This Under-$30 Hydrating Serum Is Dewy, Glow-y Skin in a Bottle

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For the better part of the last decade, hyaluronic acid has dominated the skin-care hydration conversation. But what if there are other ingredients out there that can accomplish even more when it comes to delivery dewy, plump skin?

My latest hydration obsession contains no HA — and it delivers possibly the bounciest, glow-iest, most deeply quenched results I've experienced. Prequel Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum is a lightweight, jelly-like, water-based formula with an impressive lineup of hydrators, including dual-weight polyglutamic acid, glycerin, propanediol and hibiscus fruit extract. It's also spiked with ectoin, a multitasking amino-acid derivative that hydrates, protects against environmental stressors, reduces inflammation and prevents against moisture loss.

I want skin-care products that deliver immediate and long-term results, and this serum certainly checks that box. Upon just one use, it immediately helps to replenish moisture, calm and quench skin, while creating a plump, luminous finish. Over time, it also prevents against future dehydration, damage to skin cells and the moisture barrier.

While serums can sometimes be intimidated or confusing, this one is easy in that it plays well with others: It's perfect under makeup, not at all oily and doesn't pill. And, as far as other skin-care formulas and ingredients go, it pairs pretty seamlessly with most other actives, making it relatively foolproof.

Considering all of that, the under-$30 price point is a huge win — no need to drop $300 on that hyaluronic acid you've been wondering about for years.

Prequel Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum, $28, available here

Homepage photo: Courtesy of Prequel

Please note: This product was gifted. Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. In no way do either affect our editorial decision-making.

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