When it comes to achieving glowing, healthy skin, hydration is your secret ingredient. Think about it: our skin comprises around 64% water. This hydration level is critical for maintaining the skin’s barrier function, which is essential in protecting us from environmental aggressors like pollution, UV rays, and bacteria. When the skin is well-hydrated, it performs and looks smoother, plumper, and more glowy. Alternatively, when our skin is dehydrated, it’s more likely to become irritated, look dull, and, overall, be less healthy. 

If you’re wondering what the difference between hydration and moisture is, we’re breaking it down for you. 

Hydration vs. Moisture: What’s the Difference?

Hydration refers to water content in the skin, while moisture describes how well the skin retains that hydration. Ultimately, hydration is the skin having the right water content, while moisturization is about locking that water in with oils or emollients. A good skincare routine balances both.

The Benefits of Hydrated Skin

1. Plump Skin: When the skin is hydrated, it appears fuller and firmer, therefore helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines.
2. Improved Elasticity: Hydration supports the production of collagen and elastin, which are the building blocks that keep your skin supple.
3. Skincare Efficacy: When your skin is properly hydrated, it’s better able to absorb your skincare products, which allows them to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
4. Strengthened Skin Barrier: A well-hydrated skin barrier protects your skin from damaging environmental pollutants.
5. Balanced Skin: When your skin is dehydrated, it can cause your sebaceous glands to compensate for the lack of moisture by producing more oil. So, the key is to hydrate as much as possible to reduce the risk of creating excess oil that could lead to breakouts.

4 Hacks to Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Hack 1. Drink Water: Hydration starts from within, so the easiest thing you can do is drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure your skin cells stay hydrated. Aim for at least eight glasses a day or more if you exercise or live in a hot climate.

Hack 2. Use Hydrating Skincare Products: One of the easiest ways to hack hydrated skin is with skincare products designed to hydrate. Look for humectants, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera, which help boost skin moisture levels. Our AK Pure Skin Deep Hydration Serum deeply hydrates, moistures, and locks in moisture for up to 72 hours thanks to a blend of Oligo Sodium Hyaluronate, Saccharide Isomerate (a plant-derived ingredient that mimics the moisturizing agents found in the upper layer of the skin), and Panthenol. This efficacious blend also helps to enhance skin elasticity and strengthen the skin barrier while soothing and calming the skin.

Check out our super hydrating morning skin routine:

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Hack 3. Moisturize: Hydrating serums are great for adding water to your skin, but don’t forget to seal that hydration in with a good moisturizer. Choose one that suits your skin type; look for a lightweight gel if you have oily skin or a rich cream if you have dry or normal skin. Facial oils are also incredible for locking in moisture – check out why we always use them in our skincare routine here. (KAROLINA, link this to the blog post about facial oils).

Hack 4. Avoid Using Hot Water: Although having a hot shower feels great, it’s not the best for your skin. The heat can strip your skin of its natural oils, so when it comes to washing your face, we always recommend using lukewarm water instead.

Ultimately, hydration is essential for skin health and will make your skin look healthier, feel smoother, and function better! The key is to hydrate your skin from the inside and use products that will hydrate and trap moisture. For a quick cheat to getting a glow up in one routine, drink a large glass of water while you give yourself a mini facial using our thirst-quenching Intense Hydration Set, which includes a hydrating mask, serum, and oil. Happy hydrating!