Not sure if you need natural hydrating skincare? Let’s first define dehydrated skin versus skin that is dry skin. Dehydrated skin is lacking water meaning it needs hydration, while dry skin is lacking oil and needs to be moisturised. Dehydrated skin is a skin condition, not a skin type and can be easily treated with the right products. Dehydration can affect all skin types and is most commonly the outcome of environmental aggressors. Think of how your skin looks after a long haul flight or the morning after that fun night out downing one too many martinis; this is dehydration. The good news is, dehydrated skin is relatively easy to address.

The Best Hydrating Skincare

Moisturisers that contain hydrating ingredients ensure the skin is getting all the water it needs to fight dehydration, premature ageing and environmental damage. Hydrating skincare can be one targeted product in the form of a mist, serum, moisturiser or mask or several products throughout your whole skincare regimen. These topical hydrators help to carry water to the cells, improving the skin’s ability to absorb moisture and nutrients. Moisturisers in turn seal in this moisture to build the skin’s protective barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), leading to smoother and more hydrated looking skin.

Nature provides us with an abundant source of hydrating skincare ingredients. These are generally water-soluble, multi-functional actives that won’t clog the pores and are devoid of any harsh side effects. They are generally well tolerated by all skin types. They can be found in all-natural treatment serums, moisturisers/balms, face masks as well as in an active face mist and eye cream. Here are the best performing natural ingredients for hydration:

Hyaluronic Acid is a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in the skin. It helps to bind water to collagen, trapping it in the skin for a fresh, plump and full appearance. A good performing, high-quality Hyaluronic Acid increases hydration in the skin holding up to 1000x its weight in water. As we age our ability to produce collagen and hyaluronic acid naturally deteriorates leaving skin more prone to dehydration causing the skin to look dull, less radiant and more wrinkled. Creating a hydrating skincare regimen that includes Hyaluronic Acid products is beneficial for healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Aloe Vera is a naturally derived plant ingredient revered for its soothing properties. Rich in vitamins A, C, D and E, plus minerals like zinc, potassium and magnesium and amino acids it has a miraculous effect on all skin types preventing transepidermal water loss while soothing inflammation.

Honey is a potent humectant meaning it can both draw out and retain moisture, hydrating and plumping the skin. It is a wonderful ingredient for problematic skin conditions and mature skin types keeping the complexion clear and bright.

Glycerin is a humectant moisturising agent that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin from deeper levels of your skin and the air. Glycerin in products works to gradually improve the texture of the complexion for smooth and supple skin. Vegetable glycerin is also a barrier helping to protect your skin from the elements, including wind and cold that can exacerbate dehydration of the skin.

For best results, your hydrating serum and moisturiser should be applied to clean skin in the morning (before your natural SPF) and at night before your face oil.