Retaining Inner Hydration for Sensitive Skin

How can we address inner dryness in sensitive skin that keeps losing its moisture?

AESTURA Derma Lab has answered the real skin concerns from our customers.

Q. What is the difference between inner dryness and surface dryness? Do each of the solutions need to be different?
A. Inner dryness and surface dryness are terms often used for convenience in the beauty industry rather than academically distinct concepts. Therefore, no research has been conducted to study inner and surface dryness separately. Nevertheless, based on customer experiences, inner dryness refers to the skin that appears fine on the surface but feels tight, itchy, or irritated due to a lack of moisture within. On the other hand, surface dryness is when the skin shows visible signs of dehydration, such as flaking, cracking, and redness. Inner dryness refers to a condition where the skin produces a normal amount of oil, so there’s no flakiness, but it lacks internal moisture and the skin barrier is damaged, leading to continuous moisture loss. For inner dryness, it’s better to use products that contain hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, natural moisturizing factors, and ceramides, rather than oil-based products. However, surface dryness occurs when the skin is severely dehydrated on the surface. For this condition, it is advisable to use products that include enough oil to create an oil film, preventing further moisture loss.

Q. My makeup often looks flaky and doesn’t last long when I go out. Do you think this is because of inner dryness?
A. Cakey makeup is usually caused by unexfoliated dead skin cells, leading to uneven texture. This issue is often linked to surface dryness. Even if your skin seems fine after cleansing and applying skincare, it may lose surface moisture and become dry quickly. It is recommended to use a cream-based, deeply hydrating product.

Q. My cheeks suddenly feel dry and hot. Is this a sign of a damaged skin barrier?
A. Dryness can lead to a damaged skin barrier, making the skin more susceptible to environmental factors including temperature, wind, and irritants. This kind of irritation can manifest in various sensations, with a feeling of heat being one of them. As dry autumn and winter winds can worsen the symptom, it is better to use rich moisturizing products.

Q. I’m struggling with whiteheads, and I think it’s due to inner dryness.
A. Inner dryness can trigger excess oil production as a defense mechanism to prevent moisture loss. This overproduction of sebum may cause whiteheads. Since moisture can continuously evaporate when the skin barrier is compromised, it is important to use products that both replenish hydration and care for the barrier. If you have whiteheads, refrain from using products that are high in oil. To that end, we recommend ATOBARRIER365 HYDRO CERA-HA AMPOULE.

Q. My skin gets red and hot in chilly weather, so I apply cream frequently. However, I keep getting breakouts. Could this be because of the frequent cream application?
A. Creams typically contain the highest amount of oil among skincare products, and frequent application can result in excessive oil on the skin, potentially causing breakouts. Since redness and heat often stem from the damaged skin barrier due to dryness, choose products designed to care for the barrier. It is also best to opt for products that provide adequate hydration as redness and heat can be caused by a lack of moisture. We recommend using ATOBARRIER365 HYDRO CERA-HA AMPOULE.

Q. I’ve been trying the 5 Skin or 7 Skin Method, which is known for addressing inner dryness, but my makeup still separates and slides off.
A. Without detailed information about your skincare routine or the products used, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact cause. However, makeup may be separating because it’s applied over skincare products that haven’t been fully absorbed. While layering toner helps hydrate the skin, the provided moisture can evaporate quickly without proper barrier care. Consider simplifying your skincare routine and incorporating a hydrating ampoule that can also strengthen the skin barrier.

Q. I apply many layers of cream because of inner tightness, but it doesn’t absorb well. Washing my face in the morning has become a daunting task.
A. Tightness usually results from dryness. It seems that dryness in your skin hasn’t been fully addressed. Before applying cream, use a toner or ampoule to sufficiently hydrate the skin, and then lock in moisture with cream.

Q. My skin feels moist to the touch, but I still experience tightness as if it is dry. Why is that?
A. Even if your skin feels hydrated on the surface, inner dryness can cause tightness. In particular, right after applying skincare products, the keratin layer of the skin temporarily retains moisture and oil, making it seem problem-free. However, if the skin barrier is subtly damaged, the provided moisture can easily evaporate, leading to persistent tightness. It is desirable to use products that hydrate and care for the skin barrier at the same time.

Q. Can I use HYDRO CERA-HA AMPOULE with a functional serum like retinol?
A. Yes, it can be used with retinol. However, retinol can be slightly irritating depending on the concentration and product, especially for sensitive skin. So, make sure to introduce retinol gradually to allow your skin time to adjust. If your skin barrier is weakened, the irritation may feel more pronounced. In such cases, pair retinol with ceramide-containing products.