Understanding Dry Skin and Hydration

Calgary’s winters are notoriously harsh - not just for the roads but for your skin as well. 

The combination of cold, dry air outside and heated indoor environments strips the skin of moisture, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, and irritated. 

Even in the summer, air conditioning contributes to dehydration, making skin care an essential, year-round concern.

But what exactly is dry skin? Understanding the difference between hydration and moisturization is key to keeping your skin healthy.

What Is Dryness? Hydration vs. Moisturization

Many people think drinking more water will solve dry skin, but the truth is: your skin gets its hydration from external sources.

• Hydration refers to the water content in your skin. Skin cannot produce water on its own, which is why it needs hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture.

• Moisturization is different—it refers to the lipids (oils) in the skin that help lock in hydration. If your skin is producing excess oil while still feeling dry, it’s likely compensating for dehydration.

This means that you can have oily and dry skin at the same time.

How to Restore Hydration & Strengthen Your Skin Barrier

To effectively hydrate your skin, you need to focus on balance. Simply applying moisturizer without proper hydration will seal in dryness, while using hydrating products without locking them in can cause water to evaporate.

Your skin’s ability to stay hydrated depends on the moisture barrier - a layer of lipids that helps retain water. If this barrier is compromised due to harsh weather, improper skincare, or over-exfoliation, your skin loses hydration more quickly.

Key hydrating ingredients that help replenish water include:

✔️ Hyaluronic Acid – A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin
✔️ Peptides – Strengthen and repair the skin barrier
✔️ Glycerin – Attracts water and improves hydration
✔️ Ceramides – Help maintain the skin’s protective barrier

Dry Skin Routine for Harsh Winters

To combat Calgary’s winter dryness, follow this hydration-focused skincare routine:

✅ Gentle Cleansing – Use a hydrating cleanser that preserves natural oils.
✅ Hydrating Serums – Apply a hyaluronic acid-based serum to draw moisture into the skin.
✅ Moisturizer with Lipids – Lock in hydration with a rich, nourishing moisturizer.
✅ Facial Oils (Optional) – If extra dry, layer a facial oil over your moisturizer.
✅ SPF Protection – Yes, even in winter! UV rays further dehydrate the skin.

At Moderm Laser & Aesthetics, we highly recommend medical-grade products from Vivier, formulated to restore hydration and protect the skin barrier.

Recommended Products from Vivier

💦 Ultra Hydrating Mask – A luxurious mask that deeply hydrates and soothes dry, irritated skin. Perfect for intense hydration and skin repair.

🌟 Kine-C – A powerful antioxidant serum with Vitamin C and peptides, designed to brighten, firm, and hydrate while protecting against environmental damage.

💧 Ultimage (Hyaluronic Acid & Neuropeptides) – A deep hydration powerhouse that plumps, smooths, and replenishes moisture loss. Ideal for boosting hydration and reducing fine lines.

🧴 Lexxel – A rich, medical-grade moisturizer that calms, nourishes, and prevents moisture loss. Perfect for sensitive, dry, and dehydrated skin.

💡 Good news! You can get all of these at Moderm, and with our VIP Membership, you’ll save 20% - making them more affordable than buying directly from the manufacturer!

Hydration Beyond Skincare: Lifestyle Tips for Dry Skin

In addition to using the right skincare, here are extra ways to keep your skin hydrated:

💧 Use a humidifier – Adds moisture to the air, preventing excessive dryness.
💧 Limit hot showers – Hot water strips natural oils; opt for lukewarm instead.
💧 Drink enough water – While it won’t fix dry skin alone, internal hydration supports overall skin health.
💧 Protect your skin from the elements – Wear scarves or face coverings in harsh winter winds.

Book a Free Consultation for Your Personalized Hydration Plan

Don’t let dry skin take over this winter. At Moderm Laser & Aesthetics, we specialize in hydrating facials, microneedling, and laser skin therapy to deeply restore and protect your skin.

📅 Book your free consultation today at modermlaser.com
📞 Call us at 403-523-0550

Let’s create the perfect skincare plan for healthy, radiant, and hydrated skin all year round!