Whether you're 25 or 75, hyaluronic acid is a non-negotiable in any skin-care routine. Aside from its ability to act as a sponge beneath the surface of the skin and "plump out" lines and wrinkles—our bodies produce less of the molecule over time, leading to dry, sagging skin—it also acts as a great hydrator for all skin types and ages. Below, dermatologists name the most effective hyaluronic acid serums worth adding to your routine.
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Monroe, LA dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD warns that many hyaluronic acid skin-care products are not able to actively penetrate the skin and may just "sit" on the surface. Revision Skincare gets the expert's stamp of approval.
"Skinbetter Science and Revision Skincare are premier skin-care lines with HA as an ingredient that absorbs into the skin for deeper hydration," says Dr. Hopkins. One to try: Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum ($86), which is safe for all skin types.
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Campbell, CA dermatologist Amelia K. Hausauer, MD says she likes using HA products that combine multiple length chains of the ingredient "to better improve moisture retention and smooth the appearance of fine lines."
Her pick: Skinbetter Science InterFuse Intensive Treatment LINES ($135). "It includes injectable-grade HA in four different sizes along with peptides and other hydrating ingredients. This product is intended to be used over deeper lines but I have some patients who prefer it as a full face plumper."
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New York dermatologist Marina Peredo, MD also recommends looking for HA serums with different molecular weights. "SkinMedica HA5 Hydrator ($178) has five different types of HA molecules. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and peptides to moisturize the skin, decrease pore size and brighten and tighten the skin."
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"La Roche-Posay has several innovative hyaluronic acid products with a great price point," says Dr. Hopkins. Our personal favorite: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($30), a lightweight, effective formula you can find at the drugstore.
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West Palm Beach, FL dermatologist Kenneth Beer, MD counts his own serum, ScientificRx Age Spot Corrector ($69), as his top pick "because we picked great ingredients—including niacinamide—to blend with the hyaluronic acid and provide a product that is great at freshening up the skin and delivering radiant appearance."
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"Many medical grade skin care products like my own Hopkins Dermatology RX: Hydrate ($90) have pure hyaluronic acid to treat the skin to reduce fine lines and hydrate the skin," says Dr. Hopkins.
