In this comprehensive guide, we bring you a curated selection of the 15 best cruelty-free hyaluronic acid serums available right now. These serums have been carefully chosen for their effectiveness, ingredients, and dedication to cruelty-free and eco-friendly practices.
Whether you’re seeking a hydrating boost for dry skin, anti-aging benefits, or a gentle formula for sensitive skin, you’ll find a cruelty-free hyaluronic acid serum on this list that meets your needs.
To know more about ethical and clean beauty, check our articles about cruelty-free vitamin C serums, cruelty-free moisturizers, and cruelty-free face washes.
Table of Contents
Advantages of Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Skin – According to Experts
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the human body that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. It is renowned for its exceptional ability to retain moisture, which contributes to its numerous benefits for the skin.
According to dermatologists and scientific studies, here are some key benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin:
-Intense Hydration: Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a renowned dermatologist, explains, “Hyaluronic acid has the remarkable ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent hydrator for the skin.” It helps to replenish and retain moisture, resulting in a plump and dewy complexion.
-Enhanced Skin Elasticity: Dr. Patricia Wexler, a prominent dermatologist, highlights the role of hyaluronic acid in maintaining skin elasticity. She states, “Hyaluronic acid helps to improve the skin’s elasticity by promoting collagen synthesis and preventing moisture loss.” This can lead to a firmer and more supple appearance.
-Wrinkle Reduction: Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that topical application of hyaluronic acid resulted in significant improvements in wrinkle depth and skin firmness.
-Skin Soothing and Calming: Hyaluronic acid possesses soothing properties that can benefit sensitive or irritated skin. Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist, explains, “Hyaluronic acid has a calming effect on the skin and can help reduce redness and inflammation.”
-Improved Skin Texture: Due to its moisturizing and plumping effects, hyaluronic acid can help improve the overall texture and smoothness of the skin. It can minimize the appearance of roughness, dry patches, and uneven skin tone
15 BEST CRUELTY-FREE HYALURONIC ACID SERUMS
1. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum With Over 7,000 5-Stars Reviews
TruSkin – Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Review | 4.4/5 Stars over 7,005 Reviews
Price | $15.99 for 1 oz
- Ultimate Hydration Lock: Hyaluronic Acid seals in moisture, amplifying moisturizer effects.
- Firmness & Tone Fusion: MSM, Green Tea, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin E improve firmness, texture, and tone.
- Cruelty-Free Certified: Leaping Bunny seal guarantees ethical practices.
- USA Crafted: Manufactured and bottled in the USA.
- Satisfaction Assured: 90-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free experience.
Customer Review | “I love this product. After a couple uses, I could visibly see and feel my face getting softer and smoother. I notice a reduce in winkles and acne scars. The HA gave me a glowing face. I am a firm believer that TruSkin products and will continue to buy for myself and gifts for family and friends.” Angela
2. Best Affordable Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Pacifica Beauty – Clean Shot
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 203 Reviews
Price | $12
- Moisture Master: Hyaluronic acid for optimal moisture and hydration.
- Clean Composition: Without parabens, phthalates, SLS, mineral oil, petrolatum; sulfate and silicone-free.
- Universal Suitability: Ideal for all skin types.
- Ethically Crafted: Certified Vegan & Cruelty-Free by PETA.
- American Quality: Made in the U.S.A.
Customer Review | “This is my go to serum for nighttime! Super hydrating, smoothing and brightening. Especially awesome if your skin has been feeling dry and dull!”’ Rowan
3. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum With Organic Ingredients
One Love Organics – Love + Rose Hydrating Serum
Review | 5/5 Stars over 2 Reviews
Price | $78 for 1.7 oz / 50mL
- Rose Shield: Rose extract battles pollution and blue light stress.
- Barrier Boost: Hyaluronic acid aids in forming a breathable barrier.
- Sensitivity Tested: Dermatologist tested, free from synthetic fragrance, safe for sensitive skin.
- Eco-Approved: ECOCERT® certified as natural and organic.
- Compassion Certified: PETA’s Cruelty-Free seal, assuring the brand’s ethical commitment.
Customer Review | “This product is the best moisturizer I’ve ever used. I have been using it for almost one year and it’s kept my skin very soft, moisturized, and youthful looking. I have melasma and this has helped to keep it under control. I also love the smell! It’s very light which is great because I can’t deal with strong scents. I definitely recommend this product.” Maria
4. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Dry & Dehydrated Skin
Dermalogica – Circular Hydration Serum with Hyaluronic Acid
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 968 Reviews
Price | $64 for 1 oz
- Instant Hydration: Plant-derived sugars and amino acids swiftly hydrate dehydrated skin.
- Lasting Moisture: Hyaluronic Acid offers enduring hydration for the day and more.
- In-depth Replenishment: Polyglutamic Acid nourishes skin from within.
- Kindly Cruelty-Free: Certified by PETA and Leaping Bunny for cruelty-free assurance.
- For All Skin: Suitable for every skin type.
Customer Review | “I like how refreshed my skin feels after I put on the serum. I also like how it remains hydrated for the next day. I like how I can add my moisturizer with SPF for the day and it doesn’t feel too heavy” Pam
5. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face and Eye
Murad – Revitalixir Recovery Serum
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 180 Reviews
Price | $97 for 1.35 oz
- Hydration & Glow: Hyaluronic Acid brings deep hydration and illuminates the skin.
- Energizing Elixir: Caffeine rejuvenates tone, diminishing puffiness and stress lines around the eyes.
- Clean Formula: Fragrance-free and artificial color-free formulation.
- Free From: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Gluten, Animal-derived ingredients, Mineral oil, Formaldehyde, Oxybenzone, Petrolatum.
- Cruelty-Free Assurance: Certified by PETA for cruelty-free practices.
Customer Review | “This product delivers. I mainly just use it around my eyes for reducing fine lines and puffiness and dark circles and I would say it has noticeably improved those issues. It smells great. Feels great. A little pricey but it’s a good product.” JDuff
6. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Aging and Mature Skin
Indie Lee – Superfruit Facial Cream
Review | 4.8/5 Stars over 40 Reviews
Price | 105$ for 1.7 oz/50 mL
- Nourishing Illumination: Hyaluronic Acid and natural Peptides work harmoniously to nourish and enhance your complexion.
- Texture Transformation: Hyaluronic Acid and AHAs combine to hydrate, while addressing texture and tone.
- Clean & Pure: Free from Parabens, Mineral Oil, Sulfate-based Detergents, Synthetic Fragrance, Petroleum-based Ingredients, Phthalates, Phenoxyethanol, Formaldehyde, and GMO.
- Cruelty-Free Commitment: Leaping Bunny’s certification assures cruelty-free products.
Customer Review | “I love the texture of this serum, it’s on the thicker side for a serum but it absorbs easily and my combination skin feels hydrated. You can easily skip moisturizer with this and just apply sunscreen so cuts down the amount t of products you need in the morning! It has great ingredients for sensitive skin like mine and I love the antioxidant benefits it provides.” Josie Jump
7. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vegan Formulation
Milk Makeup – Hydro Grip Primer
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 2,436 Reviews
Price | $38 for 1.52 FL OZ / 45 ML
- Natural Radiance: Wear under makeup for a naturally dewy, fresh appearance.
- Hydration Boost: Enriched with hyaluronic acid and hemp-derived cannabis seed extract for amplified hydration.
- Skin Quench: Niacinamide (vitamin B3), blue agave extract, and aloe water infuse moisture into the skin.
- Clean & Kind: Vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free, oil-free, fragrance-free, and gluten-free formulation.
- Cruelty-Free: Leaping Bunny’s stamp of approval for cruelty-free assurance.
Customer Review | “At the end of the day my foundation is still in place. It feels light and hydrating. Just the right amount of sticky to keep everything in place and long lasting.” Deborah
8. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Acne-Prone Skin
True Botanicals – Chebula Active Serum
Review | 4.4/5 Stars over 2,793 Reviews
Price | $90 for 1 oz / 30mL
- Ayurvedic Boost: Harness the power of Chebula, an ayurvedic fruit with potent antioxidant properties, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone while smoothing roughness.
- Radiance Blend: Infused with Elderberry, Ginger & Echinacea for a natural glow and vibrant complexion.
- Plumped & Softened: Hyaluronic Acid enhances with a plumping effect and skin-softening touch.
- Skin Harmony: Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, suitable for diverse skin types.
- Cruelty-Free Commitment: Certified by Leaping Bunny for cruelty-free assurance.
Customer Review | “This serum is exactly what my skin needed! It hydrates my thirsty skin and the delicate scent this serum has is simply divine!” Barbara
9. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Sensitive Skin
100% Pure – Rose Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Review | 4.6/5 Stars over 73 Reviews
Price | $52 for 1 fl oz / 29.5 ml
- Youthful Elasticity: Rose Hydrosol and Hyaluronic Acid restore bounce and elasticity, hydrating deeply for a revitalized face.
- Instant Refreshment: Light gel texture quickly hydrates dry skin, while Chamomile and Calendula soothe and calm.
- Redness Banished: Beta Glucan and Sodium PCA tone and protect, reducing redness and maintaining vital moisture levels.
- Botanical Synergy: Pair with Calendula Face Wash for comprehensive nourishment and cleansing.
- Clean & Kind: Natural, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, and Made in USA
Customer Review | “This is the only serum I can use on my sensitive skin. I have rosacea and this really calms it down. It is very soothing and my skin feels so soft and smooth after applying it.” Clara
10. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Osea – Hyaluronic Sea Serum
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 303 Reviews
Price | $88 for 1 fl oz / 29.5 ml
- Swift Transformation: Concentrated serum swiftly diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, delivering a youthful appearance.
- Dual Hydration: Upgraded formula with dual hyaluronic acid weights, seaweed, and snow mushroom maintains all-day moisture.
- Dermatologist Tested: Clinically proven to fortify skin, improve firmness, and remain gentle on all skin types.
- Visible Revitalization: Fragrance-free, anti-aging benefits for smoother, firmer skin with reduced lines.
- Clean & Kind: Vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably crafted in California for a conscientious skincare choice.
Customer Review | “I’ve been using this serum for about a year now, repurchased multiple times, and my overall skin quality is so much better. it has helped with fine lines more than I ever expected and when I use it at night I actually wake up with my skin feeling hydrated! It is absolutely worth the price.” Rose
11. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Dark Spots & Breakouts
Rosen – Tropics Toner
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 17 Reviews
Price | $18 for 4.3 fl oz
- Natural & Compassionate: Crafted with natural ingredients and cruelty-free, it’s a toner that cares.
- Dark Spot Defense: Formulated to prevent and fade dark spots, combining Kojic Acid and Pineapple Enzymes for a brighter complexion.
- Oil Balance & Hydration: Hyaluronic Acid regulates oil levels while keeping the skin hydrated.
- Breakout Prevention: Ideal for daily use against breakouts and minor dark spots
- Tropical Revival: Designed for smoother skin, slight breakouts, and scarring, with Kojic Acid, Pineapple, and Hyaluronic Acid, making it a refreshing choice.
Customer Review | “This toner actually works for me. It’s hydrating and a little thick which I like, and I don’t have any issues with it breaking me out. It works great with their Vitamin C serum and Super Smoothie Cleanser to fade any scarring and I like the pop top cap!” R
12. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum – Clinically Proven
Pai Skincare – Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Booster
Review | 4.8/5 Stars over 35 Reviews
Price | $29 for 10ml | 0.3 fl oz
- Ultimate Hydration: Soak your skin in the power of Hyaluronic Acid that locks in moisture.
- Multi-Level Hydration: Tailored molecules optimize hydration, nurturing different skin levels for a robust barrier and radiant complexion.
- Hello Hydration: All-natural booster, enhancing skin with effective, fragrance-free hydration.
- Universal Suitability: Ideal for all skin types, Pai Labs creation is designed for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin.
- Certified Confidence: Clinically proven safe for sensitive skin, this plumping, smoothing formula is your go-to for a dewy, youthful look.
Customer Review | “Have used the back to life serum for many years, but this booster combined with the serum has really made a difference to my dehydrated skin” Helene
13. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Uneven Skin
Odacité – Brightening Serum
Review | 4.7/5 Stars over 33 Reviews
Price | $78 for 1OZ | 30ML
- Advanced Technology: Patented encapsulation technology targets dark spots and aging signs with Vitamin C & E.
- Universal Use: Suitable for all skin types, especially those with dark spots and signs of aging.
- Focused Effects: Combats uneven skin, dullness, wrinkles, and loss of firmness.
- Visible Transformation: Achieve brighter, even, and firmer skin.
- Vitamin Boost: Vitamin C evens tone, boosts collagen, Vitamin E defends, while Hyaluronic Acid hydrates.
Customer Review | “Love this product so far! My skin gets an instant glow, looks more hydrated, and my fine lines become far less noticeable after applying.” Andrea
14. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Skin Firming
Kosas – Plump + Juicy Vegan Collagen + Probiotic Spray-On Serum
Review | 4.1/5 Stars over 183 Reviews
Price | $48 for 3.38 oz / 100 ml
- Quick Reset: Vegan collagen + probiotics rapidly infuse skin, hydrating, soothing, and visibly firming.
- Powerful Benefits: Supports skin barrier, plumps with hydration, peptides lift, and amino acids strengthen.
- Pure Absorption: pH balance restoration optimizes ingredient penetration without barriers.
- Easy Application: Spray on clean skin, morning and night, follow with moisturizer and SPF.
- Kosas Clean: Vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free. Free from harmful additives.
Customer Review | “Makes me feel so good in the morning!! I use this after I wash my face, and before my toner and leaves me feeling rejuvenated!! It soaks into the skin quickly and feels light, makes me look amazing. This is not oily or hard to blend.” Suoxy
15. Best Cruelty-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum – Amazon Bestseller
Asterwood – Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face
Review | 4.5/5 Stars over 23,730 Reviews
Price | $11.99 for 1 fl oz
- Oprah’s Choice: Chosen by Oprah’s editors, this hyaluronic acid serum offers a plumper, calmer complexion.
- Moisture “Sandwich”: Apply daily to seal in moisture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles by filling gaps between skin cells.
- Youthful Elixir: Pure hyaluronic acid restores elasticity, turning back time on your skin’s appearance.
- Deeper Nourishment: Penetrates for thorough hydration, shielding against environmental stressors and inflammation.
- All Skin Types: Vegan, clean formula suits sensitive skin, fits day and night routines, and works harmoniously with other treatments.
Customer Review | “This product should be way more mainstream I think. I started using it and my skin looks and feels better. The formula feels great on my skin when I apply it. Has to be the best Hyaluronic Acid product we ever tried.” DaleH
FAQ
Who should not use hyaluronic acid serum?
Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to hyaluronic acid or any of its derivatives should avoid using hyaluronic acid serum. It’s always advisable to consult with a dermatologist before introducing any new skincare product, especially if you have specific skin concerns or medical conditions.
What ingredients should not be used with a hyaluronic acid serum?
Avoid using hyaluronic acid serums in combination with exfoliating acids, such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), as they can potentially cause skin irritation or compromise the effectiveness of the products. It’s best to separate the application of hyaluronic acid serum from exfoliating treatments.
What is a natural substitute for hyaluronic acid serum?
While no natural ingredient can replicate the exact properties of hyaluronic acid, certain plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, rosehip oil, or glycerin can provide similar hydration benefits. These natural alternatives can help boost moisture levels and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
When should you use a hyaluronic acid serum?
Hyaluronic acid serums are typically used as part of a skincare routine after cleansing and toning the skin. It’s best to apply hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin, as it helps to lock in moisture. Follow it up with a moisturizer to seal in the hydration. Additionally, hyaluronic acid serums can be used in both morning and evening routines.
Can you apply too much hyaluronic acid serum?
Using excessive amounts of hyaluronic acid serum may not yield better results and can potentially lead to a sticky or tacky feeling on the skin. It’s generally recommended to use a pea-sized amount or follow the product instructions for the appropriate dosage. Remember to layer it with other skincare products and adjust the amount based on your skin’s needs.
Can you use hyaluronic acid and vitamin C together?
Yes, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C can be used together in a skincare routine. In fact, they can complement each other’s benefits. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration while vitamin C offers antioxidant protection and brightening effects. Apply hyaluronic acid serum first to hydrate the skin, followed by vitamin C serum to reap the benefits of both ingredients.
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