Hydration vs Moisturization
A good number of people and even ‘experts’ tend to misuse these words or use them as if they are interchangeable. At NBSkincare we believe that hydration and moisturization are quite different things and it is important for users of skincare products to understand these terms as they are essential when it comes to selecting products based on skin needs or concerns.
*Both are key in providing skin with much-needed nourishment
So what‘s the difference?
While moisturizers and hydrators both address the importance of making sure the skin is getting all the water it needs to prevent dryness and dehydration, premature ageing and environmental stress. The difference lies in how they go about achieving these results.
Let‘s start with Hydration. Hydration is the process of absorbing moisture from the air and then infusing skin cells with water to help improve your skin‘s ability to absorb moisture and nutrients. If water flows out of the cells and the cells are dehydrated, they can become shrivelled, which leads to dull skin. Moisturizing is about trapping and locking in the moisture to build your skin’s natural protective barrier. This will prevent any water loss and ensure that your skin remains soft and smooth.
How do I know which I need???
It’s important to take note of your skin’s condition - dry or dehydrated. If your skin tends to be on the dry side, it’s easy to conclude that a good moisturizer is all you need to restore its lush appearance and youthful glow. BUT, it’s also possible that your skin may not be dry but dehydrated…in this case you need a hydrator.
Dry or Dehydrated? It’s important to take note of your skin’s condition. The skin has a natural lipid barrier that protects itself from damage and water loss. If you’re prone to having dry, flaky skin, it’s a tell-tale sign that it’s not producing enough lipid cells to form a protective barrier, making it unable to lock in moisture. And that’s where moisturizers come in.
A moisturizer’s job is to decrease the amount of water lost from the skin - to minimize transepidermal water loss. They lock and seal in moisture. A hydrators job is to increase the water content of the skin. They bind water to the skin.
Moisturizing is particularly helpful for skin that is dry and peeling or flaking. But, if your skin concern is a dull and lacklustre complexion with fine lines and wrinkles becoming more pronounced, your skin is more likely dehydrated. Dehydrated skin means the cells are starved of water. Moisturizers are oil-based products while hydrators are water-based. So, simply put, hydration equals water and moisturization equals oil. Best way to do both?? Drink water!
Our Brightening Body Lotion can provide both hydration and moisturization as it contains glycerin - a master hydrator and shea butter - a master moisturizer.
Shop our Brightening Body Lotion here
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