Heatwaves can wreak havoc on your skin, causing sweat, suncream irritation, air conditioning dryness, and even sunburn. Despite drinking water all day, your complexion often ends up dehydrated, with a dull, parched texture that makeup won't adhere to. A hydrating serum can help restore your skin's juiciest, plumpest state.
Key ingredients to look for include humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, as well as soothing heroes such as squalane, panthenol, ceramides, and allantoin. Whether you have dry, sensitive, acne-prone, or congested skin, there's a serum for every budget—from under £20 to £45 cult favourites.
FaceGym Hydro-Bound Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide Serum
If your skin looks dull rather than dewy, this serum is worth the splurge. It features hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to soothe, plump, and hydrate. The thin, lightweight texture absorbs in seconds, leaving skin instantly smoother. The pipette doesn't get stuck or leak. Price: £68.
Keats The Hydrating Serum
This indie brand sells only this serum and a moisturiser. It's a refreshing tonic for skin barriers damaged by air conditioning, hot tube carriages, and sleepless nights. It won't irritate redness or inflammation, nor leave skin sticky. Price: £28.
E45 Face Hydrating Serum
A reliable option for drier skin or eczema-prone types. It's affordable, fragrance-free, and no-fuss. The cool gel texture rubs in easily, and you can apply SPF and makeup immediately without pilling. Price: £17.90.
RoC Hydra+ Hyaluronic Serum Stick
This slick stick format offers maximum hydration with minimal effort. You barely need to rub it in—just scribble on skin. It blends hyaluronic acid, peptides, and pro-collagen to rehydrate and smooth fine lines. Price: £34.99.
Olay Super Serum
This serum covers all bases: Vitamin C for brightening, niacinamide for pigmentation, collagen peptides for fine lines, and lactic acid for exfoliation and hydration. Currently half price at Boots. The milky texture absorbs quickly, leaving subtle luminosity. Price: £19.99 (was £39.99).
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Deep Hydration Serum
Originally designed for aeroplane travel, this hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 formula also works on heat-stressed skin. It delivers a well-rested, dewy complexion with little effort. Apply day and night to clean skin; within weeks you'll see improvement. Price: £44.
Cetaphil Advanced Defence (AM) Morning Serum
Known for gentle cleansers, Cetaphil's morning serum is reasonably priced and ticks many boxes. It contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, Vitamin E, and Gallic-AOX Power antioxidant. This cocktail hydrates, improves radiance, and minimises pores and fine lines. Price: £26.50.
Aestura Atobarrier365 Hydro Cera-Ha Serum
Korean brand Aestura's serum is part of its impressive Atobarrier365 line. It's an underrated gem for skin irritated by sun and heat. The soothing gel is loaded with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to calm redness and prevent moisture loss. Price: £28.
