Quick List - Top Hydrating Serums
L'Oreal Paris
Infused With 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid for Plump and Hydrated Skin
Happy Skin
Delivers a Refreshing Hydration Boost With Hyaluronic Acid Capsules
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
Hazel is a content planner and writer dedicated to simplifying your online shopping experience. With a passion for research and a keen eye for quality, she digs into the details to bring you trustworthy and insightful buying guides you can rely on.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
A hydrating serum delivers active ingredients to the skin, while a moisturizer creates a barrier to lock in moisture.
A hydrating serum and a moisturizer may seem similar, but they serve different roles in your skincare routine. Here’s how they differ:
Hydrating serums – Lightweight and fast-absorbing; deliver active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin deep into the skin to boost hydration from within
Moisturizers – Thicker and creamier; seal in moisture and create a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin
For best results, use a hydrating serum to draw in moisture, then follow up with a moisturizer to lock it in for long-lasting hydration. This is especially helpful in the Philippines' hot, humid climate.
Your skin type plays a big role in how effective a hydrating serum will be. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, selecting the right formula ensures you get the most out of its moisturizing benefits.
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are excellent choices for dry skin because they attract and lock in moisture.
When you have dry skin, the key to maintaining smooth, plump skin is choosing hydrating serums with powerful moisture-locking ingredients. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are two of the most effective ingredients, as they draw moisture into the skin and help retain it, preventing dehydration. These humectants work by attracting water molecules from the environment and deeper layers of your skin, keeping the surface hydrated and revitalized throughout the day.
In addition to hydration, look for serums that provide a boost of nourishment. Dry skin tends to lose moisture quickly, so it is important to find formulas that offer both instant and long-lasting effects. Glycerin, for example, helps your skin hold onto water while also softening rough patches.
Those with oily skin should choose lightweight, water-based serums with niacinamide and panthenol for hydration without added shine or heaviness.
Finding the right hydration for oily skin can be tricky, but water-based serums offer an ideal solution. These lightweight formulas hydrate without clogging pores, making them perfect for oily skin types. They provide essential moisture without adding heaviness or extra shine, keeping your skin balanced and comfortable throughout the day.
Niacinamide and panthenol are key ingredients for oily skin. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production while supporting the skin’s natural barrier, promoting a balanced, healthy complexion. Panthenol, on the other hand, delivers lightweight hydration and soothing benefits, keeping the skin soft and comfortable without the heaviness of traditional creams.
Serums with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are perfect for combination skin, managing dryness and oil without disrupting the skin's natural balance.
Combination skin requires a hydrating serum that can address both dryness and oiliness without disrupting the skin’s natural balance. Look for serums that combine humectants like hyaluronic acid with oil-regulating ingredients such as niacinamide. This combination helps hydrate dry areas while minimizing excess sebum, especially around the T-zone.
To get the most out of your hydrating serum, go for lightweight formulas that deliver moisture without clogging pores. These serums help balance your skin so it feels comfortable, smooth, and well-cared for throughout the day.
Alcohol and fragrance can irritate sensitive skin, so it is best to choose serums that are free from these ingredients.
Soothing and gentle hydration can go a long way for sensitive skin types. Choosing a hydrating serum specifically formulated without alcohol or added fragrance helps reduce the chances of irritation, redness, or allergic reactions. These skin-soothing formulas focus on nourishing your skin barrier without introducing harsh or unnecessary ingredients. Look for terms like “sensitive skin-friendly,” “hypoallergenic,” or “dermatologist-tested” to ensure it meets your skin’s needs.
Hydrating serums with calming ingredients like aloe vera or centella asiatica can also support skin repair while delivering moisture. Since sensitive skin can react unpredictably, opt for minimalist formulations with short ingredient lists.
Multi-functional hydrating serums tackle concerns like dryness, dullness, and uneven texture all at once, making them a great addition to your skincare routine.
A multi-tasking serum doesn't just save you time; it also enhances your skincare results by tackling several concerns in one step. Many hydrating serums now come with added benefits like brightening ingredients, such as vitamin C, or anti-aging components, such as peptides. These combinations not only boost hydration but also improve skin tone and support collagen production.
Look for hydrating serums that combine moisture-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid with targeted ingredients suited to your skin goals. For instance, if you're looking to minimize fine lines, consider a serum that pairs hydration with retinol or peptides. Whether you're targeting fine lines or hyperpigmentation, choosing a serum with multi-function hydration ensures you're getting more value with every application.
A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum layers smoothly with skincare and makeup, avoiding pilling or discomfort.
Smooth and seamless skincare application often depends on how well your products layer together. Hydrating serums with lightweight, fluid, or gel-like textures are ideal for this, as they absorb quickly and do not interfere with other steps in your routine. If you are prepping your skin for makeup or layering sunscreen and moisturizers, the right texture helps everything stay in place and work effectively.
Thicker serums may feel rich but can cause pilling or discomfort when combined with other skincare products. If you follow a multi-step regimen, go for hydrating serums specifically labeled as "fast-absorbing" or "non-sticky" to ensure better compatibility with the rest of your skincare lineup.
Choose hydrating serums in airtight, opaque packaging to protect active ingredients from air and light, preserving their effectiveness.
Hydrating serums often contain delicate active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, which can lose their efficacy when exposed to air and light. That is why it is important to choose serums packaged in airtight, opaque containers. These types of packaging prevent light and air from reaching the product, effectively preserving its integrity and ensuring that you are getting the maximum benefit with every use.
The right packaging can also help prevent contamination. Pumps or droppers are great options because they reduce the chances of introducing bacteria or other impurities into the serum. This not only extends the shelf life of the product but also keeps it hygienic, allowing for a smoother and more effective skincare routine.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best For | Hydrating Ingredients | Alcohol-Free | Fragrance-Free | Consistency | Other Noteable Ingredients | Opaque Packaging | Net Weight | |||||
1 | L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum | ![]() | Infused With 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid for Plump and Hydrated Skin | All Skin Types | Hyaluronic Acid | Water Jelly Serum | None | 30 mL | ||||
2 | Happy Skin Hyaluronic Acid + B3 Boost Capsule Serum | ![]() | Delivers a Refreshing Hydration Boost With Hyaluronic Acid Capsules | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin | Hyaluronic Acid、Ceramides | unknown | unknown | Water Jelly Serum | Niacinamide、Centella Asiatica Extract | 100 mL | ||
3 | Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum | ![]() | A Lightweight Water-Based Serum Suitable For Daily Use | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin | Hyaluronic Acid | unknown | Water-based Serum | None | 30 mL | |||
4 | COSRX The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum | ![]() | Has 3% Sodium Hyaluronate To Help Combat Skin Dehydration | Dry Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Normal Skin | Hyaluronic Acid、Ceramides | unknown | unknown | Water-based Serum | None | 20 mL | ||
5 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule | ![]() | A Great Serum for Sensitive Skin | All Skin Types | Glycerin | unknown | Water-based Serum | Madagascan Centella Asiatica Extract | 100 mL | |||
6 | Klued Multi-Hyaluronic Acid Complex Serum | ![]() | Contains a Multi-hyaluronic Acid Complex That Targets Various Layers of the Skin | All Skin Types | Hyaluronic Acid、Glycerin | unknown | unknown | Water Jelly Serum | None | 30 mL | ||
7 | Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum | ![]() | Dermatologist-Recommended for Instantly Rejuvenating and Smoothing Dry Skin | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin | Hyaluronic Acid、Glycerin | unknown | Water-based Serum | Panthenol | 30 mL | |||
8 | Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum | ![]() | Contains Green Tea Extract That Can Hydrate the Skin | Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Dehydrated Skin | Hyaluronic Acid | unknown | Gel-type Essence | Green Tea Seed Extract、Niacinamide | 30 mL | |||
9 | Torriden Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum | ![]() | 5 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Effortlessly Hydrates For Improved Skin Elasticity | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin | Hyaluronic Acid | unknown | unknown | Water-based Serum | Panthenol、Allantoin、Madecassoside | 50 mL | ||
10 | Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Serum | ![]() | Harnesses the Power of Camellia for Radiant, Resilient Skin | All Skin Types | Glycerin、Camellia Oil、Camellia Petal Extract | Gel-type Essence | Power Fermented Camellia+、Camellia Leaf Extract | 30 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
If you're serious about your anti-aging routine but don't want to break the bank, a lot of people swear this hyaluronic acid serum is a total steal! It's super lightweight, soaks in fast, and leaves your skin feeling so soft and plump – some even say it really helps with those fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it can make your pores look smaller, and for many, it's become a holy grail product they keep repurchasing in the bigger size!
Best For | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid |
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Consistency | Water Jelly Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | None |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Ideal for oily skin, this gel absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel. Many users say it’s an affordable yet effective option, with some noticing visible improvements, like smaller-looking pores and a brighter complexion, as early as the next day. Plus, a little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective choice.
Best For | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid、Ceramides |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Consistency | Water Jelly Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | Niacinamide、Centella Asiatica Extract |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
You know that one skincare product you just keep coming back to? For a lot of people, this is it! They love how lightweight it feels and how it leaves their skin super hydrated and plump. The 30ml size is great for travel, and with so many repeat buyers, it’s clear this one’s a crowd favorite.
Best For | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | |
Consistency | Water-based Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | None |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Got dry skin that needs some serious moisture? You might want to check this out! People who use it rave about how deeply hydrating it is, and many have made it a staple in their routine for almost a year. It's got Vitamin E to nourish your skin, helps with firmness, and really makes your skin feel super soft and plump.
Best For | Dry Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Normal Skin |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid、Ceramides |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Consistency | Water-based Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | None |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 20 mL |
Made with 100% Madagascar Centella Asiatica for ultimate soothing
Specifically targets sensitive, irritated, or stressed-out skin
Lightweight formula—perfect for layering with the rest of your skincare
If your oily skin tends to act up, this might be your new go-to! A lot of people say it’s super calming and sinks in fast without causing any irritation. Many have noticed their skin looking more glowy and feeling extra soft after using it. Some even love it so much they’ve been using it for weeks—and are already planning to recommend it to friends!
Best For | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Glycerin |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | |
Consistency | Water-based Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | Madagascan Centella Asiatica Extract |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
This serum is a total game-changer for that soft, plump skin everyone’s after! It hydrates like a dream, and many say they can actually see and feel the difference in their skin’s texture. It absorbs super quickly and leaves a healthy, natural glow. And for something that works this well, the price makes it even better!
Best For | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid、Glycerin |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Consistency | Water Jelly Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | None |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Got sensitive skin? You might want to check this out! It's fragrance-free, so it's super gentle, and it absorbs into your skin in a flash, leaving it feeling really smooth and soft. Lots of people love how it improves their skin's texture and appearance over time, and the fact that it's non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic gives extra peace of mind. It's become a go-to for many looking for effective, gentle care.
Best For | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid、Glycerin |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | |
Consistency | Water-based Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | Panthenol |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
For those seeking a lightweight and non-greasy hydrating serum, this product is a popular choice. It's known to absorb rapidly, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and moisturized all day long. Many users have experienced smoother and more radiant skin with consistent use over a couple of weeks. You can also put makeup over it easily!
Best For | Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Dehydrated Skin |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | |
Consistency | Gel-type Essence |
Other Noteable Ingredients | Green Tea Seed Extract、Niacinamide |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
If your skin's been feeling a little parched or rough, you might find a real friend in this product. It's so refreshing when you put it on, and it really does make your skin feel softer and more supple. For those of us with dry or normal skin, it's like a little hug for our face. What's great is that it hydrates without making you feel slick, and it gives your skin this lovely, healthy glow. It's also a champ at keeping that moisture locked in, so your skin stays happy and hydrated longer.
Best For | All Skin Types、Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid |
Alcohol-Free | unknown |
Fragrance-Free | unknown |
Consistency | Water-based Serum |
Other Noteable Ingredients | Panthenol、Allantoin、Madecassoside |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
This Shiseido serum is described by many as a great discovery, especially for its light feel and quick visible improvements. Even for sensitive skin types, it seems to be a great option! Often bought based on positive word-of-mouth, users appreciate how seamlessly it integrates into their current skincare regimen. Many also enjoy the fragrance and the healthy glow they've noticed, even after just a week of use!
Best For | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Hydrating Ingredients | Glycerin、Camellia Oil、Camellia Petal Extract |
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Consistency | Gel-type Essence |
Other Noteable Ingredients | Power Fermented Camellia+、Camellia Leaf Extract |
Opaque Packaging | |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelie Chua.
Hydrating serums are typically used twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, for optimal skin hydration and benefits. However, factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and environmental conditions can influence how often you should apply it. For dry or dehydrated skin, more frequent application may be beneficial, while oily or humid environments might require less frequent use.
Yes, you can use a hydrating serum even if you have acne-prone skin. It is a common misconception that acne-prone skin does not need hydration, but in fact, many people with acne also experience dehydration. Anti-acne treatments, such as retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, often dry out the skin, which makes using a hydrating serum essential to restore moisture. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic serums that provide hydration without clogging pores.
Yes, hydrating serums are suitable for teenagers, especially those experiencing dryness or dehydration due to environmental factors, skincare routines, or hormonal changes. Teen skin can benefit from gentle, water-based serums that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or panthenol.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: L'Oreal Paris|Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
No. 2: Happy Skin|Hyaluronic Acid + B3 Boost Capsule Serum
No. 3: Good Molecules|Hyaluronic Acid Serum
No. 4: COSRX |The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum
No. 5: SKIN1004|Madagascar Centella Ampoule
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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