12 Best Hydrating Serums For Dry Skin, Recommended By An Expert – 2024
Bid your farewell to the dullness and dryness with these moisturizing formulas.
Dr. SchwarzburgMD 
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.H... more
shiboli chakrabortiCommerce Editor Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
krati darakAssociate Commerce Editor Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
A hydrating serum provides nourishment and moisture to dry skin. The best hydrating serums for dry skin plump your skin. They work wonders on flakes, peeling, rough patches, and dry skin. These serums are incorporated with high-concentration of active ingredients that provide long-lasting moisturization and are thoroughly absorbed by the skin. Generally, these serums are lightweight and help improve fine lines, textures, and wrinkles. In addition, the hydrating serums also protect against harsh elements in the environment, like pollution, dust, and more. Check out our list of some of the best hydrating serums for dry skin available online curated carefully after examining several formulations and reviews. Keep scrolling to take your pick!
In This Article
The 12 Best Hydrating Serums For Dry Skin
1. Best Hypoallergenic:Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum
The Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum is the best serum option for dry, irritated skin. Its lightweight formula instantly absorbs into your skin and gives it a boost of hydration. Its nourishing blend of triple oat complex and oat kernel oil repair the skin barrier and leave your skin feeling ultra soft and supple. Further, this dermatologist-recommended product does not clog your pores and effortlessly removes makeup, if used as a cleansing product.
Key ingredients: Prebiotic oat flour, oat kernel oil.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Phthalate-free
- Artificial dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Clinically tested
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- None
2. Best Vegan:Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Aging Serum
The 100% vegan Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Aging Serum is a strong humectant serum for dehydrated skin that acts like a magnet to attract moisture to the skin. It restores elasticity while reducing wrinkles and fine lines to combat signs of premature aging. This nourishing skincare product penetrates your skin to provide deep hydration to brighten and plump the complexion. Its plant-based formula has a lightweight feel and does not clog pores. In addition, it protects the skin against environmental aggressors like harmful sun rays, pollution, and cold winds, which cause irritation and dehydration. It is one of the best serums for winter skincare.
Dr. Schwarzburg, MD, and Cosmetic Physician at Skinly Aesthetics, says, “Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body and serves its purpose by hydrating the skin and lubricating the joints. Commonly used in serums such as Asterwood Naturals hydrating serum and other skin care products, hyaluronic acid is great for hydrating the skin and can benefit any skin type in a variety of ways.”
Key ingredients: Organic hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Anti-wrinkle
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Sulfate-free
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Sticky
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 3,785 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
3. Best UV Protection:Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops
The Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops is an ultra-lightweight, non-comedogenic, effective moisturizing serum that makes your skin feel soft and renewed. It does not include emulsifiers and uses microfluidic technology to retain the finest varieties of Abyssinian and hibiscus oils. It provides rapid absorption upon application for more vibrant, healthy-looking skin over time. The skin’s natural ability to retain moisture is supported by omega-9 and omega-6 fatty acids, which also shield the skin against free radicals, UV ray damage, and other environmental hazards. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can gradually be reduced with time with the aid of vitamin B3 and additional antioxidant protection. It is dermatologist-tested, ophthalmologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and suitable for use around the eyes.
Key ingredients: Vitamin B3, Abyssinian oil, and Hibiscus oil
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Smooths skin
- Offers UV protection
- Lightweight formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Emulsifier-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum Best Hypoallergenic | Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Aging Serum Best Vegan | Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops Best UV Protection | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive, Dry | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Oily |
| Dimensions | 1.63 x 3 x 3.88 inches | - | 1.4 x 1.4 x 4.8 inches |
| Weight | 3.52 Ounces. | - | 1 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 10,937 | 3,785 | - |
| Price | $9.77 | $13.99 | - |
4. Best Hydrating:CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The patented MVE ingredient-delivery technology featured in the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum ensures the continuous release of moisturizing ingredients to provide long-lasting hydration to the skin by restoring skin moisture levels. This lightweight serum has a smooth gel-like texture that absorbs quickly and can be worn under makeup and other skin products. The high concentration of hyaluronic acid locks in moisture to keep the skin soft and smooth. The soothing presence of vitamin B and three essential ceramides in this skin hydration solution maintains your skin’s natural barrier. Check out the reviewer’s experience of using the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum in this YouTube video.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, 3 Essential ceramides, and Vitamin B5
Pros
- Lightweight
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- No animal testing
Cons
None
Did You Know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 1,437 reviews claiming its efficacy.
5. Best For Sensitive Skin:Cetaphil Deep Hydration 48 Hour Activation Serum
The exclusive HydroSensitiv complex used to formulate the Cetaphil Deep Hydration 48 Hour Activation Serum combines moisturizing ingredients that lock in skin moisture to deliver dynamic hydration for 48 hours. It is specially designed as a hydrating facial serum for sensitive skin to replenish and restore skin health effectively. You can layer this lightweight serum under lotion or cream. This dermatologist-tested serum is enriched with hyaluronic acid, blue daisy, sunflower seed oil, vitamins B5 and E to defend against five signs of skin sensitivity, including irritation, dryness, tightness, roughness, and weakened skin barrier. If you want to know more about the results, take a look at this review on YouTube.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Blue Daisy, Vitamins B5, and E
Pros
- Quick absorbing
- Soothing
- Lightweight
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Clinically proven to be gentle on sensitive skin
- No animal testing
Cons
None
6. Best Organic:Cosmedica Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The organic Cosmedica Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum has a hypoallergenic formula that rejuvenates old skin cells to leave your skin visibly soft and smooth. The restorative facial serum is enriched with pure hyaluronic acid, which provides dry and dull skin with intense, long-lasting moisture. As a result, it diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation, and fine lines while tightening skin pores and fading age spots. In addition, this AM/PM serum delivers a natural glow to the skin to make it look youthful and bright.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Anti-wrinkle
- Anti-aging
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Sticky
7. Best Anti-Aging:Eva Naturals Vitamin C Plus Skin Clearing Serum
The anti-aging Eva Naturals Vitamin C Plus Skin Clearing Serum is packed with potent ingredients that support healthy skin and combat dry facial conditions. It is enriched with Vitamin C to protect the skin from UV rays and reduce hyperpigmentation. In addition, this exfoliating serum uses the power of retinol and salicylic acid to cleanse open pores, fight acne breakouts, and promote the growth of healthy skin cells. Hyaluronic acid in this serum offers intense hydration for smooth and youthful skin, while niacinamide reduces inflammation to soothe troubled skin.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C
Pros
- Anti-acne
- UV ray protectant
- Anti-aging
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Strong scent
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 12,463 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
8. Best Brightening:Tree of Life Vitamin C Serum
The brightening Tree of Life Vitamin C Serum is enriched with antioxidants to reduce the appearance of age spots, fill in wrinkles and give a youthful glow to the skin. This rich and creamy radiant skin serum is designed to soothe and moisturize the skin with just a few drops. In addition, this dermatologist-tested serum is packed with other super ingredients like organic aloe, jojoba oil, vitamins C and E, and witch hazel that help minimize pores, hydrate, and smoothen your skin.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Non-greasy
- Dermatologically-tested
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Strong fragrance
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 8,246 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
9. Best For Dry Skin:InstaNatural Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The skin balancing InstaNatural Hyaluronic Acid Serum offers lightweight moisture and deep hydration to the skin. The dry skin treatment formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to reduce the appearance and fine line, discoloration, and wrinkles. The addition of aloe vera, jojoba oil, and green tea extract to its formula reduces signs of irritation and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier. This lightweight beauty serum for dry skin provides instant relief from dry, flaky skin and rough patches on the face. It layers well under makeup and moisturizers.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Lightweight
- Anti-aging
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Synthetic dye-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Petroleum-free
- PEGs-free
- SLS-free
- Allergy tested
- Visible results in 6 weeks
Cons
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 4,349 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
10. Best Lightweight:L’Oreal Paris Revitalift
The quick-acting L’Oreal Paris Revitalift is infused with 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid. This serum offers instant relief from dry and dehydration, leaving your skin firmer and more radiant with a dewy glow. It plumps your skin from inside to lock in moisture and create a smooth feel. The addition of vitamin C to this repairing skin serum formula gives antioxidant properties to reduce fine lines and boost elasticity. This lightweight serum has a sheer finish that layers well under makeup and can be used as a primer.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C
Pros
- Lightweight
- Anti-aging
- Quick absorbing
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Synthetic dye-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 2,528 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
11. Best Hypoallergenic:Asterwood Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Aging Serum
The Asterwood Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Aging Serum delays skin aging with the gentleness that your sensitive skin deserves. It is infused with pure hyaluronic acid that draws moisture into your skin and seals the spaces in between your cells to prevent moisture loss. This skin repair serum helps replenish your skin barrier and improves its moisture retention abilities. This serum not only fights skin aging but also helps keep minor sensitive skin issues like inflammation and redness at bay. After a few uses, you find your skin naturally plumper, hydrated, and calm.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 3,785 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
12. Best Oil-Free:Vichy Mineral 89
The dermatologist-tested Vichy Mineral 89 delivers a daily dose of hydration to the skin to keep it plump and supple. This hydrating serum is enriched with pure hyaluronic acid and 15-mineral rich Vichy volcanic water to strengthen and restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This quick-absorbing serum protects your skin from environmental aggressors like the sun, pollution, and stress that cause premature aging. In addition, it has been clinically tested by various dermatologists and improves skin elasticity and fills in wrinkles to reveal a luminous healthy complexion.
Key ingredients: Pure hyaluronic acid and Vichy volcanic water
Pros
- Lightweight
- Quick absorbing
- UV ray protectant
- Boost elasticity
- Strengthens skin’s barrier
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
- Visible results after a month
Cons
- Sticky
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 21,095 rave reviews on Amazon.
Finding the perfect hydrating serum to combat dry skin issues and brighten your complexion can offer a great start to your skincare routine. However, remember to look for a scientifically formulated product with the right ingredients and avoid skin issues. Scroll down to follow our tips and guidelines given below to help you choose the best hydrating serum for dry skin.
How To Choose The Best Hydrating Serum For Dry Skin
- Ingredient list: The most important factor to keep in mind is the ingredients in the serum. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, niacinamide, aloe vera, and ceramides to soften your skin. In addition, vitamin-rich serums are also beneficial to your skin.
- Allergies: Dry skin is usually sensitive and can be prone to allergies and irritations. Be sure to avoid serums that contain alcohol and parabens, as these substances may trigger allergic reactions.
- Texture: Serums are usually applied as a thin layer as the first product to your skin. Since you are likely to use other products after this layer, make sure the texture is light enough for layering.
Infographic: Skin Hydrating Serums: What Ingredients To Avoid And How To Apply Them
Serums are excellent lubricators that help nourish your skin besides hydrating it. They help you achieve glowing skin. The infographic below discusses how to best apply hydrating serums and what ingredients you must avoid if you have dry skin. Take a look! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Dirt, pollution, harmful sun rays and various other factors contribute to making you skin dry and dull. Rough patches, flakes, or peeling become common concerns for such skin types. Your skin therefore, requires the best hydrating serums to address the dryness issues. The active ingredients in these products moisturize your skin, minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. The Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum repairs the skin barrier and is suitable for sensitive and dry skin, while the Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Aging Serum is a light-weight formula that enhances skin elasticity.Try the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum for a gel-like consistency that quickly absorbs for long-term hydration. In addition, some of these hydrating serums have non-greasy formulas, while others improve the complexion. They are mostly devoid of harmful chemicals and make the skin smooth and soft. Although you might want to steer clear of sticky serums as they may cause discomfort.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborty, is a certified skin care coach and loves reviewing beauty products for her readers. After researching a wide range of products and scanning through their ingredients, she has compiled this list of the best hydrating serums for dry skin. They are also endorsed by reviews posted by users on various online platforms. These serums help prevent flakes, peeling, and rough patches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are serums good for dry skin?
Yes, including a hydrating serum into your skincare routine, is one of the best things to resolve dry skin conditions. They give instant results and bring relief from flakes and dry patches. In addition, they act as magnets for moisture to keep the skin soft and plump.
Which hydrating serum is best?
Hydrating serums that are enriched with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and fatty acids hydrate the skin best as they draw in the moisture from the air and provide long-lasting hydration. In addition, they feel light on your skin, as they only require a thin application and do not feel greasy.
How often should you use a hydrating serum on dry skin?
Hydrating serums are an excellent addition to any skin care routine for dry skin. They provide an instant burst of hydration and moisture, treating dry and patchy skin, improving rough skin texture, and softening the skin. You can use it as frequently as you like on a daily basis. But the recommended way is to use them twice, in your morning and evening routine.
How do I use a hydrating serum on dry skin?
• Cleanse your face with a face wash.
• Use a toner on your skin to prepare it for receiving all the goodness from the serum.
• Apply a few drops of the serum all over your face and neck.
• Seal the deal with a moisturizer.
How long does it take to see results from using a hydrating serum for dry skin?
You can notice a significant difference in your dry skin after just 6 to 8 weeks of regular use of a hydrating serum. You will feel your skin hydrated, well-nourished, soft, and plump.
Is serum or cream better for dry skin?
A combination of serum and moisturizer is the best for dry skin. A serum has smaller molecules that are potent enough to deliver intense hydration into the skin. A moisturizer on the other hand prevents the serum from escaping your skin by strengthening the skin barrier, thus replenishing dry skin.
Is hyaluronic acid serum good for dry skin?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid, when used on dry skin, can hydrate it intensely. It can repair dry and cracked skin and prevent early signs of aging.
