The Best Hydrating Serums: 8 Top Picks for Dewy, Healthy Skin

Key Ingredients for Skin Hydration

The most effective hydrating serums contain a blend of ingredients that attract, hold, and lock in moisture. Here are the top players:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A superstar humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, instantly plumping and hydrating skin.

• Glycerin: Another powerful humectant that draws water into the skin for fast, lasting moisture.

• Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Soothes, hydrates, and helps support the skin barrier.

• Beta-Glucan: A natural polysaccharide that deeply hydrates and calms irritation.

• Tremella Mushroom: A natural alternative to hyaluronic acid, known for its impressive moisture retention.

• Ceramides: Lipids that help lock in hydration and repair the skin barrier.

• Centella Asiatica: Soothes and supports hydration, especially for sensitive skin.

• Mineral Water: Rich in minerals, it supports hydration and strengthens the skin barrier.

When and Why to Use a Hydrating Serum

• When: Apply a hydrating serum after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer. For best results, use it on damp skin, morning and night.

• Why: Serums have smaller molecules than creams, allowing them to penetrate deeper and deliver hydration where your skin needs it most.

• How it works: These serums draw moisture into the skin and help it retain water, resulting in a plumper, smoother, and more radiant complexion. They also support your skin’s barrier, making it more resilient to environmental stressors.

8 Hydrating Serums I Love (and Why I Recommend Them)

1. Torriden DIVE IN Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Why I recommend it:
This Korean favorite uses a 5D multi-hyaluronic acid complex for instant, deep hydration. It’s lightweight, absorbs in seconds, and never feels sticky. Panthenol and allantoin soothe and balance, making it perfect for daily use—even for sensitive skin. Expect a dewy, “lit-from-within” glow and a noticeable reduction in dryness and irritation.

Key benefits:

• Deep, fast-absorbing hydration

• Lightweight, non-sticky texture

• Soothes and balances oil-water levels

• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic

Best for:
All skin types, especially those needing a hydration boost without heaviness.

Click here to learn more or purchase Torriden DIVE IN Hyaluronic Acid Serum

2. Vichy Mineral 89 Booster

Why I recommend it:
A cult-classic, this serum combines 89% volcanic mineral water with hyaluronic acid for powerful hydration and barrier support. The gel texture is light, oil-free, and non-sticky—perfect for layering under makeup. It leaves skin plump, soft, and glowing, and is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.

Key benefits:

• Strengthens skin’s moisture barrier

• Plumps and hydrates for a fresh look

• Lightweight, absorbs quickly

• Suitable for all skin types

Best for:
Anyone seeking a simple, effective hydration step in their routine.

Click here to learn more or purchase Vichy Mineral 89 Booster

3. HERBIVORE Cloud Jelly Plumping Hydration Serum

Why I recommend it:
This vegan, plant-based serum uses tremella mushroom (a hyaluronic acid alternative) and strawberry extract for deep, long-lasting hydration. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and gives skin a bouncy, plump feel. Perfect for those who want hydration with a clean, cruelty-free formula.

Key benefits:

• Deep hydration with tremella mushroom

• Lightweight, non-greasy finish

• Leaves skin plump, smooth, and radiant

• Vegan and cruelty-free

Best for:
All skin types, including sensitive or those seeking a natural option.

Click here to learn more or purchase HERBIVORE Cloud Jelly Plumping Hydration Serum

4. Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum

Why I recommend it:
This French pharmacy gem delivers up to 48 hours of hydration with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. The water-gel texture is refreshing and non-greasy, instantly soothing dryness and discomfort. It’s especially loved by those with sensitive or dehydrated skin.

Key benefits:

• 48-hour intense hydration

• Soothes and restores the skin barrier

• Non-sticky, lightweight texture

• Enhances radiance and plumpness

Best for:
Dehydrated, sensitive, or irritation-prone skin.

Click here to learn more or purchase Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum

5. Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum

Why I recommend it:
This innovative Korean serum combines hyaluronic acid, PDRN (salmon DNA), and collagen for a plumping, glass-skin effect. It’s fragrance-free, super lightweight, and instantly calms redness and irritation. Over time, it helps with hydration, texture, and overall skin resilience.

Key benefits:

• Deep, long-lasting hydration

• Plumps and soothes skin

• Improves skin texture and resilience

• Fragrance-free and gentle

Best for:
All skin types, especially those with redness or sensitivity.

Click here to learn more or purchase Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum

6. IUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Deep Moisture Vegan Serum

Why I recommend it:
Beta-glucan, derived from mushrooms, holds even more moisture than hyaluronic acid and is incredibly soothing. This serum is perfect for dry, mature, or sensitive skin needing intense hydration and a calming touch. It also supports cell regeneration and lifting for a firmer look.

Key benefits:

• Intense, lasting hydration

• Calms irritation and strengthens the skin barrier

• Supports cell regeneration and lifting

• Vegan and naturally derived

Best for:
Dry, mature, sagging, or sensitive skin.

Click here to learn more or purchase IUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Deep Moisture Vegan Serum

7. ISNTREE Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Why I recommend it:
With 14 types of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights, this serum hydrates every layer of your skin. It’s lightweight, vegan, and absorbs fast, making it ideal for anyone who wants deep hydration without any residue.

Key benefits:

• Multi-layer hydration

• Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture

• Vegan and suitable for sensitive skin

Best for:
All skin types, especially those who dislike heavy or sticky products.

Click here to learn more or purchase ISNTREE Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum

8. MIZON Cicaluronic Serum

Why I recommend it:
This soothing serum blends centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid for hydration and calming benefits. It’s vegan, lightweight, and perfect for skin that’s easily irritated or needs extra moisture after sun exposure or treatments.

Key benefits:

• Soothes and hydrates sensitive skin

• Strengthens the moisture barrier

• Lightweight, non-greasy formula

• Vegan and gentle

Best for:
Sensitive, reactive, or post-treatment skin.

Click here to learn more or purchase MIZON Cicaluronic Serum

Choosing the right hydrating serum means listening to your skin’s needs and picking a formula that delivers moisture, comfort, and a healthy glow. Each of these serums offers something unique—find your favorite and enjoy dewy, resilient skin every day!