If you don’t already use one of the Vogue-approved best hydrating serums in your skincare routine, now is the time to invest in one. Not only are serums the best way of getting targeted ingredients into the skin, but they are also something that virtually every skin type can benefit from, including oily skin. “High-quality hydrating serums provide a long-lasting, deep moisturisation of the skin, resulting in a complexion that’s softer, plumper and more radiant overall,” agrees Professor Dr Michael Detmar, MD at IRÄYE.
Vogue’s pick of the best hydrating serums at a glance:
Featured in this article
In addition to plumping, smoothing and soothing skin, hydrating serums also offer the added benefit of supercharging other products in your skincare routine, making them even more effective. “Another important and lesser-known action of hydrating serums is that they enhance the delivery of other active ingredients deep into the skin,” adds aesthetic facialist and clinic founder Kate Kerr. She likens their moisturising benefits to “filling the canals before the gondolas can sail on through, carrying the all-important active ingredients into the desired layers of skin.”
Another excellent reason to invest in a hydrating serum? They’re a suits-all addition to your skincare regime as everyone, regardless of whether you have dry, oily or acne-prone skin, can benefit from more hydration in their skin. To help you find the right one for you, we’ve put together a Vogue-approved edit.
Vogue’s top hydrating serums
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: One of the best hyaluronic acid serums for a reason. “It’s lightweight and plays well with all the other products in my routine,” says contributing beauty editor Lauren Murdoch-Smith. “It’s the kind of formula that my skin drinks up, so it alleviates dryness, but it’s also not sticky. It works wonders at plumping and smoothing the face, neck and hands over time too. I’m obsessed.” Combining smaller HA molecules with heavier ones, it works on multiple layers of the skin for ultra-effective hydration. Free from oil, fragrance and any irritating actives, Medik8’s hydrating serum is a great choice for all skin types. Those with very dry skin will benefit from the multi-weight hyaluronic acid formula enhanced here by vitamin B5, which soothes as HA draws moisture both deep into the dermis and onto the surface of the skin.
- has a non-sticky formula that absorbs quickly
- dropper is marked with measurements for consistent application
- small bottle, but a little goes a long way
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Brimming with ceramides, humectants and emollients, this serum works to replenish moisture and lock it in. Its milky formula includes lactic acid to gently exfoliate dry skin, helping clear rough texture so the skincare you follow it with can actually get to work.
- refines skin texture as well as deeply hydrating
- great value for money
- bottle is refillable
- pipette applicator does not pick up a lot of product
Why it’s Vogue-approved: With a refreshing gel texture that is quick to absorb, La Mer’s essence is a sound investment for plump, hydrated skin. Not only does it include several ingredients our experts recommend for hydration (glycerin, glycosaminoglycans and peptides, to name a few), but it also contains Miracle Broth – a precious ferment that is harvested twice yearly and exclusive to La Mer formulas. This proprietary blend of sea kelp, magnesium, vitamin C and other minerals works by energising cells in the dermis, boosting repair and in turn minimising signs of ageing. Patted onto clean skin, it soothes irritation and aids the absorption of all other skincare that follows.
- gentle on skin with best in class ingredients that stimulate cell renewal
- it is pricey, but a good investment for nourished skin
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Formulated to deliver hydration to skin and help encourage skin’s own natural hydration synthesis, this formula combines hyaluronic acid with liquorice root, purple rice and ProXylane. The multi-action treatment helps combat dryness and reinstates suppleness and firmness to the skin. Recently reformulated to improve the texture, this feels silky and refreshing on skin and makes a great canvas for make-up.
- clinically tested formula
- lightweight, non-tacky texture
- expensive
Why it's Vogue-approved: “I have been seriously impressed with the cumulative results of this serum. Having seen the results of the clinical trials at the launch (collagen preservation, firmer cheeks and jawline, a more hydrated, plumper-looking complexion), I committed to using this morning and night to see if it would work for me and a month later, I would say I concur with all the aforementioned. If you’re after a hydrating serum to upgrade your skincare routine, you’re looking at it.” – Jessica Diner, global beauty and wellness director
- contains a host of skincare heroes including peptides, antioxidants and arginine
- protects against collagen degradation for a youthfully plump appearance over time
- is rich in nourishing oils, so may not suit oily skin types
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This silky, ultra-fine serum features a light and refreshing herbal-citrus scent that leaves you feeling clean and refreshed after use. The product instantly promotes a radiant glow and helps minimise the appearance of dark spots and fine lines over time. This product is cruelty-free and 100% vegan.
- brightening
- reduces dark spots and fine lines
- refreshing scent
- Some may prefer a thicker texture
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Your skin will feel the effects of this active-packed serum instantly as well as over time, thanks to its powerhouse blend of revitalising ingredients. A combination of pro vitamin B5, trehalose, xylitol and squalane help reinstate hydration and strengthen the skin barrier to prevent moisture escaping, while clever micro-infusion technology helps the ingredients get deeper in the skin. To help boost blood flow and improve vitality, antioxidant-rich artichoke polyphenols are included.
- can be used AM + PM
- serum-cream hybrid texture
- those who like richer textures may find it too lightweight
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Like other French dermo-cosmetic brands, Vichy’s product range is science-backed, so you can expect effective results. Vichy’s Minéral 89 is British Skin Foundation-approved and is made up of just 11 ingredients, including natural origin hyaluronic acid and volcanic water. “This Vichy serum is lightweight, sinks in quickly and works really well under make-up, plus I always feel like my skin gets a good drink whenever I use it,” says Vogue contributor Hannah Coates. “It’s a must-try”. Alongside a massive 89 per cent dose of the brand’s celebrated mineral water, which is abundant in 15 essential minerals, this formula contains a generous dose of hyaluronic acid, which helps boost hydration for up to 24 hours and leave skin feeling soft, supple and soothed.
- good for all skin types
- layers well
- some report it feels a bit tacky
Best Korean hydrating serum
- Why we love it: While Laneige’s legendary sleeping masks tend to get all of the acclaim, we’re fans of this sleeper-hit serum, which delivers a serious dose of hydration with humectants beta-glucan and hyaluronic acid, plus nourishment from emollient squalane. Though it has a fairly rich texture, it’s not remotely greasy or heavy, so it’s suitable for all skin types. We’d also be remiss if we didn’t mention the futuristic packaging — the top twists to reveal the pump, keeping the dispenser hygienic and streamlined.
- Key ingredients: Squalane, hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan
- Best hyaluronic acid for skin bounce
- Why it’s Vogue approved: South Korean skincare brand Innisfree knows how to make skin feel fresh-out-the-spa, even if you’re at home. This serum pairs multiweight hyaluronic acid with niacinamide and camellia, a tea leaf extract known to stimulate collagen production. Expect to enjoy skin that feels and looks smooth, soothed and bouncy. It has a refreshing scent that comes courtesy of limonene essential oil, which is worth noting if you’re fragrance averse.
- glowy finish
- lightweight
- no fragrance
- a little goes a long way
- silky texture
- may tingle on application
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: You’ll have seen COSRX’s power essence all over your social media feeds – it’s a hit with fans for making skin plump, glassy and smooth. Formulated with Snail Secretion filtrate, it hydrates and strengthens the moisture barrier, improving suppleness and texture over time.
- is fast-absorbing
- stimulates collagen and elastin
- accelerates healing of damaged skin
- some may not like the slimy texture
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Popular for immediately giving skin a dewy glow, this serum easily competes with your best highlighter. It combines watermelon extract (rich in vitamins A, C and lycopene) with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and moringa oil, for hydrated and brightened skin with each use. We love it for its ultra-thin consistency, which has been formulated for use under or over make-up. Beauty editor tip: mix a few drops into your foundation for a natural, luminous finish.
- plumps skin and minimises pores
- is non-comedogenic
- targets pigmentation and fine lines over time
- has a smooth formula which does not pill
- has a light fragrance
Best hydrating serum for sensitive skin
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Perfect for when you’ve gone overboard with your exfoliants, E45’s serum is free from fragrance, resurfacing actives and any irritants. It’s formulated with microalgae to prevent dehydration, plus a healthy dose of hyaluronic acid to draw water into the skin. Rich without being sticky, apply it over a wet face and your skin is quickly plumped up with moisture that lasts.
- affordable
- suitable for sensitive skin
- repairs the skin barrier
- not for those who like their skincare scented
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: A cream-serum hybrid packed with ceramides to support a healthy skin barrier, this one is best for those who like serums with a bit of substance. It cushions the skin and seals in hydration to prevent transepidermal water loss, and has enough body to be worn comfortably without moisturiser on top.
- relatively affordable
- hydrates and seals in moisture so is great for both dehydrated and dry skin
- some users have noticed pilling when layering this product
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Suffering from dry eyes? Look to L’Oréal’s serum for a moisture boost. It is made with multiweight hyaluronic acid to penetrate various layers of the skin, with a plumping and smoothing effect that minimises fine lines. Niacinamide is in the mix to help reduce dark circles, and we love the cooling applicator for a refreshing de-puff.
- gentle enough for use on the eye contour
- relieves puffy eyes
- beaded massage applicator helps to smooth fine lines
- can get tacky, but on the flip side this is great for gripping any under-eye concealer you apply to prevent creasing
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This well-rounded hydrating serum uses two forms of hyaluronic acid to increase hydration in the skin and deliver a plumper, more elastic skin finish. Vitamin B5, meanwhile, helps protect skin against external aggressors and oxidative stress, which can suck the moisture out and leave your complexion looking dry and dull.
- great for sensitive skin
- sits well under SPF
- some users reported finding the texture a little sticky
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: It often feels like dry, dehydrated skin needs all the help it can get to restore softness and suppleness, which is where this excellent, and affordable, HA serum steps in. Featuring a trio of humectants, it aims to hydrate skin up to two layers deep so that you can really feel its effects. Three per cent bio-fermented hyaluronic acid is the star of this serum, which works alongside glycerine and aloe vera to plump and hydrate up to 10 layers of the skin, delivering immediate and long-lasting hydration.
- affordable
- vegan formula
- good for sensitive skin
- the pipette doesn’t deliver much product
More top hydrating serums
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: If lax skin is a concern for you, look to this serum from Iräye. It meets all of Dr Detmar’s criteria for an active hydrating serum, containing emollients, antioxidant vitamins C and E and a bioretinol to promote skin regeneration and firmness. Plus, it features Iräye’s proprietary Lymphactive™ technology, which boosts lymphatic drainage of toxins to improve the condition of the skin.
- contains a triple-weight hyaluronic complex for deep hydration
- boosts microcirculation
- pricey
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: Addressing dullness, discolouration, pore size, skin laxity, acne, and fine lines in one fell swoop, Estee Lauder’s serum is an investment, but one that covers all bases. Alongside skincare heroes like St Paul’s Wort (which renews skin by activating collagen and elastin production), there are precious ingredients including pearl powder and gold for enhanced radiance and anti-inflammatory support. The star of the show is no doubt Black Diamond Truffle Extract, which is painstakingly harvested at peak freshness to produce the most potent serum. An ingredient which boosts ATP production, it gives your cells the energy to repair all kinds of damage for revitalised skin.
- Key ingredients: Black diamond truffle extract
- Contains top quality ingredients to enhance all benefits mentioned
- pricey
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: A hydrating spritz you can use anytime and anywhere, S’Able Labs Black Seed spray is not a toner in the traditional sense. It saturates skin in a mist of vitamin C, E and ferulic acid without the need for any cotton rounds, and has an impressive effect on redness, acne, and dullness after just one use. The best part is that it adds instant radiance without appearing oily, and targets hyperpigmentation for even and glowing skin over time.
- is full of antioxidants that protect skin
- helps to shrink pimples
- contains glycerin to trap moisture
- fades dark spots
- some may not like the ferulic acid scent
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: This silky serum uses low-molecular hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan to attract and trap moisture into skin while probiotics protect skin’s natural barrier and prevent moisture loss. Rose water helps deliver softness and gently calms any inflammation to leave skin perfectly balanced and hydrated.
- gorgeously scented
- effects are immediate and long-lasting
- 30ml doesn’t go far
- Why it’s Vogue-approved: A host of bioactive ingredients, including the brand’s bioactive platinum matrix and bioactive encapsulated oxygen, help make this serum a must. For anyone with skin that’s lacking in hydration and vitality. As well as boosting collagen and elastin production for improved suppleness, moss cultures and hyaluronic acid increase hydration, strengthen skin’s resilience and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
- sophisticated bioactive formula for maximum absorption
- carefully crafted texture
- expensive
FAQs
Is hydrating serum worth it?
You might be inclined to skip over serums as an optional skincare step, but in doing so, you would be missing a trick. According to Dr Detmar, hydrating serums are an essential prelude to moisturiser for all skin types, because they are made with water-binding ingredients that boost moisture retention in the skin.
As for Kerr, she belongs to a sect of skin experts who think serums are actually preferable to moisturisers in terms of conditioning the complexion. “They can encourage hydration without inhibiting the skin’s natural ability to hydrate, whereas there have been studies to suggest the long term use of moisturisers can upset the skin’s barrier leading to trans-epidermal water loss, which ultimately causes dehydration.” Translation: with or without moisturiser, you ought to add a hydrating serum to your skincare routine, stat.
Dr Kentley doubles down on this but only if there are certain ingredients at certain concentrations. “A well-formulated hydrating serum is valuable as it delivers water-binding ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, at higher concentrations than are usually offered by most moisturisers. These molecules act like microscopic sponges, drawing water into the upper layers of the skin and holding it there, leaving a plump and glowy appearance to the skin.”
Do I need a hydrating serum if I have oily skin?
You might be surprised to hear it, but oily skin absolutely can and often does need hydration. Dr Kentley makes the distinction clear, “Sebum is oil, not water, and the two are not interchangeable.”
“Dehydrated oily skin is surprisingly common, and inadequate hydration can trigger your skin to produce more oil as a compensatory mechanism,” explains Dr Dara Suite, medical director and aesthetic doctor at The Well. “Look for lightweight, water-based hydrating serums containing hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or beta-glucan. Avoid oil-based products and opt for those labelled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free”. Some individuals with oily skin can notice significant improvements in their overall skin balance when incorporating a suitable hydrating serum – often seeing reduced oil production, more refined pores and fewer breakouts.”
What’s the best hydrating serum for dry, sensitive skin?
“For dry, sensitive skin, the best hydrating serums combine humectants with barrier-repair ingredients in non-irritating fragrance-free formulations,” explains Dr Kentley. “Ingredients to look out for include hyaluronic acid and glycerin for binding water, ceramides to replenish skin barrier lipids, and niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. Whilst serums with fragrance, even natural ones, may seem appealing, these can actually cause irritation and even promote allergies.”
He recommends Avène’s Cicalfate+ Intensive Skin Recovery Serum, the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Dermallergo Hydrating Serum or the SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
What’s the best hydrating serum for combination skin?
Combination skin can be challenging to manage with both oily and dry zones on the face. Dr Kentley reveals that this may mean that you need different serums for different areas. “The best serum to use for combination skin will have a balance of lightweight hydration that satisfies dry patches without overwhelming the T-zone. The ideal serum contains multi-weight hyaluronic acid for layered hydration, ingredients such as panthenol (B5) for soothing, and maybe niacinamide to regulate oil production whilst maintaining the skin barrier. Ingredients such as salicylic acid may also be useful to unclog pores and reduce oil production, but remember this can sometimes be irritating for sensitive skin.” He believes the Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense is a great option.
Can I use hydrating serum alongside other serums?
Absolutely, according to Suite. “Hydrating serums work brilliantly as part of a layered approach. For example, you can use a hydrating serum as your foundation layer before applying treatment serums containing actives like vitamin C, retinol or niacinamide. Apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency – typically your hydrating serum first – allowing about 30 seconds between layers for optimal absorption. This enhances penetration of subsequent products and can help mitigate potential irritation from stronger actives. Just check the pH requirements of your various serums, as some combinations might diminish each other’s effectiveness.”
Dr Kentley agrees telling us, “Hydration enhances absorption and reduces friction, so it tends to make the rest of your routine work harder and feel gentler.”
Meet the experts
- Dr Jonathan Kentley is a consultant dermatologist at Montrose London
- Professor Dr Michael Detmar, MD is a leading figure in lymphatic medicine and a co-founder of IRÄYE
- Kate Kerr is an aesthetic facialist and clinic founder
- Dr Dara Suite is a medical director and aesthetic doctor at The Well
How we tested
The best hydrating serums were put to the test on a mixture of different skin types – from Vogue’s senior beauty shopping writer Ellie Davis’ combination skin that is sensitive and often parched, to contributors Tracy Achonwa with acne-prone skin and Georgia Day, who describes her complexion as oily and dry. When on the hunt for the formulas to include in this article, we judged texture, layerability and of course, their moisture-enriching credentials.