What Is The Difference Between Hydration and Moisturization?

When reading skincare product descriptions and benefits or skimming through blogs, you probably often find the words hydration and moisturization quite a few times. Sometimes they are even used in an interchangeable way, however they don't exactly have the same meaning.

Let's take a closer look into these 2 words and their role in skincare:

What Does Hydration Mean?

Hydration is about providing your skin with water to stay plump and soft. This means that hydrating ingredients are used to add water to your skin.

What are Two Popular Hydrating Ingredients Found in Skincare Products?

Number 1: Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid attracts 1,000 times its weight in water. It is a humectant so it draws and holds water.

Number 2: Glycerin

It draws moisture from the air into your skin, but it also plays a role in moisturization as well.

What Does Moisturization Mean?

Moisturization is what locks water in and keeps it retained in your skin by forming a protective layer.

What are Two Common Moisturizing Ingredients?

Number 1: Ceramides

Beneficial Moisturizers that help the skin retain moisture by supporting and repairing its natural protective barrier. 

Number 2: Shea Butter

It penetrates the skin deeply to provide long-lasting moisture. 

Hydration + Moisturization

For a complete skincare routine you need both for healthy skin. To keep your skin balanced you need hydration to provide your face with water and moisturization to lock it in. This way you avoid dryness, irritation and even premature aging signs.

You can learn how to layer your skincare using hydration serums and moisturizers in this Ken Cosmetics Blog.