Everywhere you turn, brands are pushing endless products promising healthy, smooth, and radiant skin. So how do you decide what skincare products to purchase? When confronted with store aisles filled with countless options to hydrate and moisturize your skin, the first step is to understand the difference between the terms “hydrate” and “moisturize.” Many of us do not know that although brands use the terms “hydrate” and “moisturize” interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Yes, they are both skincare essentials in providing your skin with nourishment, but knowing what the difference is will help you determine what products are the best fit for your skin’s specific needs.

Let’s Define What “Hydrate” and “Moisturize” Both Mean

“Hydration” is the absorption of moisture from the air and then infusing your cells with water to improve your skin’s ability to absorb moisture and nutrients.

“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.

So... What’s the Difference?

Have you ever felt that your skin looks like it’s begging you to quench its thirst? That’s what hydrators and moisturizers are for. They both work to combat dryness and dehydration to help you achieve youthful, supple skin.

If you have dry skin, that means your skin is lacking oil and it needs to be moisturized.

If you have dehydrated skin, your skin lacks water and it needs to be hydrated.

Hydration makes our skin feel soft, but it won’t stay soft if there is no oil to protect that hydration from escaping. If hydration escapes, skin ends up dry and flaky. However, putting oil on dehydrated skin may visibly smooth it, but it will still be lacking that soft, bouncy feeling that comes from hydration.

How Do I Know If I Need a Hydrator, Moisturizer... or Both?

This is a great question!

If your skin is on the dry side or you notice that you are prone to dry, flaky skin, your skin barrier may not be locking in moisture. This is where moisturizers come in! Apply moisturizer to restore your skin’s plump and bouncy appearance. This is extremely useful during the winter when your skin is prone to dryness.

On the other hand, if you feel as though your skin is dull and any fine lines and wrinkles you have are becoming noticeable, you can see that your skin is dehydrated. Apply a hydrator to combat this issue and give your skin the much-needed nourishment.

What is The Right Hydrator or Moisturizer for You?

We all know that oftentimes, what we’re putting into our bodies is just as impactful on our skin as what we’re layering on it. Water is essential and drinking it is the easiest way for you to hydrate your skin.

When it comes to treating your skin from the outside, reach for powerful products to help you get through the seasons by keeping your skin moisture level at a balanced level. Dive into the new year with a youthful glow with Glow Ahead Face Oil, a face oil that will help deliver intense hydration, while Dive In Moisturizer is enriched with pentavitin (saccharide isomerate) which binds water to skin and creates a moisture barrier, providing up to 72 hours of deep hydration.<product>1,2</product>

You're officially ready to hydrate and moisturize! Any questions? Let us know by messaging @wander_beauty on Instagram!