Hydration explained – how to really keep your skin hydrated
4 min reading time
Learn how to truly keep your skin hydrated. Discover the science behind hydration, barrier repair, and the right products for lasting skin health.
The Truth About Hydration – How to Really Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Hydration is the absolute foundation of healthy skin. Without sufficient moisture, skin loses its shine, elasticity, and suppleness. Even the most expensive creams are ineffective if the skin barrier is dehydrated or damaged. But what does "well-hydrated" actually mean? And how do you ensure your skin not only absorbs moisture but also retains it? The experts at Diana Beauty & PRO HAAR share their knowledge on true hydration—from the inside and out.
What exactly is hydration?
Hydration isn't just adding water to the skin. It's the skin's ability to retain moisture in the stratum corneum. This happens thanks to a healthy skin barrier, natural lipids, and substances like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and urea , which act as "moisture magnets."
Well-hydrated skin feels supple, looks plump and shiny, and recovers faster after damage or irritation.
The main causes of moisture loss
✔ Climate & heating – dry air and temperature changes dry out the skin.
✔ Overly aggressive cleaning – removes natural oils and disrupts the pH.
✔ Drinking too little or having a one-sided diet – deficiency of essential fatty acids and minerals.
✔ UV radiation & pollution – cause oxidative stress and damage to the skin barrier.
✔ Overuse of active ingredients – acids or retinol without a balance can be drying.
Hydration Myths – What's Wrong?
❌ “Drinking plenty of water is enough.” – Drinking water is important, but moisture only reaches the skin if the barrier function is intact.
❌ "All moisturizers are the same." – False. Moisturizing creams consist of three types of active ingredients:
• Humectants (bind moisture: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol)
• Emollients (soften and replenish: oils, ceramides)
• Occlusives (lock in moisture: shea butter, petrolatum, squalane)
An effective cream combines these three categories.
The key: the skin barrier
The skin barrier is a thin but crucial layer of lipids, ceramides, and cholesterol that retains moisture in the skin. When this barrier is compromised, moisture evaporates more quickly, leaving skin feeling tight, dry, or irritated.
That's why barrier repair is the first step toward lasting hydration. Choose products with ceramides, niacinamide, fatty acids, and panthenol to restore the natural balance.
Hydration from within
What you eat and drink is reflected in your skin.
✔ Drink water or herbal tea regularly (about 1.5–2 liters per day).
✔ Eat omega-3 rich foods (salmon, flaxseed, walnuts).
✔ Add antioxidants (vitamin C, E, selenium).
✔ Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine – they dry out the skin.
A healthy lifestyle significantly enhances the effect of skincare.
Hydration in your skincare routine – the right order
🌞 Morning: mild cleansing → hydrating serum (with hyaluronic acid) → day cream → SPF
🌙 Evening: double cleansing → essence or toner → serum with panthenol or niacinamide → rich night cream or oil
Pro tip: Apply serums to slightly damp skin for maximum absorption. Follow with a moisturizing cream to prevent the effect from evaporating.
Common mistakes in hydration
❌ Only water mist without cream – actually causes more drying.
❌ Showering too hot – removes natural lipids.
❌ Products containing alcohol or perfume for dry skin.
❌ Don’t use SPF – sun breaks down hyaluronic acid and collagen.
Solution: Consistency, gentleness, and balance. Hydration is a daily process, not a one-time action.
The best moisturizing ingredients according to experts
✔ Hyaluronic acid – binds moisture deep in the skin.
✔ Glycerin – attracts and retains water.
✔ Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) – soothes and strengthens the skin barrier.
✔ Ceramides – replenish lipids and protect against moisture loss.
✔ Squalane – light oil that keeps the skin supple without clogging.
✔ Niacinamide – regulates sebum and improves moisture retention.
Conclusion – Hydration is the skin's oxygen
True hydration goes beyond a cream. It's a balance of water, lipids, and protection – supported by a healthy lifestyle. By consciously choosing formulas with proven active ingredients and using them consistently, your skin will stay plump, supple, and radiant .
