15 Best Hydrating Serums to Revive Your Dry Skin, Reviewed for 2025
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I’m not exaggerating when I say that my skin barrier has never been stronger, and that’s all courtesy of the best hydrating serums–a.k.a. the backbone of my hard-working skin care regimen. While I love my actives (from retinol and vitamin C serums to BHA exfoliants), I’ve learned time and time again that prioritizing hydration is key, regardless of your skin type.
That said, let’s not forget that achieving optimal hydration levels isn’t as simple as slathering on a nourishing moisturizer. Although they’re equally as important, creams are meant to support the work of quality face serums, which play a huge role in maintaining long-term benefits.
As Dr. Mahsa Saleki, aesthetic doctor and surgeon at SAS Aesthetics, explains: “Serums typically contain a higher concentration of ingredients that penetrate deeper into the skin. They deliver intense hydration and target specific concerns, thus improving skin texture, plumpness, and resulting in a much more radiant complexion in the long run.” Look for formulas that have hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, or glycerin–all of which will soothe, replenish and breathe life back into your skin, all while looking after its delicate moisture barrier. The result? A dewy, lit-from-within complexion that will also serve as excellent skin prep for your makeup.
To save you the time of researching and sifting through hundreds of ingredient lists, I've put together a comprehensive edit of the best hydrating serums out there, based on the Glamour beauty team’s first-hand reviews as well as expert advice coming directly from the best dermatologists and aestheticians in the biz. Here’s everything you need to know.
The best hydrating serums, at a glance
- Best Overall: Medik8 Hydr8 B5, $54
- Best for Dry Skin: Caudalie Vinosource-Hydra SOS Thirst-Quenching Serum, $70
- Best for Sensitive Skin: SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier Multi-Glycan, $120
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $20
How we tested hydrating serums
The Glamour team has collectively tried hundreds of hydrating serums, testing them on a variety of skin types and age groups. When reviewing each formula, we’ve assessed the efficacy and whether it delivers lasting hydration, as well as determining its value for money and how innovative it is compared with other options on the market. We also took note of whether or not it felt greasy on the skin and if it resulted in any flare-ups or irritation.
What are the most effective hydrating ingredients for skin?
Dermatologists agree that components like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are considered highly effective for lasting hydration. “Popular hydrating serums encompass a variety of ingredients,” says Dr. Yulia Krasnaya, dermatologist at Evolution Aesthetics Clinic.
“Hyaluronic acid is a potent humectant, capable of holding water molecules and providing intense hydration. Glycerin is also a humectant that attracts and retains moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated,” says Dr. Mahsa Saleki, aesthetic doctor and surgeon at SAS Aesthetics.
And if your skin calls for a more intense hydrating serum, make sure to consider formulas containing beta glucan. “Beta glucan is 20% more hydrating than hyaluronic acid. Beta glucans are derived from bacteria, fungi, seaweed, and grains, like oats. It’s a humectant that also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that it will help to restore and repair skin barrier,” says Dr. Christine Hall, a general practitioner in medical aesthetics registered with the UK’s General Medical Council.
Dr. Hall also recommends opting for a serum that’s formulated with ceramides: “Produced by our sebaceous glands, ceramides are lipids, molecules, or fats that ensure that our skin barrier remains strong and prevents transepidermal water loss, or water loss through the skin barrier.”
Dr. Krasnaya also says that “aloe vera is great for soothing and hydrating, niacinamide improves the skin’s barrier function, and panthenol attracts and holds moisture.”
How to choose the right hydrating serum for your exact skin type
“It’s crucial to consider individual skin concerns and preferences when selecting a hydrating serum. Hyaluronic acid serums are generally suitable for all skin types as they provide hydration without being heavy,” says Dr. Saleki.
“Niacinamide serums are beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin, as they can help regulate sebum production. Dry or sensitive skin may benefit from serums containing ceramides or glycerin, which offer deep moisturising and soothing properties,” she says.
Dr. Krasnaya also points out that sensitive skin types can also benefit from ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile to calm irritated skin. And Dr. Saleki says, “When selecting a hydrating serum, individuals should avoid products with potentially irritating ingredients, such as artificial fragrances, alcohol, or high concentrations of certain acids.”
According to Dr. Saleki, it’s important to keep in mind that such ingredients may “exacerbate sensitivity and counteract the hydrating effects.” Plus, it’s essential to check for comedogenic ingredients, especially if you happen to have oily or acne-prone skin, in order to prevent pore clogging.
How to apply a hydrating serum for the best results
When it comes to application, the good news is that it’s far less complicated than you’d think. Dr. Saleki advises the following: “After cleansing and toning, apply the hydrating serum before heavier products like moisturisers or creams. This allows the serum’s active ingredients to be absorbed into the skin more effectively.”
Says Dr. Krasnaya, “The recommended order is cleanser, toner (if used), hydrating serum, treatment serums (if used), moisturizer, and sunscreen during the day.”
That said, if you’re planning to use more than one serum, Dr. Saleki recommends applying them in order of consistency from thinnest to thickest. “The frequency of application depends on the product and individual skin needs,” she says. “However, using a hydrating serum once or twice daily is common for optimal results. Adjust the frequency based on how your skin responds.”
Meet the experts
- Dr. Christine Hall, general practitioner in medical aesthetics registered with the UK’s General Medical Council
- Dr. Yulia Krasnaya, dermatologist at Evolution Aesthetics Clinic
- Dr. Mahsa Saleki, aesthetic doctor and founder of SAS Aesthetics
Best Overall: Medik8 Hydr8 B5
1/14Medik8 Hydr8 B5
- Best for: Everyday hydration; maintaining moisture retention
- Key ingredients: Multiweight hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, citric acid
- Size: 30 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Glamour’s beauty contributor
Why we love it: Is your skin feeling especially dry and vulnerable? This best-selling Medik8 serum will help with both, thanks to its potent and hydrating formula. Able to penetrate through multiple layers of the skin with multiweight hyaluronic acid, this clever formulation is also oil-free and feels super weightless upon application. Suitable for use on your face, neck, and decolletage. “As a long-term fan of the Medik8 skin care range, I’m confident that when my skin is at its driest and most irritated, the Hydr8 B5 serum has my back. Its nourishing formula feels incredibly soothing on the skin, especially during the winter months, when my skin is craving that extra TLC,” says Primbet.
Best for Dewy Skin: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
2/14Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
- Best for: Dewy skin
- Key ingredients: Watermelon extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, moringa seed oil.
- Size: 40 ml
- Tester: Lian Brooks, Glamour's senior audience development manager
Why we love it: Ever since the #SkinTok community practically declared the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops as one of the most viral skin care products on the market, this clever formula has quickly become synonymous with dewy skin, and with good reason. Formulated to reduce hyperpigmentation and deliver lasting hydration, this multitasking serum is filled to the brim with skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide. Plus, you can mix it in with your favourite foundation for a more natural-looking result. When testing this formula, Brooks noted that it immediately sinks into the skin without feeling too greasy, revealing a healthy-looking complexion.
Best for Sensitive Skin: SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier Multi-Glycan
3/14SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier Multi-Glycan
- Best for: Delivering intense moisture; plumping the skin; and minimising the look of fine lines
- Key ingredients: High-molecular weight hyaluronic acid, proxylane, lactobacillus.
- Size: 30 ml
- Tester: Fiona Embleton, Glamour's associate beauty director
Why we love it: Looking to invest in a premium and expert-recommended serum for maximum hydration? Say less. The SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan is a next-gen formula that's known and loved by dermatologists and beauty editors alike. Offering a high concentration of 1.3% pure hyaluronic acid and 12% proxylane post-biotic ferment, this hard-working concoction is proven to keep your skin hydrated for up to 48 hours. As a bonus, this serum can also help visibly plump up your complexion, improve facial contours, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It’s also 100% fragrance-free, making it perfectly suitable for those of us with sensitive skin or sensitive eyes. When testing, Embelton loved how weightless it felt when applying and how quickly it absorbed into the skin, leaving it radiant and soothed.
Best for Mature Skin: Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
4/14Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
- Best for: Reducing the appearance of fine lines and deeper-set wrinkles
- Key ingredients: Expression line MiniProtein, growth factor MiniProtein, 30% multi-peptide complex.
- Size: 30 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Meet Medik8’s latest youth-boosting innovation that comes in form of a lightweight and hydrating serum, Liquid Peptides Advanced MP. Featuring the brand’s innovative Dual MiniProteins technology, this formula is clinically proven to visibly reduce the look of expression lines in as little as 10 minutes (yes, really) and minimize the look of the more stubborn, deeper-set wrinkles in just eight weeks. It also helps stimulate collagen and elastin production by improving the skin’s structure at its foundation, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin over prolonged use. “I admit that as a 26-year-old, I don’t have a lot of wrinkle-related concerns; however, I’ve been getting more and more aware of my nasolabial folds over the past few years. After using Medik8’s new Liquid Peptides Advanced formula for around four weeks, I noticed that they started to look a lot less pronounced and the overall texture of my skin has visibly improved,” says Primbet.
Best With Peptides: Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
5/14Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
- Best for: Giving your skin a glowy, radiant shine
- Key ingredients: Peptides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, marula oil
- Size: 50 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Everyone knows that Hailey Bieber is the queen of dewy, radiant skin. Her not so secret weapon is the Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid, which is a lightweight gel-serum that’s formulated to help retain moisture, and plump and nourish the skin without resulting in any unwanted irritation. Perfect for reviving dull skin, this multipurpose formula is bound to help deliver lasting hydration while giving your skin that glazed look. “Rhode never fails to impress me, and the Peptide Glazing Fluid was the very first product that made me fall in love with Hailey’s skin care range. It’s become my hero product that delivers all the dew, hydration and bounce,” says Primbet.
Best Hydrating Serum-Toner Hybrid: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner
6/14Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner
- Best for: Strengthening your skin barrier and soothing the skin
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, panthenol, glycerin
- Size: 150 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: A smooth, milky serum that's designed specifically to help strengthen your natural skin barrier and help it regain its luminosity is simply too good to ignore. Formulated with ceramides, panthenol, and glycerin, it makes easy work of giving your skin the hydrating boost it craves. “I always welcome any skin care product that cuts down my skin care regimen, particularly when it comes to those rushed morning routines. Having used it for nearly a year now, I’ve made this serum-toner hybrid product from Dr. Jart my go-to formula for looking after my sensitized skin barrier. It has a calming milky texture (a bit on the thicker side) that melts into my skin within seconds, delivering all the hydration that it so desperately craves,” says Primbet.
Best for Barrier Support: The Ordinary Soothing and Barrier Support Serum
7/14The Ordinary Soothing and Barrier Support Serum
- Best for: Reducing redness and treating sensitive skin
- Key ingredients: Bisabolol, vitamin B12, gallic acid derivatives
- Size: 30 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Having gone viral for its pink colour, this soothing formula from The Ordinary is not to be underestimated. Made with sugar-based humectants that help lock in moisture, this barrier-supporting serum contains bisabolol and gallic acid, both of which are there to soothe your complexion and alleviate unwanted flare-ups, plus calm redness. Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. “I’m a firm believer that quality skin care doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag, and this serum from The Ordinary is proof. I initially started using it to calm my rosacea flare-ups, but it wasn’t long until I realised that this formula is one of the best affordable hydrating serums I’ve tested. Within just four weeks of continuous use, I noticed that my stubborn dry patches were entirely gone,” says Primbet.
Best Nonomedogenic: Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum
Courtesy of brand8/14Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum
- Best for: Achieving healthy, glowing skin; prepping the skin before makeup
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, cacao seed extract, Japanese goldthread root
- Size: 50 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Known for its minimalist makeup products, Merit also offers some seriously good skin care formulas, including the cult-favourite Great Skin Instant Glow Serum. Formulated to help effectively plump and hydrate the skin, this skin-loving serum combines four types of hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeply through multiple layers of the skin and deliver long-lasting moisture. And if that wasn’t enough, this noncomedogenic formula also comes infused with the likes of niacinamide, cacao seed extract and Japanese goldthread—all of which make easy work of supporting your skin’s natural moisture barrier. “I adore this serum for its ability to brighten and illuminate my complexion before applying makeup and looking after my skin barrier all at the same time,” says Primbet.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Serum
9/14Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Serum
- Best for: Plumping and firming
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, refined bilberry seed, biomimetic hexapeptide-9
- Size: 28 g
- Tested by: Sophie Cockett
Why we love it: While it’s certainly not the cheapest item on this list, this hydrating serum from Murad is definitely worth the investment. Filled to the brim with restorative peptides, it’s designed to plump and firm your complexion while giving you a much healthier moisture barrier. “I can’t tell you how obsessed I am with Murad’s Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Serum. I’m waxing lyrical about it to anyone who will listen. For the past three weeks, I’ve been using it every day alongside the moisturiser from the same range—and the overnight mask three times a week—and my skin has never looked plumper. I’d say that’s the biggest benefit: Thanks to the inclusion of biomimetic hexapeptide-9 and nourishing bilberry seed oil, my skin looks plumper, juicier and more hydrated than it has in months,” says Cockett.
Best for Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation: La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Intense Anti-Dark Spot Serum
10/14La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Intense Anti-Dark Spot Serum
- Best for: Visibly fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation while simultaneously prioritising skin hydration
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, glycerin, citric acid
- Size: 30 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: La Roche-Posay is known for its hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic and quality skin care formulas, universally admired by both dermatologists and aestheticians. Made to help visibly minimise the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation, this niacinamide serum is definitely one of the most hard-working and innovative formulas out there. It hydrates and even provides a gentle exfoliating effect for smoother texture and a more even-looking complexion. “As someone with PCOS, I’m no stranger to dealing with post-acne marks and dark spots. Having started using the La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Intense serum around six months ago, I noticed major results just four weeks in. My skin tone has become more even, my complexion more hydrated, and my acne scars have faded to the point that I’d forgotten they were there in the first place,” says Primbet.
Best for Dry Skin: Caudalie Vinosource-Hydra SOS Thirst-Quenching Serum
11/14Caudalie Vinosource-Hydra SOS Thirst-Quenching Serum
- Best for: Replenishing and reviving dull, dry skin
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, organic grape water, polyphenols
- Size: 30 ml
- Tester: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Tired of dealing with dehydrated and sensitised skin? Well, this Caudalie serum isn’t called thirst-quenching for nothing. It’s lightweight, noncomedogenic, fast-absorbing, and oil-free, making it suitable for all skin types in need of a hydration boost (including oily skin and combination skin). The best part is that it sinks into the skin without leaving any unwanted residue or feeling sticky. “Caudalie skin care has always been top tier in my book, and this Vinosource-Hydra SOS Thirst-Quenching Serum is easily one of my favourite hydration saviors. I love its lightweight texture and just how quickly it absorbs into my skin without feeling greasy, leaving it velvety-soft, supple and well-hydrated,” says Denise Primbet, Glamour’s beauty contributor.
Best for Brightening: Tatcha the Brightening Serum
12/14Tatcha the Brightening Serum
- Best for: Brightening and evening out the skin tone
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C, Japanese plum and ferulic acid, pro-glutathione antioxidant booster, glycerin
- Size: 30 ml
Why we love it: One of the latest launches from Tatcha, this brightening serum is a must for anyone looking for a formula that will help address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone all while focusing on that much-needed hydration. Although it does come at an expensive price point, trust us when we tell you that given its quality formulation, it’s well worth the splurge. Apart from its brightening and antioxidant benefits, it also helps achieve firmer skin and improve elasticity without causing any flare-ups or irritation. Infused with 12-hour time-release vitamin C, this formula also features Japanese plum and ferulic acid to help protect your skin from free radical damage. Suitable for all skin types.
Best Plumping Serum: Summer Fridays Jet Lag Deep Hydration Serum
13/14Summer Fridays Jet Lag Deep Hydration Serum
- Best for: Plumping the skin; delivering lasting moisture to combat dryness
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, colloidal oatmeal, aloe, arnica
- Size: 30 ml
Why we love it: If you’re after a fool-proof everyday hydrating serum that will instantly quench your skin’s thirst, you’ll love this simple yet effective formula from Summer Fridays. Featuring the consistency of a gel serum, the Jet Lag Deep Hydration Serum is filled to the brim with moisture-attracting components and potent humectants such as hyaluronic acid, squalane and glycerin. And it doesn’t end there. This lightweight formula also soothes the skin with the help of such ingredients as colloidal oatmeal, aloe, and arnica. Use it as the penultimate step of your routine before finishing it up with an equally hydrating moisturiser and an SPF, and you’re all set.
Best for Acne Prone: CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
14/14CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: Ensuring lasting hydration; soothing dry patches
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin B5, glycerin
- Size: 30 ml
Why we love it: As far as effective skin care products go, CeraVe is one of the most trusted brands around. So it really comes as no surprise that its gel-cream hyaluronic acid serum has found its way onto this list. Powered by three different ceramides as well as hyaluronic acid in the form of sodium hyaluronate, this serum is refreshing and effective—affordable to boot. Thanks to the brand’s patented MVE Technology, this gel-cream formula has continuous delivery, which ensures that your skin maintains optimal hydration levels throughout the day. Suitable to use as part of both your morning and night-time routines, this serum is suitable for all skin types (yes, even sensitive and acne-prone skin). Simply apply directly after cleansing (or after your go-to toner) and finish up by using your favourite moisturiser. A must.
