# Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few moisturizers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin as Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate provide excellent hydration without exacerbating oiliness, supporting your goals for acne and blemishes.
- The serum's humectant action is beneficial for maintaining skin hydration, which is important for managing breakouts.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydration Complex

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Phytosphingosine increased filaggrin metabolism and skin hydration in human skin by stimulating filaggrin biosynthesis and degradation leading to natural moisturizing factor formation. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this serum for its lightweight, non-greasy texture that deeply hydrates dry and sensitive skin, leaving it feeling plump and soft. While most find it an effective moisture booster that layers well under makeup, some users with very dry skin feel it requires an additional heavy moisturizer to seal in the benefits.

- Liked: Lightweight texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deeply hydrating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free option (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Softens skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging design issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Insufficient hydration (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Small quantity (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this AM and PM routine every day to help clear your skin. Always remember to finish with SPF in the morning.
- Apply the moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your SPF during the day.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and avoid rubbing to keep pores clear.
- Apply on clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb better and control oil.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a simple patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Neutrogena Hydro Boost Serum a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a great fit because glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide deep hydration without making oily skin feel greasy or clogging pores. This moisture helps manage breakouts while soothing components keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate make this serum a great fit because they provide deep hydration without making oily skin heavier, which helps keep breakouts under control. This safe formula is unlikely to cause any irritation since it leaves out harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

### What does Hydration Complex do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hydration Complex helps keep oily acne-prone skin balanced by providing deep moisture and supporting the skin barrier without clogging pores. Using this type of formula may help reduce extra oil and keep your face feeling soft and smooth.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/), [Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33809557/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine, applied after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and adds extra safety around sun exposure, though some serums can also be used in the morning or twice a day.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

Yes, you can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first to hydrate your skin and then following with your retinol treatment. This hydrating serum provides moisture without adding oil, which helps soothe your skin and keeps breakouts under control while using retinol.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum in the evening as part of your routine. Daily application helps maintain skin hydration and supports your goals for managing breakouts without making your skin oily.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This serum is a great fit for oily acne-prone skin because Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin provide deep hydration without making your skin oily or causing breakouts. It is unlikely to cause irritation or clog pores due to the absence of harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can I use this serum around the eyes or on my body?

Yes, you can use this serum around the eyes and on your body because its gentle formula adapts well to thinner areas like the eyelids and various body regions. It is unlikely to cause irritation and helps keep your skin hydrated.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$40.50 at Amazon
- [Elizavecca Witch Piggy Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic Acid 97%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/elizavecca/witch-piggy-hell-pore-control-hyaluronic-acid-97/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$25.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$18.98 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08PR4R8NT?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$22.49 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/neutrogena-hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-face-serum-with-vitami/p/BB_062600380159?variantCode=062600380159)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Edta
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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