Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin clinics, explains: "Hyaluronic acid will draw moisture from wherever it can find it to hydrate the surface of your face, including the deeper layers of your skin if there is no humidity in the air."
So try applying a hyaluronic serum straight out of the shower or after washing your face. Then, make sure to follow up with a moisturiser packed with emollients, such as glycerin and ceramides, to keep the hydration 'locked in'.
This is a brilliant example of skincare layering, which – despite sounding a bit ‘pro-level beauty' – is actually just a fancy way of saying slathering your products on in order of thinnest formulas first (hyaluronic acid qualifies) and then following up with thicker, richer products.
By and large, Dr Ewoma recommends staying away from a pick-a-mix type of skincare routine. But in theory you could combine hyaluronic acid with certain actives in a thoughtfully assembled skincare routine.
“When combining serums, you need to make sure that they’re complementary - in other words, aimed at the same skin concern," says Dr Ewoma. "For example, say your skin concern is oiliness and breakouts, you will want to combine niacinamide with salicylic acid. Or look for serums that compensate each other: vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, or for nighttime, retinol and hyaluronic acid,” she adds.
Should I use hyaluronic acid in the morning or night? | Is hyaluronic acid good for mature skin? | Does hyaluronic acid remove dark spots? | How long does it take for hyaluronic acid to work?
Scroll for GLAMOUR's full edit of the best hyaluronic acid serums…
Best overall
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Why we love it: Not only is this face serum reasonably priced, but it’s also great when it comes to plumping and soothing the skin, thanks to the healthy combo of two types of pure hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. Plus, the allergy tested, paraben-free and oil-free formula is an optimal choice for those prone to sensitivity.
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Best for oily skin
Glossier Super Bounce Serum
Why we love it: Refreshing feel, smooth application, nearly instant results… What's not to love? This serum features a 2% hyaluronic acid complex in combination with Pro-Vitamin B5, resulting in premium-grade hydration. Oh, and it's also a non-sticky formula, sign us up!
Best hyaluronic acid serum with vitamin C
JSHealth Pro-Collagen Vitamin Serum
Why we love it: Experts and dermatologists alike have confirmed that hyaluronic acid serum works great when combined with vitamin C, and we couldn't agree more. Not only is the formula perfect for brightening, but it also has collagen-boosting benefits, delivering impressive and virtually instant results and leaving your skin plumped and hydrated.
Best for intense hydration
Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum
Why we love it: If you’re hoping to achieve that glowy summer look, then Beauty Pie’s hyaluronic acid serum is definitely worth checking out. We’re big fans of the formula, which features “gravity-fighting” peptides and smoothing ceramides. And yes, you read it right, it features a TRIPLE-weight hyaluronic acid blend to hydrate your face on a whole new level.
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