Moisturizing was initially considered that the softness and suppleness of the epidermis depended on its fat content, derived from cutaneous sebum, so cosmetics containing fats and oils were applied, which gave rise to the first emollient emulsions.
Subsequent studies have shown that the elasticity, firmness and smooth, satiny appearance of the skin, which are visible characteristics of young skin, depend on the water content of the stratum corneum.
From then on, research was directed towards the study of all the processes of water loss from the skin and the search for substances capable of retaining water.
Water circulates continuously from the deep layers of the epidermis to the surface, where it evaporates, giving rise to what is known as insensible perspiration. This process is important in the water content of the stratum corneum, but it depends on this stratum whether or not it retains water, which will be less the drier the outside air is.
What is hydration?
Hydration is the act of moistening or mixing with water. We usually refer to hydration to indicate the amount of water that living beings need to survive.
Humans need to hydrate internally and externally. Many of the foods around us have large amounts of water. Fruits and vegetables can help us hydrate the body and avoid the problems associated with dehydration.
Skin hydration
Our skin holds 20% of the water we have in our body. This is why it is so important to keep the skin hydrated. If our body needs water to stay healthy, our skin needs it to maintain proper hydration levels.
The skin is the barrier that separates the external environment from our body. It is, therefore, the only layer of security we have and it is our duty to take care of it. Failure to do so will result in drier, wrinkled and aged skin. In fact, it is the stratum corneum that suffers most from the lack of water.
In addition to natural dehydration, several external agents can accelerate dehydration, such as heat, dry environments, solar radiation, pollution, tobacco and chemicals.
Water allows the dermis to maintain its structure, the collagen fibers to remain strong and the skin to remain elastic. Lack of hydration is manifested by dryness, lack of elasticity, lack of tone and wrinkles.
How to hydrate the skin
We can drink water, comply with the typical liter and a half per day, comply with a healthy diet, exercise and do not abuse the sun,
But even with this, we have to moisturize the skin externally to revitalize it and maintain its tone.
Moisturizing products are indispensable in a daily care routine, without the need for symptoms of dryness. Moisturizers and emollients are cosmetic products with great moisturizing properties, thanks to their ability to retain or release water.
On the other hand, we can add products that include active principles such as retinol, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants such as vitamin C. All of these help in cell regeneration and water retention.
As you know, not all skin is the same, so the same daily hygiene routine may not work for everyone. It is therefore advisable to see a specialist who can make better recommendations based on your skin type.
Commitment to quality
This text on hydration has been written by professional editors and reviewed by Sisneo’s medical-aesthetic team. In addition, we have relied on experts in medicine, engineering and aesthetics as a source of information, as well as specific studies to maintain the quality of what we publish.
At Sisneo Bioscience we are committed to publish truthful and contrasted information. And to update or correct it as soon as new knowledge becomes available.
Among others, we have used the following references:
- Farage MA, Miller KW, Berardesca E, Maibach HI. «Clinical implications of aging skin: cutaneous disorders in the elderly» en American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2009;10(2):73-86.
- Verdier-Sévrain S, Bonté F. «Skin hydration: a review on its molecular mechanisms» en J Cosmet Dermatol. 2007 Jun;6(2):75-82. doi: 10.1111/j.1473-2165.2007.00300.x. PMID: 17524122.
