I've always struggled with hormonal cystic acne [1] and superoily skin [2], which usually left me with severe dry patches. I could never find a moisturiser that felt right on my face. What I didn't realise until doing a lot of research was that I needed more moisture. That's when I learned about hyaluronic acid [3], a chemical known for its hydrating properties. It acts as a filler for fine lines and wrinkles. It also has the ability to hold 1,000 times its water weight, making this a smart way to lock in moisture and stop producing oil. Using it changed my skin for the better by clearing it up.
If you've been interested in trying it out, you don't have to cash out hundreds of dollars. You can find this chemical in so many drugstore brands [4]. Check them out ahead.
Derma E Hydrating Day Crème With Hyaluronic Acid
For the ultimate antiageing fight, try this Derma E Hydrating Day Crème With Hyaluronic Acid [5] ($25). It also contains antioxidants, green tea, vitamins C and E, and soothing aloe.
La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Riche Skin Treatment
Formulated to help your skin retain water, this hyaluronic-acid-infused La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Skin Treatment [6] ($36) feels good on your skin throughout the day.
Avène PhysioLift Day Smoothing Emulsion
In addition to hyaluronic acid, this Avène PhysioLift Smoothing Emulsion [7] ($48) cream is also enriched with vitamin E and natural thermal spring water and is made to soothe, soften, and lift.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
This oil-free and fast-absorbing Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream [8] ($20) works on all skin types. It's mixed with olive extract for an extra moisture boost.
Nip + Fab Hyaluronic Fix Moisturiser
Not just for your face, use hyaluronic acid from head to toe with this Nip + Fab Hyaluronic Fix Moisturiser [9] ($6) for plump skin everywhere.
Vichy Idealia Skin Sleep Night Recovery Gel Balm
Replump your skin with this Vichy Idealia Skin Sleep Gel [10] ($36). It contains pure caffeine, micro-exfoliating LHA, and vitamin B3 to help revive your skin cells.
L'Oréal Hydra Genius Water Cream
Mixed with aloe water, this L'Oréal Hydra Genius Water Cream [11] ($18) will feel like a soothing facial every day. Use it before your makeup and at night for great results.
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum
The brand touts that 92 percent of users saw improved firmness with this No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum [12] ($44). With results like those, you'll want to try it for yourself.
Lumene Valo Glow Boost Essence
Formulated with two different types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, this Lumene Valo Glow Essence [13] ($25) will help brighten your skin for a radiant look.
Garnier Skin Active Moisture Bomb Daily Moisturiser SPF 30
Use this Garnier Skin Active Daily Moisturiser [14] ($17) first thing every morning, and with the added benefit of SPF, you won't need to worry about sun damage.
L'Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Cream
This L'Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Cream [15] ($25) helps keep your skin super hydrated. The added benefit of fibroxyl, which comes from rye seed extract, will help your skin feel extra soft.
CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion
For everyday use, try this CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion [16] ($17) before applying your makeup. Enriched with invisible zinc to keep your skin protected from the sun's harmful rays, this will keep your skin from getting dry. Try its evening cream for a night treatment.
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Face Cream Moisturiser Fragrance-Free
The hyaluronic acid in this Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Moisturiser [17] ($32) is also mixed with amino-peptides and vitamin B3, which helps hydrate deep in your pores.
Hand Chemistry Hyaluronic Acid
This highly concentrated Hand Chemistry Hyaluronic Acid [18] ($21) is 99.9 percent pure. It's based with red algae and tamarind to enhance your whole body.
Roc Retinol Correxion Sensitive Night Cream
This Roc Retinol Correxion Night Cream [19] ($24) contains retinol to help fight ageing and dark spots, which can sometimes be drying for your skin. The added benefit of hyaluronic acid will make sure this product keeps you extramoisturised.