HYDRATOR VS. MOISTURIZER; WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Skin is composed of 64% water, so hydration and moisture are kind of a big deal when it comes to skincare. But a supersized jug of water won’t necessarily get you the healthy skin you’re looking for—you may need a hydrator, a moisturizer or both.
The words hydrator and moisturizer are often used interchangeably, yet they aren’t the same thing. In fact, a person could have dehydrated but moisturized skin, or hydrated but dry skin. Understanding the difference between these two products can help you target your skin’s specific needs.
Let’s start with hydrators. These products help bring water to the skin cell itself. This doesn’t just improve appearances; it also increases your skin’s ability to absorb moisture and nutrients. Dehydrated cells = lackluster skin. Hydrated cells = healthy, radiant skin. You know which to choose.
Now let’s talk about moisturizers. Once your skin is hydrated, you can apply a moisturizer to help lock in hydration. The oils in moisturizers prevent water from evaporating off of your beautifully hydrated skin to keep it smooth and soft.
How do I know what my skin needs?
If hydrators increase your skin’s water content and moisturizers seal that moisture into your skin, which do you need?
Increasing fine lines and wrinkles or a dull lackluster complexion indicate you’re likely dealing with parched, dehydrated cells. So start with hydration. The easiest way to do that is to drink enough water. If that first step doesn’t get you the radiant skin you’re looking for, you may need to add a topical hydrator. (But don’t stop drinking that water!)
Hydrators are usually serums, and some of the best include hyaluronic acid. These fun little molecules are also naturally produced by our bodies and hold up to 1000 times their weight in water. Since we produce less hyaluronic acid as we age, an extra boost of hyaluronic acid from a quality hydrator is just the ticket to help plump skin cells and reduce the visibility of fine lines. As you shop for hydrators, look for products that also include glycerin, propylene glycol or urea to get the best hydration possible.
Now, what if you’re completely hydrated and are experiencing dry, flaky skin? This could be a sign that you need a moisturizer because your skin isn’t locking in its hydration. Hydration makes our skin soft, but it won’t stay that way if there is no oil to protect it from evaporating. Moisturizers are key here.
Selecting the right moisturizer can seem overwhelming when there are so many varieties, but with some trial and error you can find your perfect match. First, consider your skin type. Sensitive skin may respond better to a hypoallergenic moisturizer. Oily skin will likely prefer a lighter, oil-free product. Dry skin responds best to a richer moisturizer with ingredients like shea or cocoa butters, ceramides, or dimethicone. And remember—what works for you in the drier winter months may not be what your skin needs during the humid dog days of summer. With some patience (and flexibility!) you can find exactly what works best for your skin.
What if I have acne-prone or oily skin?
Toners and cleansers can strip skin of its natural oils and reduce hydration. This can cause your skin to compensate by producing even more oil to protect itself. Consequently, the wrong toner or cleanser used on your skin may cause your skin to become even more oily and congested, so make sure you are choosing something gentle with these products.
If you find yourself caught in this cycle, your skin likely needs hydration and a new cleanser. Begin your routine with a gentle cleanser that is milky or creamy in texture and consider adding a hydrating serum to your routine. You’ll probably love the results!
So, the next time you’re looking to improve your health and appearance, consider hydrators and moisturizers. Adding these simple products to your skincare routine may just help you fall in love with your skin.
Emily Giddings, RN