate while brightening skin and evening tone. Another star ingredient is pro-xylane, the brand’s proprietary humectant derived from beech wood, which leaves skin with a smooth-as-silk feel and a dewy glow. This ingredient also increases your skin’s levels of glycan (the complex sugars naturally present in your skin), elevating its natural smoothness to a heavenly level. On top of its grade-A ingredients list, we also love this formula’s denser, cushiony feel and non-sticky texture.
“Hyaluronic acid serums are a must in my routine for my extra-dry skin with rosacea, but many of the formulas I’ve tried are too runny or feel like they disappear seconds after application. This is by far the easiest and most comforting serum I’ve used. It is thick for a serum (no drippy mess here), glides along my face with ease, and leaves it soft and soothed.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, licorice root extract, purple rice extract, pro-xylane
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Firming: Peach & Lily MiniProtein Exosome Bioactive Ampoule
Peach & Lily
MiniProtein Exosome Bioactive Ampoule
Why it’s worth it: If you’ve seen “exosomes” all over your feed lately, K-beauty is a big contributor to the trend. It all started with exosome therapy, which is an in-office treatment where topicals infused with these microscopic messengers are applied after microneedling or laser resurfacing. As New York City-based dermatologist Ellen Marmur, MD, previously explained, “You can think of [exosomes] as microscopic delivery trucks…that facilitate communication and coordination between cells.”
While exosomes hold tons of potential for skin regeneration and repair, it’s still an emerging field—so think of this category as exciting science in progress rather than a guaranteed miracle fix. The Peach & Lily MiniProtein Exosome Bioactive Ampoule makes that science feel approachable, harnessing over 10 million Centella asiatica–derived plant exosomes (a source we already know and love for its soothing properties). It’s also boosted with plant growth factors that help supercharge your skin’s repair process, tackling things like fine lines, dullness, and loss of bounce—all while classic humectant glycerin locks in hydration for that coveted glass-skin finish.
“This ampoule (which is like a serum, but more concentrated) isn’t advertised as being hydrating, but I find it does the trick for my super dry skin. I notice more glow and fewer fine lines every time I use it, likely from all the skin-plumping ingredients it contains. Plus, it has a really rich texture, so applying it feels quite luxurious.” —Kara McGrath, content director
- Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, vegan growth factors, glycerin, hydrolyzed rice protein, soybean protein
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drop
e.l.f. skin
Skin Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops
Why it’s worth it: Proof that dewy, healthy skin doesn’t have to cost a fortune, e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops is a 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner that provides major moisture on a budget. The silky, lightweight formula sinks in fast, thanks to hyaluronic acid that drenches skin in hydration, while a hibiscus complex rich in antioxidants helps support collagen and boost your skin’s natural glow. It also contains 5% niacinamide to smooth texture, achieve an even tone, and refine pores—leaving the skin soft, bouncy, and fresh all day. Mix a drop into your foundation or wear it solo for a luminous finish.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
“Whenever I don’t get enough sleep (or even when I do, honestly), a brightening serum is a must in my morning routine. Thirst Burst Drops offers the best of both worlds, packing in both hydrating and brightening ingredients that perk up my skin straight away. The gel texture melts right into my skin and provides a bit of tackiness (not stickiness) that really grips onto my sunscreen and makeup. Glowy, radiant base? Check, check.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, hibiscus complex, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual-Retinol Alternative Serum
Why it’s worth it: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual-Retinol Alternative Serum has all the smoothing, firming, and brightening benefits of retinol, but without the dryness or irritation that often comes with it. Powered by bakuchiol and prince ginseng, two gentle plant-based retinol alternatives, it helps improve skin’s tone and texture over time. Betaine and glycerin provide ample hydration to keep the skin plump and balanced, while mastic tree resin from the Greek island of Chios (one of the only places in the world where this rare resin is produced) helps refine texture and visibly minimize pores. The silky, lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft and perfectly prepped for the rest of your routine.
“This serum is such an easy addition to any skin-care routine. It layers seamlessly with everything and never causes irritation. Because it skips traditional retinol, the results for fine lines are a bit more subtle, but the plumping and hydration are absolutely legit.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
- Key ingredients: bakuchiol, mastic tree resin, prince ginseng
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Barrier Repair: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum
Dr. Jart+
Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum
Why it’s worth it: When it comes to sensitive skin, Dr. Jart+ is the master of knowing what it needs (and what it doesn’t). Whether you went a little too hard with exfoliating acids, soaked up too much sun, or your skin is just in one of its moods, the Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum is a pro at calming things down. Infused with Centella asiatica and allantoin, it quickly eases irritation and redness, while glycerin and betaine replenish hydration levels to bring it back to its happy place. Also, a barrier-strengthening peptide helps prevent future flare-ups, so your skin stays calm, soft, and balanced.
“Because I have rosacea on my cheeks, it’s simply not enough for my serums to hydrate and hydrate only—my delicate cherub face requires soothing and repairative properties, too. Whether I’m having a particularly bad flare-up or am just trying to ward off seasonal dryness, I pretty much always turn to Dr. Jart’s Cicapair serum because of the magic ingredient it’s named for: Cica, otherwise known as tiger grass. It’s been used as a wound-healing salve for centuries in Ancient Chinese Medicine, and it’s clear to see why because every time I use this serum, my redness calms down, my dry spots disappear, and my entire face feels just a little more plump. In my eyes, it’s not just a quick fix to bring life back to dry skin via hydration; it’s more like a long-term strategy for making sure my skin never gets dry to begin with.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor
- Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, niacinamide, allantoin, glycerin, betaine, palmitoyl tripeptide-8
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Fine Lines: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
La Roche-Posay
Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Why it’s worth it: Nearly every derm we talked to mentioned La Roche-Posay’s Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and our editors are in the same fan club, too. Two types of pure hyaluronic acid alongside hydrating antioxidant vitamin B5 star in this watery, fast-drying serum for some serious skin-plumping results (mature skin types, take note). Though its formula is ultra-light, breathable, and anything but greasy, it nevertheless provides hydration just like weightier options. “Its lightweight formula is also suitable for sensitive skin,” says Kathleen Cook Suozzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine.
“There are few skin issues in my life that a good hyaluronic acid serum can’t fix. Dry patches? Hyaluronic acid. Dull skin? Hyaluronic acid. Clogged pores? You wouldn’t think it, but hyaluronic acid genuinely helps balance my skin so it’s not producing the excess oil that pisses my pores off. La Roche-Posay’s Hyalu is the platonic ideal of an HA serum to me: medium viscosity, non-sticky, and vaguely aquatic smelling. My skin is always better off when I make the time to stack it in ahead of moisturizer.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica, vitamin B5
- Fragrance-free: yes
More hydrating serums we love:
Best For Dull Skin: Vichy LiftActiv H.A. Wrinkle Corrector
Vichy Laboratories
LiftActiv H.A. Wrinkle Corrector
Why it’s worth it: Less is definitely more when it comes to Vichy LiftActiv H.A. Wrinkle Corrector. With just 13 ingredients, this minimalist serum delivers maximum results thanks to 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid, Vichy’s mineral-rich volcanic water, and vitamin C, which work together to brighten and protect the skin from environmental stressors. “Although the texture is incredibly light and does not leave a sticky residue, it provides an immediate smoothing and plumping effect, noticeably softening and filling fine lines,” says Aegean H. Chan, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Barbara, CA. She adds that the addition of vitamin C makes it “an effective multitasking product that layers beautifully under moisturizer and sunscreen.”
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, volcanic water
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: Osea Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum
Osea
Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum
Why it’s worth it: Hyaluronic acid and betaine make another appearance on this list, but this time, the pairing gets a boost from the sea. OSEA Hyaluronic Acid Sea Serum delivers a double dose of hydration with two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, plus sustainably harvested Japanese seaweed and snow mushroom (a natural source of hyaluronic acid) to help lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated at every level. “It’s fragrance-free and feels incredibly smooth and silky on the skin—making it an easy, everyday hyaluronic acid serum,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. Thanks to its lightweight, non-greasy texture, it’s also a perfect match for oily and combination skin, offering deep hydration without clogging pores or adding a greasy finish.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, betaine, seaweed, snow mushroom
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum
Avène
Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum
Why it’s worth it: Sensitive skin types might love the cooling, jelly-like texture of the Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum. Just one dropper is all you need for its intensely hydrating mix of hyaluronic acid, glycerin (another humectant), and niacinamide, which also provides anti-inflammatory properties and diminishes the look of hyperpigmentation. Plus, it’s a joy to use: “The formulation is very simple, works well for those even with sensitive skin, and doesn’t leave a sticky residue behind,” says Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Moisture-Sealing: Aestura Ato Barrier 365 Hydro Cera-HA Serum
Aestura
Ato Barrier 365 Hydro Cera-HA Serum
Why it’s worth it: Humectants and emollients are both wonderful, but mixing them together in a formula like Aestura’s Ato Barrier 365 Hydro Cera-HA Serum makes for an ultra-hydrating serum. As hyaluronic acid does all the heavy lifting in the hydration department, ceramides ensure all the water that their humectant partner draws in stays put. “This combination of hyaluronic acid and ceramides strengthens a stressed skin barrier for sensitive skin types,” adds Jane Yoo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
How are hydrating and moisturizing ingredients different?
The main difference between hydrating ingredients, known as humectants, and moisturizing ingredients, which fall under the groups of emollients or occlusives, is that humectants actually pull water from the environment onto the surface layer of the skin, whereas moisturizers prevent water loss. “Humectants attract water molecules, whereas emollients soften the skin by filling in the space between skin cells with the moisturizing ingredient,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama. According to Dr. Castilla, occlusives primarily reinforce broken patches of the skin barrier, locking in moisture to maintain hydration.
Which ingredients are actually hydrating?
All those oils marketed as “hydrating?” Um, totally untrue, as oils are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. Instead, look for ingredients labeled as humectants, like hyaluronic acid. This humectant has become the crown jewel of hydrating ingredients simply because it performs well. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Doris Day, MD, says this particular ingredient is “great at holding water and giving skin resilience and firmness” and is actually produced in our bodies naturally to keep our skin plump and hydrated. Here’s the thing: Our body’s natural supply of hyaluronic acid breaks down as we age, so supplementing this reduction with a topical is a smart move to keep dryness and fine lines at bay.