Hydration ≠ Moisturization! 90% of people can't tell the difference!

After all these years of hydrating, has it really been in vain?

Whenever our skin becomes dry, rough, and our pores appear enlarged, do we start desperately hydrating? We think that if we hydrate enough, our face will become moisturized! However, even if we replenish our skin with water every day, why does our face still feel dry? What's the reason behind this? In fact, hydrating and moisturizing are two different processes. Let's take a closer look! 1. What is hydration? What is moisturization? Hydration: Providing moisture to the skin. It's like pouring water into an empty bottle. Moisturization: Sealing in the skin's moisture. Like putting a cap on the bottle to prevent the water from leaking out. In the skincare routine, our goal is to hydrate first and then moisturize. The relationship between hydration and moisturization: Hydration and moisturization aim to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and smooth. Although they are not the same, their combined effect is essential. Therefore, hydration and moisturization are inseparable! 2. Products for hydration and moisturization: Hydration: Toner/moisturizing water replenishes the skin with water. Moisturization: Essence, lotion, and cream form a protective barrier on the skin, effectively sealing in moisture. Note: Sheet masks are generally focused on hydration. After using a sheet mask, it's important to follow up with skincare to enhance moisturization. TIPS: When choosing products, you can also consider seasonal variations. In the summer, use relatively lightweight products for hydration and moisturization, while in winter, opt for products with higher oil content. 3. The difference between hydration and moisturization: ① Different functions: Hydration: Hydration directly replenishes water to skin cells, not only moisturizing the surface but also deeply nourishing and binding to dehydrated cells. In the skincare routine, using mist sprays or sheet masks is part of the hydration process. Moisturization: Moisturization aims to prevent water loss from the skin's surface. When the skin loses moisture, it evaporates from the surface, leading to a vicious cycle of dryness. Even if you add water, the effect is limited. ② Different ingredients: Many people say that hydrating products can also moisturize, but there are still some differences between hydrating and moisturizing products. In fact, they are skincare products with completely different compositions. Common ingredients in hydrating products: Collagen, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, polyols, etc. Common ingredients in moisturizing products: Ceramides, various plant oils, mineral oil, synthetic lipids, beeswax, etc. ③ Different water-locking abilities: Hydration: Hydrating products generally have a light texture and smaller molecules, but they are also prone to evaporation. Moisturization: Moisturizing products are often creamy and can form a protective film on the skin's surface, providing longer-lasting water-locking effects. 4. How to properly hydrate and moisturize: To properly hydrate and moisturize: ① Choose gentle cleansers: Daily cleansing is important, but cleansers often remove moisture and natural oils from the face. It is recommended to choose a gentle and moisturizing cleanser to minimize water loss. ② Use toner for hydration: Immediately after cleansing, use a toner to quickly relieve any tightness caused by washing your face. ③ Follow up with moisturizer/ lotion: Using moisturizer or lotion after toner can effectively hydrate and lock in moisture. For better moisturization, massage the product into the skin, ensuring deep absorption. ④ Occasionally use hydrating sheet masks: If your skin still feels dry after following the previous steps, it is recommended to use a hydrating sheet mask regularly after cleansing, and then continue with your regular moisturizing routine. 5. Different skin types have different needs: ① Hydration goal for oily skin: Maintaining a balance of water and oil. Analysis: The main issue is still dehydration, as the skin's moisture cannot be locked in due to an impaired barrier, leading to excessive oil production and dryness within. How to choose: Select oil-free, lightweight products to enhance hydration without burdening the skin. ② Hydration goal for dry skin: Intense hydration and moisturization. Analysis: Besides the initial need for intensive hydration, dry skin requires ongoing strong moisturization and appropriate oil replenishment. How to choose: Choose products with high levels of hydration and moisturizing ingredients to lock in moisture and provide nourishing repair. ③ Hydration goal for sensitive skin: Prioritize hydration and soothing. Analysis: Dryness is the main cause of sensitivity. During such times, it's crucial to focus on both hydration and moisturization. How to choose: Opt for products with simple formulations, avoiding alcohol, retinoids, salicylic acid, and other potentially irritating ingredients. ④ Hydration goal for combination/oily skin: Balancing moisture and freshness. Analysis: Excessive oil production occurs due to disrupted lipid connections between keratinocytes, leading to water loss and a combination of oiliness and dryness. How to choose: Select oil-free, lightweight products to enhance hydration without burdening the skin. #skincare #beauty #antiaging #eyemask#VIIcode #cosmetic #eyewrinkle