Best Hydrating Serums for Dry Skin (2026) Reviewed
Dry, tight, flaky skin needs more than a basic moisturizer. Hydrating serums deliver concentrated moisture-binding ingredients directly into your skin. Here are the best options across every budget and skin concern.
What to Look For
- Hyaluronic acid — Holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water; look for multi-weight formulas that penetrate different skin layers
- Ceramides — Strengthen the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss; essential for chronically dry or compromised skin
- Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) — Attracts moisture while soothing irritation; pairs well with hyaluronic acid
- Texture — Lightweight gels absorb fast; richer formulas suit very dry skin but may feel tacky under makeup
- Fragrance — Fragrance-free formulas reduce irritation risk for sensitive or eczema-prone skin
Best Hydrating Serums
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Best Overall
- Ultra Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Barrier Repair: Deeply hydrates, plumps skin to the touch, and restores the moisture barrier for a supple feel, with 91% agreeing skin feels smoother instantly. ***Consumer test, 85 subjects, 2x/day application.
- Targeted Anti-Aging & Skin Repair: A super-activated hydrating serum designed to target anti-aging concerns, reducing fine lines, dehydrated skin and improving elasticity, with **1-hour skin barrier repair. **Instrumental test.
- Formulated for Rich, Plump Hydration: Features pure hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and vitamin B5 for optimal hydration, rich texture, and suitability for sensitive skin. Leaves skin hydrated and smooth to the touch.
- Dermatologist Tested Face Serum for Women & Men: Clinically proven to hydrate and visibly plump skin, with 90% seeing more hydrated, supple skin and 96% reporting improved texture. ***Consumer test, 85 subjects, 2x/day application.
- Gentle Yet Powerful for All Skin Types: Allergy-tested formula suits all skin types, including sensitive skin, delivering hydration and reducing fine lines with refined texture for an even, smoother look.
The gold standard for sensitive, dry skin—dermatologist-tested with a minimalist formula that delivers results.
Combines two types of hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5 and madecassoside for hydration plus skin repair. The gel texture absorbs without residue, making it ideal under moisturizer or SPF. Allergy-tested and safe for reactive skin types.
- Pros:
- Fragrance-free, oil-free formula
- Contains skin-soothing madecassoside
- Lightweight enough for layering
- Safe for sensitive and eczema-prone skin
- Cons:
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Smaller bottle size (30ml)
Best for: Anyone with sensitive, dry skin who wants a reliable, dermatologist-recommended hydrator.
CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Best Budget
- [ HYALURONIC ACID SERUM ] CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face is formulated with our highest concentration of hyaluronic acid, an ingredient that helps retain skin’s natural moisture. Helps skin appear more hydrated and smoother.
- [ SMOOTH TEXTURE ] Lightweight, hydrating serum with a smooth, gel texture. If layering with an eye cream or facial moisturizer, apply HA Serum in a thin layer to slightly damp skin and allow to fully absorb into skin before applying additional products.
- [ ALL DAY HYDRATION ] With Vitamin B5 to help soothe skin. Features CeraVe's patented MVE ingredient-delivery technology to continually release moisturizing ingredients and provide 24-hour lasting hydration.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
- [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more.
Drugstore pricing with dermatologist-grade ingredients—ceramides plus hyaluronic acid in one affordable serum.
Features CeraVe’s signature MVE technology that releases moisturizing ingredients over 24 hours. The gel-cream texture works for all skin types, and three essential ceramides help restore the skin barrier while hyaluronic acid plumps fine lines.
- Pros:
- Contains three essential ceramides
- MVE technology for extended hydration
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- Excellent value for the formula quality
- Cons:
- Slightly thicker texture than pure gels
- May pill under certain products
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want ceramide benefits without the premium price tag.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 — Best Value
- INSTANT HYDRATION: Provides immediate, long-lasting hydration for smoother, plumper, and healthier-looking skin.
- SUPPORTS SKIN BARRIER: Ceramides lock in moisture and support the skin’s protective barrier.
- REDUCES FINE LINES: Minimizes the appearance of fine dry lines and wrinkles while promoting elasticity and skin smoothness.
- PRO-VITAMIN B5: Enhances the skin's moisture retention and supports the formation of essential barrier components like ceramides.
- 5 TYPES OF HYALURONIC ACID: Delivers hydration to multiple layers of the skin, improving moisture retention and skin suppleness.
Multiple weights of hyaluronic acid plus ceramides at an unbeatable price point.
The reformulated version now includes three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid plus ceramide-supporting ingredients for improved barrier protection. Lightweight texture absorbs quickly without stickiness. One of the most affordable serums that actually delivers noticeable plumping effects.
- Pros:
- Multi-depth hydration formula
- Updated formula includes ceramide support
- Under $20 for a generous bottle
- Works well under makeup
- Cons:
- Can feel slightly tacky during absorption
- Basic dropper packaging
Best for: Skincare minimalists who want effective hydration without paying for fancy packaging.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Best Drugstore
- 1 fl. oz bottle of Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers deep hydration for face and neck, restoring dry, tired skin for a soft, supple, and refreshed complexion.
- Lightweight facial serum enriched with purified hyaluronic acid, trehalose, and glycerin penetrates deeply for long-lasting hydration.
- Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic, this serum is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and absorbs quickly without residue.
- Ideal for layering under moisturizer, this hydrating serum helps maintain skin’s natural moisture balance and achieves a smooth, radiant finish.
Clinically proven 24-hour hydration from the top-selling hyaluronic acid brand in the US.
Combines hyaluronic acid with pro-vitamin B5 and glycerin for layered hydration. The ultra-light formula absorbs instantly with no residue, making it perfect for morning routines. Dermatologist-tested and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Pros:
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Instantly absorbs without stickiness
- Works under makeup and SPF
- Widely available at drugstores
- Cons:
- May not be enough for very dry skin alone
- Plastic packaging
Best for: Those who want a no-fuss hydrating serum they can grab at any pharmacy.
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence — Best K-Beauty
- The Real Snail Essence: Formulated with 96.3% Snail Secretion Filtrate, this essence repairs and rejuvenates the skin from dryness and aging. It improves skin vitality by reducing dullness and soothing dehydrated skin.
- Simple Yet Effective Light-weight Essence: A lightweight essence which fastly absorbs into the skin and gives you a natural and healthy glow. Guarantees long-lasting hydration without heavy feeling on the skin.
- Key Ingredient: Snail Secretion Filtrate contains "Mucin"- an EFFECTIVE ingredient for enhanced moisturization. It instantly soothes damaged skin and delivers moisture deep into your skin. Perfect for dehydrated and damaged skin.
- NO Snails are Harmed: Snail Mucin is obtained in a safe and environmentally friendly way in a favorite environment of snails and then processed as a cosmetic material. 100% Natural, Hypoallergenic, Dermatologist-tested.
- Patch Test Recommended: Based on a Skin Irritation Test and a Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT), the Snail 96 Mucin Essence is safe to use on sensitive skin. Perform a Patch Test on the body before using on the face. Proceed to using on the face if no irritation occurs in 24 hours. Consult with your doctor immediately if irritation occurs.
Cult-favorite K-beauty essence that hydrates, repairs, and gives that coveted “glass skin” glow.
Contains 96.3% snail secretion filtrate—a powerhouse ingredient for hydration, skin repair, and soothing irritation. The slightly viscous texture might feel unusual at first but absorbs to leave skin bouncy and luminous. Gentle enough for post-acne or sensitized skin.
- Pros:
- Multi-tasking formula (hydrates, soothes, repairs)
- Large 100ml bottle lasts months
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Helps fade post-acne marks
- Cons:
- Snail mucin texture not for everyone
- Not vegan
Best for: K-beauty fans or anyone dealing with dry, damaged, or post-breakout skin.
Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum — Best Premium
- WHAT IT IS: This daily flood of hydration replenishes skin while improving long-term hydration, diminishing dullness, dryness, and the look of fine lines.
- WHAT ELSE TO KNOW: Formulated with pro-vitamin B5 and pineapple ceramide, B-Hydra provides immediate hydration while improving skin’s water-retention abilities, promoting long-lasting hydration and revealing more luminous and youthful-looking skin.
- KEY INGREDIENTS: Pineapple ceramide boosts luminosity and improves the appearance of skin’s texture and tone. Pro-vitamin B5 attracts hydration to skin and holds it, improving skin’s barrier function. Sodium hyaluronate delivers intense hydration.
- HOW TO USE: Apply one pump to a clean, dry face, neck, chest, hands, or any place needing increased hydration. Mix with any Drunk Elephant serum, oil, or cream to lock it in.
- THE DRUNK ELEPHANT DIFFERENCE: We focus on healthy pH levels, formulations the skin recognizes, small molecular structures that are easily absorbed, and effective active ingredients that support the skin barrier, and we never use the Suspicious 6.
Clean-beauty hydration that works with any routine—no fragrance, silicones, or “suspicious six” ingredients.
Formulated with pro-vitamin B5, pineapple ceramide, and sodium hyaluronate (a smaller molecule HA that penetrates deeper). Designed to mix with other serums or moisturizers. Clinically proven to improve hydration immediately and over time.
- Pros:
- Mixes well with other products
- Free from common irritants
- Improves skin’s water retention long-term
- Airless pump packaging
- Cons:
- Premium price point
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin on its own
Best for: Clean beauty enthusiasts who want a versatile, mixable hydrator.
Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Booster — Best for Barrier Repair
- Drench Your Skin In Essential Hydration: Our best-selling hyaluronic acid serum, known as a 'drink of water for your skin,' hydrates & visibly plumps skin, leaving it feeling refreshed & soothed. Plumping face serum for women & men
- Experience The Power of Millions of Minerals: Infused with our proprietary Vichy Volcanic Mineral-Rich Water that hydrates & strenghtens the skin, boosts antioxidant defenses & reduces skin inflammation. Barrier repair moisturizer for all skin types
- Addictive Fresh & Lightweight Texture for Seamless Layering: A transparent gel moisturizer for face with a fast-absorbing water-gel formula that works with all skin types & routines - ideal under makeup or SPF, with no pilling, residue or stickiness
- Minimalist, Clean Formula For All: Specifically formulated with 11 core ingredients, fragrance free and alcohol-free, to be suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, that are in need of a daily dose of strengthening hydration
- Dermatologist & Clinically Tested: This daily plumping & hydrating serum has been clinically tested by 175 dermatologists on 1600 women worldwide. An anti aging skin care serum accepted by the National Eczema Association
89% mineral-rich volcanic water plus hyaluronic acid—clinically proven to strengthen and repair the skin barrier.
A minimalist 11-ingredient formula that focuses on fortifying compromised skin. The gel-serum hybrid texture feels like a drink of water and layers seamlessly under any routine. Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
- Pros:
- Only 11 ingredients
- Clinically proven barrier repair
- NEA accepted
- Lightweight gel-serum texture
- Cons:
- May not feel “rich” enough for very dry skin
- Glass bottle not travel-friendly
Best for: Those with compromised, stressed, or environmentally damaged skin who need barrier support.
Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster — Best with Ceramides
- HYALURONIC ACID BOOSTER: This specialized matrix of skin-smoothing hyaluronic acid, skin-replenishing ceramides, and panthenol penetrates skin's surface to lock in moisture, keeping skin hydrated and moisturized.
- VISIBLY PLUMPS SKIN: From first use, this hyaluronic acid serum instantly hydrates and visibly plumps skin, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles for a supple look, even around the delicate eye area, improving overall skin texture.
- ADD TO YOUR ROUTINE: This versatile hyaluronic acid booster can be used alone as a hydrating serum, or mixed with your favorite facial moisturizer for enhanced hydration and skin-plumping benefits.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Lightweight, fragrance-free hyaluronic acid gel formula is perfect for dry and dehydrated skin that's seeking a daily hydration boost.
- Paula's Choice Skincare makes science-backed products that work. No fragrance, no fluff. Just effective, cruelty-free formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
Concentrated hyaluronic acid plus ceramides and panthenol in a targeted treatment formula.
A true booster designed to add hydration to any serum or moisturizer. The silky texture absorbs without interference, and the ceramide complex helps lock moisture in. Small bottle but highly concentrated—a few drops go far.
- Pros:
- Ceramides plus hyaluronic acid
- Can mix with any product
- Silky, non-tacky finish
- Fragrance-free
- Cons:
- Small 0.5oz bottle
- Higher cost per ounce
Best for: Those who want to boost hydration in their existing routine without switching products.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule — Best for Soothing
Pure centella asiatica extract calms irritation while delivering lightweight hydration—a K-beauty staple.
A single-ingredient-focused ampoule with high-quality Madagascan centella asiatica. The watery texture absorbs instantly and works to reduce redness while hydrating. Excellent for sensitized, reactive, or post-procedure skin.
- Pros:
- Soothing and hydrating in one
- Large 100ml bottle
- Minimalist ingredient list
- Calms redness and irritation
- Cons:
- Very lightweight—may need layering for dry skin
- Watery texture can drip during application
Best for: Sensitive skin types who need hydration with soothing, anti-redness benefits.
Verdict
For most people with dry skin, the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 delivers the best combination of effective hydration, gentle ingredients, and dermatologist backing. On a budget, CeraVe’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum offers similar ceramide-plus-HA benefits at a fraction of the cost. K-beauty fans should try the COSRX Snail Mucin for its multi-tasking repair benefits.
