Top 5 Best Hydrating Anti-Aging Face Serums. 2024 Dermatologist Review.
If you’re a woman over the age of 25, chances are you’ve probably tried a Hyaluronic Acid serum once or
twice before.
I’ve personally tried more than 40 over my career as a board-certified dermatologist!
I’ve had thousands of patients and I can tell you that it’s always disappointing when you don’t see the
visible results that you were hoping for, especially if you had high hopes for your new routine.
Listen — it’s not your fault.
With so many options and information floating around, it’s hard to differentiate the products that can help
from the ones that make outlandish promises and fail to deliver.
But all that disappointment ends today.
Because I’m here to educate you on why your Hyaluronic Acid serum may not have worked in the past…
And more importantly - how you can change your current routine moving forward and start using this
miracle ingredient the right way, so you can help improve the look and feel of your skin today!
Dr. Kelly W., MD is a board-certified dermatologist and a massive skincare advocate. From sunny Florida, she’s helped thousands of her patients look and feel their best by utilizing her knowledge of cosmetic skincare best practices.
There are many reasons why the look and feel of our skin tends to change over time. But studies show that
some of the most intense visible signs of aging – like wrinkles and loss of firmness – can be linked
to a loss of Hyaluronic Acid’s presence in the skin.2
You see, the skin’s production of Hyaluronic Acid is known to start decreasing as early as age 20, and is
reduced to half by the age of 50.3
And over time, studies show this loss of Hyaluronic Acid can result in intense visible aging – the
wrinkles and fine lines we all know and hate.4
How Does Hyaluronic Acid Help You Age Gracefully?
Hyaluronic Acid is widely known for its ability to hydrate and draw in 1,000 times its volume in water.5 In other words, you can think of it like a sponge - soaking up and holding onto water, helping to
diminish the appearance of wrinkles.6
This powerful ingredient is also known to attract and retain moisture on the skin supporting a
firmer-looking, more radiant complexion.7
But sadly, this isn’t the case with all Hyaluronic Acid serums…
Why Picking “Just Any” Hyaluronic Acid Serum Off The Shelf Is A Recipe For Disappointment
If you’re reading this right now, and you’re thinking to yourself: “Dr. Kelly, I’ve been using Hyaluronic Acid serums for years! Nothing’s worked!”
First off, I’m sorry this has been your experience. I know it can be frustrating putting money, time and
effort into something — only to end up feeling disappointed.
The truth is, it's not just about buying any Hyaluronic Acid serum off the shelf. The right formulation
really makes all the difference.
There are serums out there in fancy packaging that can promise miracles but fail to deliver, and even some
that are filled with cheap fillers and chemicals that could potentially harm your skin.
When it comes to finding the right Hyaluronic Acid for you that gives you the best shot at seeing
impressive visible results, there’s one huge thing I personally always look out for:
a multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid formula.
What does “multi-weight” mean in the context of Hyaluronic Acid? And why is it important?
Understanding The Meaning Of “Multi-Weight” Hyaluronic Acid Serums
Basically, the molecular weights of different Hyaluronic Acids are known to vary. Unlike simpler Hyaluronic
Acid serums, multi-weight hyaluronic acid formulas are designed to offer a wider range of visible benefits
due to having different properties.8
For example, low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid has been shown to sink deep within the skin to help reduce
the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.9 Meanwhile, higher molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid is
known to deliver quick results on the surface, like visible hydration and firmer-feeling skin.10
Now, here are a few more important things to consider when choosing a Hyaluronic Acid serum…
What To Look For In A Hyaluronic Acid Serum For Youthful-Looking Skin
Multi-weight: Like I mentioned in the previous section, multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid serums have been shown to promote deep hydration within the skin for visible results like reducing the appearance of wrinkles.11
Naturally-derived ingredients: I always recommend looking for products that are formulated with organic or naturally-derived ingredients. The last thing you want is to end up with a serum loaded with cheap fillers that do nothing for your skin — or worse, that can potentially irritate your skin.
Think long-term: When looking for a Hyaluronic Acid serum, try and find ingredients that can hydrate and protect your skin for the long run. Ingredients like Betaine, Trehalose, and Pentylene Glycol are great, because they are humectants that can attract and retain moisture on the skin’s surface. This helps to keep your skin plump and smooth, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These ingredients also have antioxidant and soothing properties, which can help to prevent and repair skin damage caused by environmental stressors.
So ladies — now you know why Hyaluronic Acid may not have worked for you in the past. It’s all
about
multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid.
You know what to look for in a serum to take advantage of Hyaluronic Acid’s age-defying benefits.
And now, I’m going to share with you
my absolute favorite multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid serum
that I’ve personally used almost daily over a period of more than 6 months, and that my patients
love as well!
Key Ingredients
Multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid
Antioxidants
Formulated without Parabens
Glycerin
Tremella Mushroom Extract
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
Betaine, Trehalose, and Pentylene Glycol combo
Ingredients Dr. Kelly Avoids
Formulated Without Synthetic Fragrances
Important Criteria
At Least a 30 Day Money-Back Guarantee
1. Rejuvenate Face Serum
Provides enhanced hydration and moisture retention due to Hyaluronic Acid
Visible anti-aging results in just 3 weeks
Lightweight, fast-absorbing serum
90-day money-back guarantee
Contains organic and botanical extracts like Tremella Fuciformis, Portulaca Oleracea, and Aloe Barbadensis
Infused with antioxidants to strengthen the skin
Addresses the root causes of aging, including collagen decline and free radical damage
Efficiency proven in hundreds of testimonials
Suitable for sensitive skin
Affordably priced
Often sold out due to high demand
Only available online for now
Requires consistent use for best results
“Doc, have you gotten younger since the last time I saw you?”
These were the words from one of my patients I hadn't seen in half a year, and all after using
Rejuvenate
for barely three weeks!
“Gosh! Your skin glows - no dark spots on your skin!” But trust me, the spots were there, they had
just visibly improved significantly since using the
Rejuvenate Face Serum.
Right after I started using
Rejuvenate, the
compliments about my "glowy" and "wrinkle-free" skin from my patients just kept pouring in.
I’ve been using it almost daily for more than 6 months now. From the first application, my skin was
almost instantly transformed - it appeared more hydrated, felt firmer, and the
texture was visibly improved. Within 2 weeks, I could see and really feel a difference in my skin,
and the improvements just kept coming even after six months.The results from
Rejuvenate Face Serum
just don’t stop,
it's like the gift that keeps giving!
I've recommended
Rejuvenate to my
patients, and the response has been fantastic. They all love it, feel it’s worth
every penny, and not a single negative comment so far.
Let me share my favorite story from a patient of mine who tried
Rejuvenate:
She had brown discoloration on her cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. After she tried
Rejuvenate, she was
almost in tears, not only due to the reduction of the appearance of her dark spots but because of
how confident she felt about her skin. She felt less reliant on makeup and had started receiving
compliments like, “What's your secret treatment? Which medication are you using?" The only change
she'd made was using
Rejuvenate.
So how does
Rejuvenate deliver such
amazing visible anti-aging results?
Firstly, it has very clean, high-quality ingredients. No cheap fillers and it's formulated without
synthetic ingredients. I found its hyaluronic acid formulation unique for its clean, botanical
make-up. This serum really helped my skin feel more hydrated!
Next,
Rejuvenate is very easy
to use. It has a very lightweight texture, going on smoothly and absorbing extremely quickly into
the skin. It goes on lovely underneath moisturizer or makeup. It feels hydrating but not greasy or
sticky. I don’t feel it, and I love that I don’t wake up in the morning with oily stains on my
pillowcase.
Finally, the magic of Tremella Fuciformis Extract and Portulaca Oleracea Extract can work wonders
for your skin. Tremella Fuciformis Extract is famous for having a multitude of benefits for your
skin. It boasts the extraordinary ability to hydrate the skin and bind moisture to its surface. Much
like hyaluronic acid, Tremella Fuciformis Extract can retain lots of moisture, locking in almost 500
times its weight in water! Plus, you also get to enjoy its collagen-boosting and anti-aging
properties. The result? A deeply hydrated and gloriously glowing look that will leave your skin
feeling more revitalized than ever!
Portulaca Oleracea Extract, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant known to help fight off
environmental aggressors. 3 4 It acts as a shield that safeguards your skin from the
damaging effects of any external stressors, allowing you to keep looking youthful.
When combined, these potent active ingredients work together to reveal
a complexion that not only looks healthy but also feels well-nourished and radiant.
Usually, Hyaluronic Acid and Tremella Fuciformis Extract are sold separately, so it’s great to see
them combined together in this powerful formulation. I have dry, sensitive skin and I have had to
deal with irritation, redness, and sensitivity from other products. As someone who has to be extra
careful about what I put on my skin, I pay very close attention to the ingredients that brands put
in their products. So it was nice to find that
Rejuvenate doesn’t
irritate my skin at all. That’s why I’d consider
Rejuvenate
to be suitable for all skin types.
If you want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, look visibly younger, and get
compliments like my patients and me - then you should give
Rejuvenate a try!
2. Lancôme Advanced Génifique
Instantly plumps and brightens skin
Includes hydrating hyaluronic acid
Absorbs quickly with a lightweight texture
Provides antioxidants like vitamin C
Can be added to any skincare routine
Very high price point
Contains added fragrance and alcohol
Contains some synthetic ingredients which might not be clean enough for some preferences
Lancôme's Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum is a highly acclaimed and well-loved product that
has garnered a loyal following for its powerful anti-aging benefits. This potent serum is designed to
tackle a variety of aging concerns, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and dullness, making it a versatile
addition to any skincare routine.
Similar to Inblair's
Rejuvenate, when I used the
Advanced Génifique serum, it gave my skin quick results - an instant visible glowing and plumping
effect. Plus, their self-loading applicator makes it easy to apply the perfect amount of serum.
I felt that Advanced Génifique had a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that left my skin feeling
smooth and soft, without any sticky residue. I’m slightly prone to blemishes, but the Advanced Génifique
didn’t break me out the way other serums can, so I feel it can be suitable for acne-prone skin. It does
contain some fragrance and some alcohol, so if you’re prone to dryness and irritation, this may not be
suitable. Whilst my skin is sensitive, the Advanced Génifique felt fine for me, so it's worth patch
testing to see how your skin tolerates it.
The serum boasts an impressive blend of active ingredients, including Hyaluronic Acid for its hydrating
properties, and a high-quality Vitamin C complex.5 Vitamin C has been shown to help brighten
the skin, promoting a radiant, glowy complexion.6
I’m a fan of the Bidifda Ferment Lysate, which is second on the ingredient list and is not found in a
lot of serums. It’s been shown to help support the skin's natural barrier, enhancing its overall
radiance and healthy appearance.7
While Lancôme's Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum delivers remarkable results, it falls just
short of the top spot when compared to Inblair’s
Rejuvenate Face Serum, which
offers an exceptional non-irritating formulation along with the powerful combination of
naturally-derived Tremella Fuciformis Extract and Portulaca Oleracea Extract. Nevertheless, Lancôme's
serum remains a strong contender for those seeking effective and luxurious anti-aging skincare.
3. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair
Repairs skin while you sleep
Provides hydration with hyaluronic acid
Contains antioxidants to strengthen skin
Silky, smooth texture
Longer absorption time
Contains synthetic fragrances and dyes
Expensive
Results not dramatic enough for some
Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex is a tried-and-true classic in
the world of anti-aging skincare. Since its introduction in 1982, this overnight Hyaluronic Acid serum
has been formulated to work while you sleep, helping to target fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin
tone to reveal a more radiant, youthful complexion.8
The serum is designed to support the skin's natural repair process during the night. Like Lancôme’s
Advanced Génifique Serum, this product makes use of Bifida Ferment Lysate. Extracted from
Bifidobacterium, Bifida Ferment is known to be a powerful antioxidant and has been shown to help
strengthen the skin barrier.9
Additionally, the formula includes antioxidants, such as Caffeine and Chamomile, to help protect the
skin against environmental stressors.10 11 Plus, it contains Glycerin and Squalane, which are
praised for supporting skin hydration.12 13 This luxurious serum is designed to address the
needs of dehydrated skin with nourishing, skin-loving ingredients.
I felt that Advanced Night Repair has a silky texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin, leaving a
bright, dewy glow. This does mean that it takes a bit longer to absorb and can feel a bit greasy which
some may find annoying.
I generally prefer fragrance-free products as they tend to be less irritating on my sensitive skin, so
I’m a big fan of Estée Lauder’s scentless formulation. However, it does contain some synthetic dyes,
including Red 4 (Ci 14700) and Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), which may be a dealbreaker for some customers who
prefer more natural products.
While it doesn't quite reach the top spots compared to Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum
or
Inblair’s Rejuvenate Face Serum, the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex definitely delivers that
instant glow that we expect from a Hyaluronic Acid serum.
4. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Very affordable
Straightforward formula
Temporarily plumps skin
Has hydrating hyaluronic acid
Potential irritation
Sticky, tacky texture
Temporary results
Not dramatically anti-aging
For those seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid
2% + B5 Serum is an excellent choice. This is a brand that many of my younger patients adore for their
straightforward, no-frills approach to delivering effective results at an affordable price. This
well-formulated serum combines the benefits of Hyaluronic Acid with the added nourishment of Vitamin B5.
The Hyaluronic Acid formula is designed to provide multi-depth hydration, working at different levels of
the skin to help retain moisture and improve the overall appearance.14 Vitamin B5, also known as
Pantothenic Acid, is known to offer additional support for hydration and the skin's natural barrier
function.15
I would only recommend using this serum at night as it can feel quite sticky and tacky - not great for
using under sunscreen or makeup!
The first few times I used this serum, I did feel some stinging and slight irritation. This may be
because of the Citric Acid included, or it may have just mixed poorly with the other skincare products I
use in my routine. For this reason, I would recommend that anyone with sensitive skin exercise caution
when using this product.
The main benefit of this serum is the hydration that it promises to deliver, so if you have dry or
dehydrated skin, this could be the product for you. The ingredient list is simple and free from
unnecessary fillers and fragrances, with Hyaluronic Acid as the second ingredient listed.
Although it isn’t as effective as other serums listed, The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum is a
solid option for those looking to incorporate Hyaluronic Acid into their routine without breaking the
bank.
5. Drunk Elephant BHydraTM
Provides intense hydration
Strengthens moisture barrier
Smooth, lotion-like texture
Layers well under products
Clean, vegan formula
Contains chlorphenesin
Not as anti-aging as other serums
Results depend on how well it works with other products
Drunk Elephant's B-Hydra™ Intensive Hydration Serum focuses on intense hydration, supporting the skin's
natural barrier, and maintaining a healthy-looking, youthful complexion.
Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, this serum is designed to support powerful hydration that helps to
plump up the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains Watermelon Extract and Niacinamide,
which are praised for helping to encourage a visibly healthy and hydrated complexion.16 17
I personally found it very hydrating, even when applying it on dry and flakey skin, I felt like it
retained that moisture on my skin and it felt instantly hydrated even with the first application.
The serum's lotion-like texture glides onto the skin and absorbs well. Because of the consistency, it’s
somewhere between a serum and a lotion. It’s a nice product to add to your morning routine. It can be
used as a daily moisturizer, instead of having to apply a moisturizer after applying your serum. You can
skip that moisturizer step with this product altogether.
It’s formulated without fragrances and silicones, which helps make it suitable for most skin types.
However, it does contain Chlorphenesin - a synthetic preservative that is listed as a moderate irritant
by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).18 Therefore it may not be suitable for those with sensitive
skin.
Drunk Elephant is a brand that prides itself on clean, effective formulations, and its B-Hydra™
Intensive Hydration Serum is no exception. With its focus on hydration and skin health, it's an
excellent addition to any anti-aging skincare routine.
While I like using this product, I do feel there are better options out there. That’s why B-Hydra™ ranks
after the others.
My Favorite Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid Serum!
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Formulated with organic and naturally-derived botanicals
-
Multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid formulation
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Designed to be suitable for many skin types
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Vegan and certified cruelty-free