Hydrating vs. Moisturizing
As a Derm PA, I have found that the terms "hydration" and "moisturization" are often used interchangeably. In actuality, they serve distinct (but equally vital) roles in maintaining skin health. I like to say that hydration focuses on increasing the water content in the skin, which keeps it plump. Moisturization, on the other hand, is all about reinforcing the skin’s barrier to lock in that hydration and prevent water loss. While it’s easy to think you only need one or the other, the truth is that most skin types benefit from both. In this blog, we are going to go into a little more detail on what each of these terms mean and my tips for keeping your skin hydrated AND moisturized.
Hydration:
Hydration refers to increasing the water content within the skin, quite literally giving your skin cells a drink. This is achieved with humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, collagen, and aloe vera to name a few, which draw water into the skin and improve its ability to retain moisture. Hydrated skin appears plump, with reduced visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
Signs Your Skin Needs Hydration:
Dehydrated skin often feels tight, looks dull, and may make fine lines more noticeable. A quick way to test: pinch your cheek—if it wrinkles with gentle pressure, it may be dehydrated.
How to Hydrate Your Skin:
Hydrating Serums: I love incorporating a hydrating serum into your routine after cleansing. These serums deliver water directly into the skin’s cells. A few of my favorite hydrating serums include:
Moisturization:
Moisturization focuses on sealing hydration into the skin by forming a barrier that prevents water loss. Moisturizers typically contain emollients (like ceramides and shea butter) and occlusives (like dimethicone and oils).
The science behind this is essentially reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). TEWL refers to the process by which water naturally evaporates from the skin into the environment. Without a proper moisturizing barrier, even hydrated skin can quickly lose its moisture and become dry.
Signs Your Skin Needs Moisturization:
Dry skin often feels rough or flaky and may itch or even peel.
How to Moisturize Your Skin:
Ceramides: Ceramides are essential for effective moisturization because they naturally make up about 50% of the skin's lipid barrier, acting as the "mortar" that holds skin cells together. As we age, our ceramide levels decrease, leading to dryness, sensitivity, and a weakened skin barrier. By replenishing ceramides through skincare products, you can restore your skin's ability to retain moisture. Here are some of my favorite products that contain ceramides:
Slugging: After applying your hydration/moisture routine, slugging traps these ingredients and the water they attract, locking them into the skin. You can also read my blog on slugging for more info!
It’s important to note that not everyone will need two steps in their routine to achieve this! Most modern moisturizers contain both moisturizing and hydrating ingredients so if you feel like your regular moisturizer is doing the trick you DO NOT need to change anything! But if you feel that you are moisturizing well without seeing an improvement in the signs of dryness/dehydration, this two step approach could be exactly what your skin is missing!
Pro Tip: Read my blog on building a routine for dry skin here! It includes some of my favorite products to combat dry skin!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical device. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
