Amazon Basics Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Affordable Skincare That Works

When it comes to skincare, one product that almost everyone can benefit from is a good hyaluronic acid serum. Known for its ability to lock in moisture, hyaluronic acid has become a staple in routines for both beginners and skincare enthusiasts. But with so many options on the market—many carrying hefty price tags—it can be overwhelming to find one that balances quality with affordability.

A product worth considering is the Amazon Basics Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Sold in a 1-fluid ounce bottle, this serum is marketed as lightweight, fast-absorbing, and effective at restoring skin hydration. 

But can a store-brand product really hold its own against big names like CeraVe or The Ordinary? That’s the question we’ll answer in this review.

What’s Inside the Formula

The Amazon Basics serum isn’t just a bottle with a popular label slapped on—it’s packed with ingredients that genuinely support skin health:

• Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture, helping skin look plumper and smoother.
  
• Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier, preventing water loss and improving resilience.
  
• Vitamin B5: Calms and soothes skin, reducing redness and irritation.
  
• Clean Formula: Free of parabens and phthalates, making it a solid choice for sensitive or cautious skincare users.
  

By combining hydration with barrier support, the formula aims to give skin both an immediate glow and long-term resilience.

Texture and Application

Serums can make or break a routine based on their feel—and this one earns points for being lightweight and fast-absorbing.

Many users note that it glides on easily and disappears into the skin within seconds, leaving no greasy or sticky residue. That makes it perfect for layering under moisturizer, sunscreen, or makeup.

However, some reviewers felt the texture was thinner than expected. If you’re used to rich, gel-like serums, this may feel more watery. That’s not necessarily bad—especially if you prefer lightweight products—but it’s something to keep in mind.

Hydration Power

At the heart of this product is its ability to hydrate—and according to most users, it delivers.

• Daily Moisture Boost: Several people mention using it daily with noticeable improvement in softness and smoothness.
  
• Great for Layering: Works well as a base layer under thicker creams, especially for dry or combination skin.
  
• Budget-Friendly Dupe: A common review theme is that it’s a “CeraVe dupe”—offering similar hydration at a fraction of the cost.
  

In short, if your skin craves hydration but you don’t want to spend too much, this serum holds its own against more expensive alternatives.

Things to Consider

Of course, no product is perfect. Here are a few drawbacks worth mentioning:

• Scent: While it’s labeled fragrance-free, some users report a faint natural aroma similar to oat-based lotions like Aveeno.
  
• Potential Sensitivity: A small number of reviewers experienced irritation or blotchiness. Sensitive skin types should patch-test first.
  
• Packaging: The pump design is convenient but not the most efficient—some product can get trapped inside, making it tricky to use every last drop.
  

These aren’t dealbreakers, but they’re worth considering depending on your skin type and preferences.

Is It Worth Adding to Your Routine?

The Amazon Basics Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is proof that effective skincare doesn’t always come with a designer price tag. With its lightweight texture, solid hydration benefits, and wallet-friendly cost, it’s an excellent choice for everyday use.

Yes, the packaging could be better, and sensitive skin types should proceed with caution—but for most users, this serum is a reliable way to keep skin hydrated and smooth without overspending.

Bottom line: If you’re searching for a lightweight, budget-friendly serum that simply works, this Amazon Basics option is worth a try.