Let’s be honest—hydrated skin is happy skin. And when it comes to keeping skin plump and moisturized, hyaluronic acid is the true MVP.
I first started using it after my skin felt super dry during a cold winter in Michigan. My friend Emily told me, “Girl, try hyaluronic acid serum—it changed my skin.” So I gave it a shot, and wow—what a difference.
In this post, I’ll share some hyaluronic acid serums that actually work, especially for real women living in the U.S. who want smoother, more hydrated, and dewy-looking skin.
What is Hyaluronic Acid & Why is Everyone Obsessed With It?
Hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet. It can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, making it ideal for keeping the skin hydrated without clogging pores.
What I love the most is that it works for almost all skin types—even my combo skin that flips between oily and flaky. Plus, it helps smooth out fine lines temporarily by plumping the skin.
How to Use Hyaluronic Acid Serum Correctly
Pro tip: If you use it wrong, your skin can feel drier than before!
Here’s how to use it the right way:
- Apply to slightly damp skin (not dry!)
- Follow up immediately with a moisturizer to lock it in
- Use it both morning and night
- Don’t apply it solo on dry skin—it can pull moisture from deeper layers and make your skin feel tight
Top Hyaluronic Acid Serums That Actually Work (Tried & Tested)
1. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
This was my first HA serum. It’s:
- Affordable
- Easy to find at Ulta and online
- Has a slightly thick texture but absorbs nicely
After 10 days of using it under makeup and at night, my dry patches were completely gone. Zero pilling!
2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum
Emily swears by this one! She uses it religiously during the summer.
- Light gel texture
- Works beautifully under sunscreen
- Keeps skin dewy, even after 8 hours in a cold AC office
3. L’Oréal Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
I used this for a skincare challenge I did for my blog.
- After one week, my skin felt plumper and smoother
- Drugstore price, but it feels like a high-end product
- Pairs well with retinol and other actives
4. Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
This one is dermatologist-approved and loved by my sister, who has super sensitive skin.
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Ultra-gentle for daily use
- Makes skin look visibly healthier and fresh
5. COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Power Essence
If you’re into K-beauty, this one is a must-try.
- Lightweight and absorbs quickly
- More like an essence than a thick serum
- I used this all winter and never experienced flaky skin
My Real Routine: How I Use Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Here’s my step-by-step routine:
- Cleanse face with gentle, non-stripping cleanser
- Pat face lightly—leave it slightly damp
- Apply 2–3 drops of HA serum, press into skin
- Follow with a ceramide-rich moisturizer
- In the morning, I always use SPF 50 sunscreen
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use hyaluronic acid every day?
Yes! You can use it twice daily—AM and PM.
❓ Can I use it with retinol or Vitamin C?
Definitely. Use hyaluronic acid first on damp skin, then layer retinol or Vitamin C after.
❓ Why does my skin feel dry after using it?
You may be applying it on dry skin and skipping the moisturizer step. Always apply HA on damp skin and seal it in with a moisturizer.
Final Thoughts
Hyaluronic acid is simple but super effective. Whether you’re 22 or 52, hydration is key to healthy, glowing skin. I’ve tried and tested all these serums myself (or through my friends), and I can honestly say—they work! If you’re just starting out, pick one from this list and watch your skin transform over the next few weeks.