Hyaluronic acid is an undeniable superstar among skin-care ingredients. This molecule is one of the most well-known in the industry for good reason: it boasts incredible hydrating and plumping powers. When skin is impeccably nourished results can range from diminished fine lines and wrinkles and smoother skin to reduced redness and a glass-like complexion.
In honor of National Hyaluronic Acid Day—you can officially celebrate on January 21—NewBeauty editors share their favorite hyaluronic products that really work.
The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($10)
“I’m a fan of pretty much everything The Inkey List does, but their Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a hero product in my opinion. It’s perfectly hydrating and nourishing without being sticky as some HA serums can be. Plus, it’s $10—what more could you want?”
—Isabelle Buneo, editorial assistant
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 ($40)
“I’m all about an efficacious drugstore find, and this one fits the bill. It combines hyaluronic acid, glycerin and a nourishing ingredient called madecassoside from the centella asiatica plant. Plus, it features the brand’s signature soothing thermal water. My skin feels softer and more hydrated when I use it consistently.”
—Brittany Burhop Fallon, director of beauty
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Liquid Gel Cloud Serum ($68)
“My skin is super dry and it can get flaky in the winter months. I love the way this serum feels on my skin. It’s never sticky and I can instantly feel the hydration boost. It’s super easy to layer and doesn’t pill. 10 out of 10.”
—Tatiana Bido, aesthetic content manager
Aqualia Thermal 48HR Rehydrating Fragrance-Free Face Moisturizer ($35)
“I love the long-lasting, nourishing feeling of this cream for dry winter skin especially. The combination of hyaluronic acid and glycerin is a perfect match for keeping my skin moisturized all day long, and I love that it’s fragrance-free for very sensitive skin.”
—Rowan Lyman, staff writer
SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel ($90)
“I splurged on this after I heard it was the ideal serum to use after vitamin C, and it is worth every penny. My skin is supple, comfortable and illuminated after every use. I also love that it’s fragrance-free with zero stickiness.”
—Leiana Foye, senior digital content producer
PCA SKIN Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum ($125)
“I think I’m on my fourth or fifth bottle of this serum. When it comes to a smooth application (I’m talking zero stickiness and wearing like a dream under makeup) and results you can visualize, nothing compares. I notice a huge difference in the quality of my skin when I stop using this.”
—Danielle Dooley, associate director, digital content