Were you also someone who thought a hydrator and a moisturizer was the same thing? The phrases ‘hydrator’ and ‘moisturizer’ are frequently used interchangeably. But much to everyone's ( and your) shock, they are very different from each other. As a result, regular consumers become perplexed. 

Imagine you're at the drugstore, and there is a huge range of items in front of you, all claiming to provide hydration and moisturization. How can you know which is appropriate and will meet your skin needs? Panic no more, because we are going to dive deeper into the hydrator vs. moisturizer dispute. Let's find out! 

What are hydrators? 

Hydrators are skincare products that contain humectants, they aid in the absorption of water into the skin. Water-soluble humectants aid in increasing the water content of skin cells without clogging pores. Sometimes, moisturizer won't be enough, the skin might feel extra dehydrated and will need more moisture, especially during winter. It is excellent for the skin when it feels itchy and extremely dry. Hyaluronic acid, Glycerin, Aloe vera, glycolic acid, and snail mucin are a few examples of hydrators. 

What are moisturizers?

Moisturizers are creams or lotions that are formulated with emollients that aid in keeping the skin hydrated. They help in locking in moisture and protecting the skin from pollutants and allergens. With continuous usage, they can strengthen and maintain the skin barrier. Depending on the season and skin type, the formulation may be lighter or heavier. To speak in broader terms, you can apply a light gel or lotion in the spring and summer and a heavier cream in the dry, chilly winter.

Choose a light, oil-free, non-comedogenic product, typically in the form of a lotion or emulsion, if you have oily, acne-prone skin. Rich creams with occlusive and emollient ingredients work best for dry, sensitive skin on both the face and body, whereas combination skin can use either a lotion or a cream depending on your skin's needs.

Difference between moisturizer and hydrator 

What does your skin need: hydrator, moisturizer, or both?

Skincare experts believe both hydration and moisturization are essential for all skin types. The ratio of required hydration and moisturization, however, differs from one skin type to another. If you have dry skin, a thicker moisturizer would be essential along with products based on hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. 

If your skin is flaky, lackluster, or has visible fine lines and damage, it implies the skin is dehydrated. A very important thing to note here is, that you can have moisturized skin that lacks water and is dehydrated or skin that is hydrated but lacks moisture and is dry. Whatever the case is, Foxtale’s hydration duo is here to your rescue. It includes a wash-off hydrating cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin and a smoothening moisturizer that prevents dryness. 

What to use if you have dry, flaky skin?

Especially for those with dry and flaky skin, it is critical to choose a product that gives intense moisturization. A regular moisturizer would not suffice for such skin even after you hydrate thoroughly. Opt for a thicker moisturizer with ingredients like petrolatum and oils to get the extra boost of nourishment. Foxtale’s Ceramide moisturizer is one such product as it contains hydrogenated olive oil that is four times more effective than squalane.

What to use if you have dehydrated skin? 

For dehydrated skin, it is prudent to replenish and repair the lost water content. Hence use a hydrator with humectants like glycerine and hyaluronic acid to restore the plump and healthy appearance of the skin. Foxtale’s daily hydrating hyaluronic acid serum contains Hyaluronic acid which helps in making the skin plumper and provides 24-hour moisturization to the face. Top it off with a lightweight moisturizer that can get absorbed easily and nourishes the skin well. 

What to use if you have oily skin?

The oily skin also needs thorough hydration and moisturization though it seems otherwise due to the excess sebum. But the choice gets tricky since the skin already produces excess oil. In such a situation, water-based moisturizers are the best products to make your skin stay youthful and radiant.

Conclusion

While you might’ve learned the importance of both products and how distinct they actually are, the most natural way of keeping your skin hydrated is through drinking plenty of water. You can have fruit-infused water if drinking plain water seems like a task. In that way, you get all the nutrients you need along with the goodness. Hydrating yourself will give you skin that is glowy and radiant all over. Combining skincare products that provide you with moisturization and following natural remedies to hydration will give you the result you’ve been looking for! 

FAQs

1.Which is better hydrating or moisturizing?

Skin feels soft and elastic when it is hydrated, but if the water may evaporate, the feeling won't stay for very long. On the other hand, applying moisturizing lotions and creams to dry skin may help it feel smoother for a short period of time.

2.Does dry skin need hydration or moisturizer?

Dry skin needs both hydration and moisturizer! While moisturizers seal in that water and preserve the skin barrier, hydrators combat dehydrated skin.

3.What goes first moisturizer or hydrating cream?

Since serums are more lightweight when compared to a moisturizer, they should be applied first. The skin will have more time to absorb the active components if the serum is applied first. Moisturizer is frequently the final step in skin care regimens.