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SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator: New formula vs old formula

by Amanda|March 10, 2026
SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator: New formula v old formula

If you've been a fan of the SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator for years—and trust us, you're not alone—you may have noticed something a little different on the shelf. SkinMedica has officially upgraded its iconic hydrator, and the new SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator is making waves. But how does it compare to the beloved original? And what does this enhanced formula offer? We're breaking it all down so you know exactly what has changed and what to expect. In this blog, we'll discuss:

What is the SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator?

For nearly a decade, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator has been a renowned moisturizer in the professional skin care world. Launched in 2016, it quickly became a cult favorite thanks to its proprietary blend of five forms of hyaluronic acid that work together to instantly smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while supporting skin's natural ability to replenish its own hyaluronic acid supply.

The original formula earned countless industry awards and loyal customers. The formula offers lightweight, non-greasy hydration that works beautifully under makeup—all hallmarks of a true hero product. So when SkinMedica announced an upgrade, the skin care community had a lot of questions about this newly enhanced formula.

What's new about the SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator?

Launched in August 2024, the SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator is described as the next evolution in hydration. The new formula builds on the same five-form hyaluronic acid technology that made the original a star, but SkinMedica didn't stop there.

Here's what's been added:

Two times more hyaluronic acid. The new formula delivers twice the amount of hyaluronic acid compared to the original HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, releasing different molecular weights and types of hyaluronic acid to address hydration at multiple levels of the skin.

Hydra Collagen Complex. This is a first for SkinMedica, and a first in the hydrator category. A vegan-derived Hydra Collagen has been incorporated into the formula to attract and retain water for immediate hydration and a visibly smoother, plumper complexion instantly.

Advanced VITISENSCE® Technology. While the original formula featured VITISENSCE® Technology, the new version takes it further with an advanced iteration that targets existing collagens deeper within the skin, specifically at the dermal-epidermal junction, to replenish natural humectants, restoring skin's hydration reservoir from within. The blend includes avocado oil esters, vitamin F, passion fruit seed oil, vitis flower stem extract and lotus sprout extract.

Anti-pill technology. A practical upgrade that skin care lovers will appreciate: the new formula is specifically designed to prevent pilling, making it even smoother and easier to layer under other serums, moisturizers and, of course, makeup.

New formula vs. old formula: key differences

Here's a quick look at how the two formulas stack up:

HA5 Comparison

Feature HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator (Original) HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore NEW
Hyaluronic Acid Five forms of HA Five forms of HA, 2x concentration
Collagen Not included Vegan Hydra Collagen Complex
Technology VITISENSCE® Technology VITISENSCE® Technology with botanical extracts
Hydration Duration Up to 24 hours Up to 48 hours
Skin Depth Epidermal surface Targets dermal-epidermal junction
Texture / Application Lightweight Lightweight with anti-pill technology
Silicone Contained silicone Silicone-free

What the clinical results show

Clinical studies for the new SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator show impressive results:

  • Patients reported their skin looked approximately 3 years younger by week 12
  • 93% reported their skin appeared more healthy and dewy within 2 weeks
  • 85% experienced visibly plumper skin in 12 weeks
  • 97% agreed the product improved skin quality at 12 weeks
  • 100% experienced greater confidence in their skin by week 12

Who should use the new formula?

SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator is conveniently formulated for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, sensitive and mature skin. Because it is silicone-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free and non-comedogenic, it's especially well-suited for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

This hydrator is an excellent choice for your skin if you:

  • Have dry, dehydrated or dull-looking skin
  • Want to visibly plump and smooth fine lines
  • Are looking for a hydrator that layers well under sunscreen and makeup
  • Want to support skin's long-term collagen and hyaluronic acid production
  • Are looking to complement in-office treatments

If you loved the original SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, the new formula offers everything that made it great—and more.

How to use it

Apply one to two pumps to clean, dry skin on the face, neck and chest. Use it twice daily, morning and night, after cleansing and before your moisturizer and sunscreen. Smooth gently onto skin and allow to absorb before layering additional products.

What customers are saying

SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator reviews have been pouring in, praising the enhanced formula for its impressive results.

LovelySkin customer Mary B. says, “I love this new HA5. I really liked the older version, but the HA5 Hydra Collagen has such a smooth texture and leaves my skin so silky and soft.”

LovelySkin customer Amanda T. adds, “This is a great hydrating serum. It has a slightly thinner consistency than the previous HA5 serum and seems to absorb a little better. Loving my results with this!”

Whether you're a longtime HA5 fan or discovering the line for the first time, the new SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator is a worthy addition to any hydration-focused routine.

Shop the entire SkinMedica HA5 skin care collection and much more at LovelySkin with free U.S. shipping and complimentary samples with every order.