Hydration and moisture are two commonly marketed words in cosmetology. As skincare brands seek to make more profit, there is a large influx of products that promise to offer both hydration and moisture. But as skincare lovers, deciding whether your skin needs hydration or moisture can be tricky, particularly when both words are used interchangeably.

Hydration and moisture are two different situations that pertain to skin lubrication. For skincare newbies with little knowledge about skin hydration and moisture, this article delves deep into the differences, similarities, and benefits of different skin types. 

What is Hydration?

Hydration is the physiological procedure of introducing, maintaining, and replacing water in the cells, organs, and tissues of organisms like us humans. This refers to the process of adding or conserving water in the body to affect proper bodily functions. It is vital to achieving overall health because of its important role in different biological processes. They include temperature regulation, digestion, and nutrient movement from one part of the body to the other.

To sum it all up, the distribution and absorption of water in the body help to regulate the balance of fluids in humans. In terms of skincare applications, hydration for the skin means the external replacement of water in the skin to maintain its moisture levels, elasticity, suppleness, and overall health. This, in combination with internal sufficiency, helps to achieve glowing skin.

Hydration vs. Moisture

Most people mistake hydration as the synonym for moisture and always use it as such. Are you one of them? If yes, then you need to concentrate on this part to see the relationship between both concepts.

Hydration usually refers to the body’s balance, and internal water content helps the body function properly. On the other hand, moisture refers to the availability of liquid-like moisture in the air or skin.

Although these two terms seem to be the same, there are many differentiating ideas behind both of them. While one focuses on the availability of liquid on the outside, the other one is all about internal water levels.

Hydrating Ingredients to Look for in Skincare Products

There are many skincare hydrating products available for purchase in the market by many brands out there. These products often contain many varying ingredients that are responsible for the positive changes people often expect. The ingredients help to hold and attract moisture, enhance skin hydration, and prevent skin dryness. Here are some of them:

• Hyaluronic Acid: This is a potent humectant that retains and draws water to help the skin remain hydrated and healthy.

• Glycerin: It offers the best hydration for face and skin types and attracts moisture to the skin. Elasticity and prevention of dehydration are other benefits of this ingredient.

• Almond Oil: If you are looking to nourish and moisturize your skin, almond oil is your best bet. The oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, which can help to make your skin soft and supple.

• Aloe Vera: This ingredient contains calming properties that help to hydrate and soothe the skin. It also contains antioxidants that nourish the overall skin to achieve positive health.

• Jojoba Oil: Oil extracts are also components of good skincare products that you can watch out for. This is a lightweight oil that imitates the natural oils of the skin. It is also capable of hydrating the skin and does not clog pores. Also, it includes beneficial minerals and vitamins that help the skin glow.

• Ceramides: Are you aware that lipids help the skin to remain healthy and hydrated? Well, ceramides are lipids that assist in generating skin barriers and preventing moisture loss. So, don't be too surprised if you find an ingredient like ceramides in your skincare products.

Note that the effectiveness of these ingredients depends on your skin type. Your personal preference is also a factor; do you love the scent these ingredients emit? Are you interested in testing the product? It is a good idea to always try new products to see how your skin reacts to them before making them a permanent fixture in your skincare routine. 

How Do I Know If My Skin Needs Hydration vs Moisture?

It is important to know which care your skin needs at the moment. Does your skin need to be hydrated or moisturized? Well, this depends on its current condition. Learn which treatment pattern best suits your skin needs from the differentiation below.

When You Should Hydrate Your Skin

If your skin looks dull, has fine lines, or feels tight, then it is time to consider some hydrating treatments. Find products with water-attracting and retaining products like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid to restore your skin’s moisture levels.

The Adequate Time for Moisturizing Your Skin

If your skin looks flaky, rough, or susceptible to redness, then you need to moisturize. So, you need to find products with occlusive agents like natural oils (jojoba, almond) or shea butter to form a protective barrier and lock in useful moisture.

One way to guarantee overall healthy skin is by learning to balance both moisture and hydration. You will never know unless you try. So, experiment with a couple of products to see how your skin reacts until you find the right balance for your skin.

Can I Combine Hydration and Moisture in My Skincare Routine?

Certainly! You get the best results when you combine hydration and moisture skincare routine to get the full package. However, there are steps to take, as you can’t just venture into whatever routine and expect to get the best results. 

First, you need to begin with hydrating products like those that contain glycerin or hyaluronic acid to retain and attract water to your skin. Next, use moisturizing products that contain natural oil or emollients to retain that hydration and prevent moisture loss.

There is a reason you must go in this order. It is because layering lighter hydrating products before the heavier moisturizers lets you treat both parts of skin care accordingly. It is left to you to find the best products containing the right products to help properly hydrate and moisturize your skin.

Dermaclara's Occlusion Patches for Skin Hydration

Occlusion patches are designed to create a boundary in the skin’s surface to prevent elements that can contaminate the skin and cause issues. Also, it assists in locking in moisture and absorbing active ingredients.

Dermaclara's Occlusion Patches support skin hydration and help to achieve a skin glow almost seamlessly. They are hydrating masks for the face and other body parts that you can try out.