When it comes to skincare, ‘hydrating’ and ‘moisturising’ are often used interchangeably - but they’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference can help you make better choices for your skin, especially as the seasons change or your skin undergoes stress from diet, environment, or lifestyle.
Here at Duxmore Botanics, our ethos is rooted in an understanding of the skin’s natural needs, using the purest botanical ingredients. So let’s clear up the confusion and help you determine whether your skin needs hydration, moisturisation, or both.
What’s the Difference Between Hydration and Moisture?
Hydration refers to increasing the water content within the skin. When your skin is dehydrated, it’s lacking water. This can lead to a dull, tight, or even flaky complexion. Dehydration affects all skin types, including oily skin.
Moisturising is about sealing in hydration and preventing water loss by using oils or lipids to support the skin barrier. If your skin is dry, it's lacking oil. This can result in rough patches, sensitivity, or a compromised barrier that leaves your skin more vulnerable to environmental damage.
In short, dehydrated skin needs water, and dry skin needs oil.
Signs Your Skin is Dehydrated
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Tightness after cleansing
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Dullness or lack of glow
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More visible fine lines (especially around the eyes)
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Rough texture
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Flakiness without a dry or cracked feeling
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Oiliness (yes, your skin may overproduce oil to compensate!)
Signs Your Skin is Dry
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Flaking or peeling
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Itchiness or sensitivity
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A feeling of tightness all day, not just after cleansing
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Rough, sometimes cracked skin
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More prone to redness or irritation
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No oily areas, even in the T-zone
How to Rehydrate the Skin
Hydrating the skin starts from the inside out. Here are some of our top tips to help your skin maintain water levels:
#1 Drink More Water (But Not Just That)
Water is crucial, but hydration also depends on electrolytes and water retention. Make sure you’re consuming:
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Electrolyte-rich foods such as leafy greens, avocados, and bananas
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Herbal teas (like chamomile or nettle) that support detox and hydration
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Plenty of fruits and vegetables, which have a high water content
#2 Use Water-Based Serums Before Oils
Hydrating serums with humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera can draw moisture into the skin. Always apply these before your oil-based products.
Once your skin is hydrated, it’s important to lock that hydration in with a nourishing oil or moisturiser…
#3 Use a Barrier-Sealing Oil
Our Indulgent Face & Body Oil is a perfect choice. Crafted with nourishing botanicals such as rosehip seed oil, prickly pear and borage, it mimics the skin’s natural lipid structure, sealing in hydration and feeding your skin with essential fatty acids.
Use a few drops on damp skin (after cleansing or after applying a hydrating serum) to create a protective barrier. It works wonderfully on the face, neck, and body.
#4 Layering is Key
Hydration goes first, oil goes second. Think of it like this: water is the juice your skin drinks, and oil is the lid that keeps it from evaporating.
Our Tips for Keeping Skin Hydrated & Healthy
#1 Humidify Your Space
Indoor heating and air conditioning can strip moisture from the air and your skin. A humidifier (especially overnight) can help maintain optimal skin hydration.
#2 Avoid Over-Washing
Cleansing too often, especially with harsh soaps, can strip your skin of both water and natural oils. Opt for a gentle, non-foaming cleanser, and consider washing your face with just water in the morning if your skin feels balanced.
#3 Seal in Moisture During & Post-Shower
When in and after a shower, your skin is primed for hydration. Our Indulgent Body Scrub is applied to dry skin before bathing. Breathe in the therapeutic aromas, then step into a warm shower and melt away the sugar to leave your skin soft and smooth. Safflower seed oil will leave a delicate veil on your skin, leaving your skin feeling moisturised.
Once out, don’t wait to dry off fully, apply our Indulgent Face & Body Oil directly to damp skin to lock in moisture. This is especially beneficial for dry legs, arms, and elbows.
#4 Eat Skin-Supportive Foods
Healthy fats (like those in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts) help nourish your skin from the inside out. Vitamin E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are especially helpful for keeping skin supple and moisturised.
#5 Protect Against the Elements
Wind, sun, and cold can strip the skin barrier. In colder months, a richer oil provides a protective cushion against environmental stressors. And, of course, never skip sunscreen!
How to Tell What Your Skin Needs Today
Ask yourself these questions:
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Does my skin feel tight but still oily? → You’re likely dehydrated.
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Is my skin flaky and rough, even with regular water intake? → You may be dry.
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Does makeup sit strangely, or does my skin change by midday? → You could be experiencing both.
Tailor your routine based on how your skin feels each day. Some days may call for extra hydration, while others require more lipid support.
The Bottom Line
Hydrated skin is happy skin, but moisture is the secret to keeping it that way. By learning the difference between what your skin needs (water versus oil), you can create a more intuitive, effective skincare routine.
Your skin knows what it needs. We're just here to help you listen to it!