Moisturizers are excellent for providing surface moisture, but moisturization and hydration are not the same thing. A true hydrating serum delivers moisture to deeper layers of the skin. That is why well-hydrated skin has a special glow to it that is hard to define. Learn more about the differences so you can give your skin what it needs to shine.
Understanding Skin Hydration
Hydration is causing something to absorb water. When you apply that term to the skin, it means delivering moisture directly to your skin. This requires a deep, penetrating formula that is not found in many moisturizers.
On the other hand, dehydrated skin often appears dry, flaky, and thin. It may display wrinkles and be more prone to breakouts and infections than otherwise healthy and well-hydrated skin. One way to tell if your skin is dehydrated is to gently pinch a small amount together. If it stays pinched, then you may be dehydrated. however, if it returns to its normal appearance, your hydration levels are probably fine.
Benefits of Skin Hydration
Normal skin hydration levels can help you achieve a smoother, more youthful look. Adequate moisture helps keep skin soft and supple, which reduces some common signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Like a quality face brightener, it also improves elasticity, which also promotes a youthful look.
Dehydration can contribute to sun damage, including causing your skin to burn more easily than normal. Proper hydration, on the other hand, may help the skin combat some effects of sun exposure. However, you should always wear sunscreen to reduce the effects of UV radiation on the skin.
Another great benefit of hydrated skin is that it heals more quickly than dehydrated skin. This applies to cuts, scrapes, and sunburns. it also adds a layer of protection from environmental stressors, such as pollution and bacteria. Finally, hydration can help keep acne and related scarring at bay.
Hydration From Inside Out
True skin hydration occurs from the inside out. That is why adapting lifestyle habits can help you achieve healthier skin. Some habits that you might want to consider adopting include getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and drinking plenty of water. That’s right: keeping your whole body hydrated can help you achieve your skin moisture goals.
Hydration vs Moisturization
Hydrating products help the skin absorb water more easily. By infusing cells with water, they plump and smooth the skin. Hydration comes from adding moisture to the body and skin.
If hydration is delivering moisture to the skin, moisturization involves keeping it there. Moisturizers act to seal in the moisture that is already present in your skin. That is why applying a moisturizer day and night on top of a hydrating formula can produce excellent results
Proper skin hydration can help you achieve a more even, smoother complexion. For the best results, you want to add moisture to the skin with hydrating products, and then help seal it in with a quality moisturizer. This should all be part of a complete skincare routine that involves gentle cleansing and sunscreen.
