# Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best moisturizers for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your combination skin, as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide humectant benefits without exacerbating oiliness. This addresses your oily shine by delivering essential moisture.
- The formula is generally safe for your combination skin, with no harsh ingredients that would cause irritation.
- The serum's primary function is hydration, which is beneficial for your skin, though it does not offer targeted solutions for other specific concerns you may have.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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 a formulation containing natural moisturizing factor components increased strongly bound water, decreased weakly bound water at 30-40% stratum corneum depth, and prevented intercellular lipids disorganization compared to placebo in 12 volunteers. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33809557/))
- 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 moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a 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 combination skin?

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Serum is a great fit for combination skin because ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide moisture without making oily areas worse. The gentle formula is safe and avoids harsh ingredients that could cause irritation, while keeping your skin hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate make this serum a great fit because they provide essential moisture without making your oily areas shine. The formula is generally safe and helps keep your skin soft and smooth without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What does Hydration Complex do for combination skin?

Hydration Complex helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by boosting moisture levels and supporting the skin barrier. It improves hydration and elasticity while helping prevent dryness without feeling heavy.
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 combination skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine right after cleansing and toning, and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening helps keep things simple and gives you extra safety around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first to deliver moisture and help keep your skin calm while the retinol works. Using a hydrating moisturizer after retinol also helps reduce dryness.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is used in the evening as part of your routine for combination skin. Daily application helps improve skin moisture and keeps your skin feeling soft without feeling 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 combination skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin because its ingredients deliver moisture without making oily spots heavier. It also does not contain harsh components, keeping irritation and purging very unlikely.
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 hydrating serum around the eyes and on your body because its gentle formula is safe and well-tolerated by thin skin. It delivers essential moisture without causing irritation, though the skin around the eyes is uniquely thin and benefits greatly from formulas with proven high tolerance.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37896378/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $30.00 at Amazon
- [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $17.90 at Amazon
- [su:m37º Secret Essence Double Concentrate](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/su-m37o/secret-essence-double-concentrate/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $29.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $14.97 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $18.49 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08937VD6Z?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 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/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
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- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
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