Hydration and moisture are two different skincare requirements. Hydrating ingredients in skincare products tend to attract water to the skin’s outermost layer, whereas moisturizing ingredients lubricate the skin to keep water from escaping.
Many moisturizer products have both moisturizing and hydrating properties. Furthermore, because there is no agreement among experts on defining a moisturizer, some experts classify hydrating ingredients as moisturizers. People may be unsure whether they require more hydration or moisture in their skincare routine, but this is not always required when selecting products. Learn the distinctions between hydration and moisture and how to determine which ingredients a person’s skin requires the most.
What is Hydration?
Humectants are ingredients that absorb water from the environment to the skin, increasing hydration. They also draw water from the deeper layers of the skin, known as the dermis, and transport it to the skin’s outermost layer, known as the epidermis.
What is Moisturization?
Humectants, in addition to being hydrating ingredients, are also moisturizing. Oils and lipids that form a barrier on the skin to prevent water loss are known as occlusives. Petrolatum, beeswax, mineral oil, and lanolin are a few examples. Emollients improve the appearance and texture of the skin by strengthening the skin’s barrier function. Fatty acids and fatty alcohols are two examples. Protein rejuvenators are proteins that replenish essential proteins in the skin, potentially rejuvenating it. Collagen, keratin, and elastin are a few examples.
How to Know if You Need a Hydrator, Moisturizer or Both?
If your skin is dry, it is easy to believe that a generous application of moisturizer will restore its plump appearance and youthful glow. While this may be true at times, it’s also possible that your skin is dehydrated rather than dry. And if the latter is true, you’ll need a hydrator to get the job done.
Take note of your skin’s condition to determine whether it is dehydrated. The skin has a natural lipid barrier that protects it from damage and loss of water. If you have dry, flaky skin, it’s a sign that your skin isn’t producing enough lipid cells to form a protective barrier, leaving it unable to lock in moisture. This is where moisturizers come in.
The job of a moisturizer is to reduce the amount of water that evaporates from the skin to minimize transepidermal water loss. They trap and seal moisture. Moisturizing is especially beneficial for dry skin peeling or flaking after a chemical peel, when using Retin-A, or during the winter.
Meanwhile, if you have a dull and lackluster complexion, your skin may be dehydrated, with fine lines and wrinkles becoming more visible. Dry skin means that the cells are thirsty and dehydrated. When this occurs, they are not plump and volumized and appear faded as a group. A person’s skin can be hydrated but dry or dehydrated but moisturized. Ideally, we want hydrated, bouncy, swollen cells with topical moisture locked in.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right moisturizers can help you effectively hydrate and moisturize your skin. If you’re looking for a lightweight moisturizer, Thaicare has you covered. Its LX LEXIA Hydrating Moist gel is a light gel that keeps your skin hydrated and moisturized for up to 48 hours.
