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How to tell the difference between ageing signs and dehydration

How to tell the difference between ageing signs and dehydration

If you’ve noticed fine lines and wrinkles beginning to appear for the first time, you may assume that they’re caused by age. But this is actually just one part of the story and ageing signs can often be confused with dehydration. So how can you tell the difference between premature ageing and dehydration lines?

Dehydration in the skin can affect all skin types and is caused by multiple factors in our environment - from hard water, air conditioning, pollution and even medication. These factors compromise the skin’s natural protective barrier which allows hyaluronic acid and water to leak from the skin. The result? Dry skin that’s lacking in plumpness and often feels tight – especially after cleansing.

Premature ageing doesn’t cause any discomfort in the way dehydration does, and is predominantly caused by environmental factors. Ageing signs are also more visible and anchored than dehydration lines. Dehydration lines, on the other hand, are seen in a variety of places all at once and make the skin appear tight with lost elasticity.

The good news is that as dehydration is caused by barrier dysfunction, it can be corrected quickly with the right skincare. Premature ageing signs can also be improved and plumped with skincare rich in humectants such as hyaluronic acid. This hydrating ingredient penetrates the cells of the skin, helping to increase the production of collagen and elastin while smoothing the appearance of the skin.

For Premature Ageing
The Product: Hyalu B5

Hyalu B5 is an intensely hydrating serum enriched with hyaluronic acid that is clinically proven to re-plump the skin and accelerate skin repair. This makes it great at treating signs of ageing in complexions that have a loss of volume and skin elasticity. Its formula contains vitamin B5 and two different-sized molecules of hyaluronic acid: the first re-plumps the surface of the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles, while the smaller molecule penetrates deeper into the skin to increase skin volume.

Follow this with a vitamin C serum such as La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C-10. This active product will help to prevent further environmental damage and work alongside Hyalu B5 to prevent premature ageing.

For Dehydration Lines
The Product: Hydraphase Intense Serum

Hydraphase Intense Serum has a highly concentrated formula that contains hyaluronic acid to plump and smooth the skin, and amino acids to strengthen the barrier function and prevent further moisture loss. This can be followed with a moisturiser such as Hydraphase Intense Riche/ Light Moisturiser or Hydraphase HA that contains both high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. For an extra intense dose of hydration, you can also add Hydraphase Intense Masque into your evening skincare routine.

Don’t forget sunscreen
Whether your concern is ageing or dehydration, you should always end your daytime routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+ will help to protect your skin from harmful UVA/ UVB rays and environmental aggressors throughout the year.


Shop La Roche-Posay’s Hydraphase and Hyalu B5 skincare ranges

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