As women, and especially as moms, we dedicate so much time to caring for others. It's important to remember to take care of ourselves too. One way to do that, of course, is by focusing on skincare because not only does it improve your health and the way you look, but the ritual of caring for your skin can, itself, be therapeutic.
If you’re in your forties or beyond, dry skin is likely an issue. So, do you hydrate or do you moisturize? And what is the difference?
If you're like most people, you probably use the terms hydrating and moisturizing interchangeably when talking about skincare. But these two terms refer to different concepts and both are important. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right products and prioritize self-care. Let’s break down what hydrating and moisturizing mean, their benefits, and how taking care of your skin can be a valuable moment for yourself. We'll also recommend our best products tailored for your skin type, so you can enjoy a radiant and rejuvenated complexion.
The Difference Between Hydrating and Moisturizing
Hydrating refers to adding water or increasing the water content in your skin. This is important because proper hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin. Hydrating products usually contain humectants, which attract water to the skin and help bind it there. Some popular humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and sorbitol. These ingredients are effective for all skin types, including oily skin, as they don't add oil or clog pores. Hydrating products can be in the form of toners, face mists, serums, or masks.
Moisturizing, on the other hand, involves creating a barrier on your skin's surface to prevent water loss and retain moisture. This is especially important for dry and sensitive skin types that are prone to flakiness, itchiness, and overall discomfort. Moisturizing products generally contain emollients and occlusives. Emollients fill in the gaps between skin cells, making your skin feel softer and smoother. Some common emollients include shea butter, ceramides, and squalane. Occlusives, on the other hand, create a protective layer on your skin, preventing water from escaping. Petrolatum, lanolin, and beeswax are examples of occlusives. Moisturizing products can come in the form of creams, lotions, or balms.
If you're wondering which one to prioritize, the answer is both. Hydrating and moisturizing are complementary steps that work together to keep your skin healthy and youthful.
Starting with a hydrating product helps to boost your skin's water content, preparing it to absorb the moisturizer better. Adding a moisturizer on top of your skin seals in the hydration and forms a protective layer that keeps environmental stressors at bay. The key is to choose hydrating and moisturizing products that are suited for your skin type. Here are two fabulous options you will love:
- Fresh Magnolia Glow Stick - This moisturizing balm is full of antioxidants and is formulated for normal, dry, and mature skin. Using the product over wet skin attracts water and locks it in. The powerful results of this nourishing blend can be seen in softer skin and reduced appearance of wrinkles as improved hydration visibly softens your face. It’s the perfect product to start your day with. Blot gently with a towel and allow a few minutes for absorption before applying your makeup.
- Gentle Radiance Daily Moisturizer: This gorgeous, light moisturizer is formulated specifically for sensitive and reactive skin types, but can be used quite effectively on all skin types. Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, this daily dose of nourishment acts as both a humectant and a moisturizer, and will leave your skin feeling soft and supple. Packed with botanical extracts like Mulberry Leaf, Calendula, and Magnolia Bark extracts - each working in harmony to give your skin the gentle radiance it deserves.
Conclusion
To sum it up, hydrating skincare products focus on increasing the water content in the skin, while moisturizing products aim to create a barrier that prevents water loss and retains moisture within the skin. Both hydration and moisturization are essential components of a well-rounded skincare routine to maintain healthy and balanced skin.
By focusing on caring for our skin, we are focusing on our well-being. As women, and particularly as moms, we often put the needs of others before our own. Remember that indulging in skincare for a few minutes a day is a beautiful way to rejuvenate your mind and feel good about yourself.