The terms hydration and moisturising are often used interchangeably in skincare, but they refer to two different things your skin needs:
✅ Hydration = Adding Water
- What it means: Hydration is about increasing the water content in the skin.
- Hydrating ingredients: These are called humectants, and they draw water into the skin.
- Examples:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Aloe vera
- Panthenol
- Best for:
- Dehydrated skin (tight, dull, flaky)
- All skin types, especially if your skin feels thirsty or lacks bounce
✅ Moisturising = Locking in Water
- What it means: Moisturising is about sealing in hydration and preventing water loss by reinforcing the skin’s barrier.
- Moisturising ingredients: These are usually emollients and occlusives.
- Examples:
- Oils (jojoba, argan, rosehip)
- Butters (shea, cocoa)
- Squalane
- Dimethicone
- Lanolin
- Best for:
- Dry skin (lacking oil and/or has a compromised barrier)
- Cold, windy climates or after exfoliation
🔄 How They Work Together
- Hydration brings water into the skin.
- Moisturising traps that water and protects the skin barrier.
- Think of it like:
- Hydrator = drinking water
- Moisturiser = applying lip balm to prevent chapping
💡 Tip:
For best results, apply a hydrating serum first, then seal it in with a moisturiser.