When we think about hydration in skincare, it’s easy to picture a single step: applying moisturiser. But achieving truly healthy, glowing skin goes far beyond that. Hydration is a holistic process - one that involves your skin barrier, lifestyle, environment, and the quality of ingredients you use.
What does "hydrated skin" really mean?
Hydrated skin isn’t just about how much cream you apply, it’s about how well your skin retains water. Your skin’s outer layer (the stratum corneum) acts as a barrier, keeping moisture in and environmental stressors out. When this barrier is compromised, water escapes more easily - a process known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL). According to the British Association of Dermatologists[1], maintaining a healthy skin barrier is essential for preventing dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.
Why moisturiser alone isn't enough
While moisturisers are important, they are only one part of your skincare routine. Hydration involves three key elements:
1. Attracting moisture (Humectants)
Ingredients like hyaluronic acid draw water into the skin. Look out for products containing hyaluronic acid or aloe vera, such as our Hydra+ Marine Cream.
2. Retaining Moisture (Emollients & Occlusives)
These help lock hydration in and smooth the skin’s surface. Look out for products containing jojoba or coconut oil, like our Nourishing Face Oil and products containing shea butter or carnauba wax, like our Marine Cleansing Balm.
3. Supporting the skin barrier
A strong barrier prevents moisture loss and keeps skin resilient. Seaweed is rich in powerful compounds like fucoidan, alginate, polyphenols and amino acids which support healthy, resilient skin.
Is dehydrated skin the same as dry skin?
Dry and dehydrated skin are often mistaken for the same concern, but they are actually quite different. Dry skin is a skin type caused by a lack of natural oils, while dehydrated skin is a temporary condition caused by a lack of water, meaning it can be effectively improved with the right hydration.
Hydration starts from within
Your skincare routine is only part of the story. Lifestyle plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin and environmental factors such as living in coastal, windy or dry climates can also accelerate moisture loss.
Key hydration habits:
-
Drink enough water - Around 6–8 glasses daily
-
Eat water-rich foods (like fruits and vegetables)
-
Limit dehydrating factors like excessive caffeine or alcohol
-
Get enough sleep to support skin repair
A 2015 study in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology [2] found that increased water intake can positively impact skin hydration and elasticity.
Building a hydrating skincare routine
For effective hydration, your routine should be layered and intentional:
-
Cleanse gently - Avoid stripping the natural oils from your skin and hydrate and nourish with ishga Active Cleansing Lotion or Marine Cleansing Balm.
-
Serum - Thanks to their smaller molecular size, serums can deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin for enhanced results.
-
Moisturise - Lock in hydration and protect the skin with a nourishing Marine Cream.
-
Facial oils - A face oil provides an extra layer of protection and will give your skin an extra boost of hydration.
-
Weekly treatments - Use an Exfoliating Face Mask to gently renew the skin and enhance the absorption of your skincare products.
Hydration is not a one-step solution. It’s a balance of nature, products and daily habits. By looking beyond moisturiser and embracing a more holistic approach, you can achieve glowing, radiant skin that reflects true skin health.
