I'm not going to lie. It took a minute for me to truly know how to recognize the difference for my skin.  You can easily get frustrated if you're not sure and end up using the wrong product.
Hopefully, after reading this article you'll be able to better tell the difference and finally start using the right product that'll solve the issue.
I'll start with sharing the basic information on both moisturization and hydration

Hydration

When we think of  hydration we naturally think of water. The definition of hydrate means to increase the water content. So when we relate this to skin care, hydrating means increasing the amount of water to our skin cells. The end result is our skin's complexion being more plump, smooth and healthy!  When our skin is properly hydrated it helps to diminish the signs of fine lines and wrinkles.
The best way to keep our skin hydrated is by drinking lots of water and using products that are high in water ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and honey, just to name a few. These types of ingredients are called humectants which help to retain moisture. Since our skin is the largest part of the body, it is last to absorb hydration.  This is why drinking water isn't always enough.
*Side note* Did you know that you should be drinking half your body weight in water? Girl yas! smh.. I'm not even going to tell you how much my daily water intake is...lol
 

Moisture

When I think of moisture I immediately think about  moist delicious cupcakes! Oh wait.. my bad that's a whole other topic for another day..lol   Ok ok ok...
We have sebaceous glands that are attached to our hair follicles which produce sebum.  Sebum is an  oily substance that lubricates and protects the skin from drying out causing premature aging.  Now for those who have clogged pores and oily skin, you may have an over production of sebum while those who have dry skin produce less sebum.  Moisture is very important to every skin type's facial regimen.

How can I tell the difference between the two?

We now know that hydrating  the skin means to bind water to our skin and moisturizing our skin means to "trap" keep the hydration aka water in not allowing it to escape.  This is why when it comes to the order in which we apply our products we apply our serums first because it contains hydrating humectants that feed the skin. Then we apply our moisturizer/facial oil because it will help trap in all that good hydration! The two work perfectly together creating a seamless balance in any regimen.

Dry vs. Dehydrated skin

Dehydrated skin lacks water and dry skin lacks oil. So it is very possible to have dry and oily skin at the same time. Your skin type can be oily and you still have dehydrated skin! This is why its so so very important ladies to make sure we are choosing the correct products and how we use them.

Signs of Dehydrated skin are:

• Itchy

• Dull

• Tight

• Sensitive

• Flaky

• May experience breakouts

• Can be oily and dry at the same time

What to Do with ‘Thirsty’ Skin

Because dehydrated skin is quite thirsty, you should focus on amping up your skincare regimen with moisture based ingredients as I stated earlier like aloe, honey and hyaluronic acid.  Make sure you are using your products in the correct order like your serums first then apply your moisturizers and or facial oils to make sure we are locking in the hydration.  And as always. drink drink drink water!!

Dry Skin

Signs of dry skin are :
 

• A feeling of skin tightness, especially after showering, bathing or swimming
• Skin that feels and looks rough
• Itching (pruritus)
• Slight to severe flaking, scaling or peeling
• Fine lines or cracks
• Gray, ashy skin
• Redness
• Deep cracks that may bleed

 
When our skin is dry, we lack moisture (oil) and the skin, as a result, tends to be rough, dry and flaky. You need to start implementing moisturizing ingredients into your skin care regimen asap! My first suggestion to helping dry skin is try to stop or minimize washing your face in the shower.  Most of us love a hot steaming shower and the temperature is just to harsh for our face.  It is best to wash our face with tepid water.
Low humidity can sometimes play a factor in drying your skin. Adding moisture back into the air is a way to help prevent your skin from becoming dry. I would suggest using a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time.
Hopefully, you have a better understanding of the differences between dry and dehydrated skin and now able to better take care of your skin.  Til next time....
Remember... Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself!
XOXO,
Marla
 
This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor.