Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid (HA) are essential for healthier, younger-looking skin, and no brand does a hydrating serum quite like SkinMedica. We were first introduced to the brand’s cult-classic HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator back in 2016 when it launched. It is a wonder worker for making fine lines and wrinkles look smoother, thanks to the plumping power of hyaluronic acid. And, of course the brilliant minds at SkinMedica included not just one, but five types of hyaluronic acid that work instantly and long-term. It was a serum ahead of its time. Now, however, there’s a new plumping serum in town, and she’s even more effective. Meet HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish and Restore Hydrator.
The Benefits of This Plumping Serum
SkinMedica has been at the forefront of science-baked skin-care solutions for nearly three decades. Its parent company, Allergan Aesthetics, is the brains behind Botox Cosmetic and so many other in-office treatments we love. This new formula HA5 Hydrator modernizes the brand’s original formula by doubling the amount of hyaluronic acid (still the five different forms) and combining it with Hydra Collagen (vegan collagen) in a proprietary blend. These five types of hyaluronic acid provide low, medium and high molecular weights of the molecule to provide multiple layers of immediate and long-lasting hydration. There’s also the addition of Advanced VITISENSCE technology, which supports the skin’s natural ability to replenish its moisture supply.
We love the lightweight, creamy texture, which feels like a mix of water cream and serum. It soothes, smooths and replenishes dry and/or dehydrated skin, especially this time of year when the air is colder and drier. It also supports a healthy skin barrier, reducing redness and protecting against oxidative stress. The result? Smooth, bouncy, dewy skin for up to 48 hours. (The original HA5 formula, which will be phased out, has a 24-hour hydration claim, so now it lasts twice as long.)
Clinical Testing
In a clinical study, participants said the HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish and Restore Hydrator made their skin look approximately three years younger after 12 weeks. The vast majority (93 percent) of participants also reported their skin looked “visibly plumper” in that same time frame.
How to Use It
Apply it morning and night on clean skin. We typically need two pumps to cover our face and neck, but one may work for you. The serum layers really nicely with other products as well (just give it a second to dry). We pair it with moisturizer and/or sunscreen during the day and night cream before bed. It’s always best to lock in a hydrating formula with a moisturizing formula.
