The Difference Between Moisturizers and Hydrators: Do You Need Both?
As skincare enthusiasts, we all know the importance of keeping our skin hydrated and moisturized. But what’s the difference between these two terms and why does it matter? In this blog post, we’ll get into the crucial role that both moisturizers and hydrators play in maintaining healthy and glowing skin.
What’s the Difference?
Moisturizers and hydrators are two different categories of skincare ingredients that serve distinct purposes for our skin. While moisturizers help to lock in moisture, hydrators work to increase the water content of our skin. In simpler terms, moisturizers act as a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin, or support our skin’s natural barrier, while hydrators increase the water levels in our skin.
It’s important to note that both moisturizers and hydrators are essential for achieving healthy, radiant skin. However, they work in different ways and have unique ingredients that target the specific needs of the skin.
Moisturizing Ingredients
Moisturizing products usually contain ingredients such as emollients, occlusives, and humectants. Emollients help to soften and smooth the skin’s surface by creating a film that fills in tiny cracks and gaps to protect the skin barrier. Occlusives create a protective layer on top of the skin, sealing in and preventing water from evaporating. Humectants attract moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated throughout the day.
Some common moisturizing ingredients include glycerin, squalene, and ceramides. These ingredients help to improve the skin’s barrier function, protecting it from external irritants and dryness.
Hydrating Ingredients
On the other hand, hydrators contain humectant ingredients that help to increase the water content in our skin cells. They are designed to penetrate deep into the skin and replenish moisture levels. Hydrating ingredients can include hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, heparan sulfate analog, sodium PCA, and aloe vera.
One of the main benefits of hydrators is their ability to provide immediate hydration to the skin. This makes them great for those with dry or dehydrated skin.
Why You Need Both
Now that we understand the differences between moisturizers and hydrators, it’s clear that they both play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin. While moisturizers help to lock in moisture and protect the skin’s barrier, hydrators provide deep hydration and improve water levels in our skin.
By using a combination of both moisturizers and hydrators, you can ensure that your skin is receiving the necessary love and protection it needs. This is especially important in medical skincare, where the skin may be more sensitive or compromised due to certain active treatment products.
Moisturizers and hydrators are both essential for maintaining healthy and glowing skin. They work in different ways, but together they provide a well-rounded approach to keeping our skin happy and protected. When it comes to medical skincare, it’s important to address both components and choose products with the right ingredients for your skin’s specific needs. However, when it comes to determining the right products for you, things can get a bit more nuanced. This is where your skincare pro comes in. The best move is to book a consultation with an esthetician so that you can work together and they’ll determine the right products for you based on your skin’s needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.
XOXO,
Your favorite estheticians
