INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION When we talk about healthy skin, hydration and moisturisation often get mixed up. Though they work together, each serves a distinct purpose. Let’s explore why both are essential, and when to choose a hydrating lotion vs a nourishing cream. Hydration means adding water to the skin. Think of skin cells like tiny water balloons—when full, they look plump and feel supple. Hydrating products contain humectants such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or urea. These draw moisture from the air or deeper layers of skin, lifting water into the outer layer. Signs you need hydration: 1.Fine lines that appear when the skin is pinched 2.Dull, tight or crepe-like texture 3.Shallow dehydration lines A light, water-based product—such as a hydrating lotion for the face—is ideal. These feel fresh and are absorbed fast. WHAT IS MOISTURISATION? WHAT IS MOISTURISATION? Moisturisation focuses on oil, not water. Its goal is to seal in hydration and prevent water loss. Moisturisers include three types of ingredients: 1.Humectants (water magnets) 2.Occlusives (create a barrier—e.g., petrolatum, lanolin) 3.Emollients (fill gaps between skin cells—e.g., fatty acids, shea butter) If your skin is dry, flaky or cracked, it lacks oil and needs a more protective layer. For most people, the ideal routine blends hydration and moisturisation. First, apply a hydrating serum or light lotion to add water. Then use a richer product— like a face hydrating cream —that includes both humectants and occlusives, so the water stays locked in and the skin barrier gets support. Choosing the right product depends on your skin type and what it’s lacking. If your skin is dehydrated and lacks water, it will benefit most from hydration—using a hydrating lotion with humectants can help restore suppleness. Dry skin, which lacks oil, needs moisturisation to strengthen the barrier and reduce flakiness, so a rich cream with occlusives or emollients works best. If you have normal or combination skin, you’ll likely need both hydration and moisturisation—a face hydrating cream that blends water-attracting and sealing ingredients offers a balanced solution. Oily skin still needs hydration to avoid imbalance, but a light gel or lotion with humectants will do the job without making it greasy. Lotions are lighter, with more water and less oil. They’re great for day use and suited to normal to slightly dry skin. 1.Creams are thicker, richer, and better for dry or mature skin. 2.Oils cannot hydrate—they only moisturise by sealing in water. 1.Cleanse skin gently (no stripping). 2.Apply hydrating lotion for the face while the skin is still a bit damp. 3.After absorption, follow with a moisturising lotion for the face to seal it in. In dry weather or at night, you can add a light oil as the final layer to further prevent moisture loss. Watch how your skin reacts. If it tightens, add hydration. If it flakes, add moisturisation. 1. Choose products with labels like “humectant”, “occlusive” or “emollient”. 1. In winter or air-conditioned spaces, your skin may need more moisturisation. In warm/humid climates, hydration may suffice. TIPS TO GET IT RIGHT TIPS TO GET IT RIGHT Healthy skin thrives when balanced with both water and oil. Hydrating products replenish water, moisturisers lock it in. Use each wisely according to what your skin shows. A proper combo—a lotion first, then a cream—gives you that plump, soft, resilient complexion we all want. THANK YOU THANK YOU