TEWL & Skin Hydration: How to Prevent Transepidermal Water Loss for Healthy Skin
Ever feel that regardless of how much moisturizer you apply, your skin is dry or irritated by noon? That tight, uncomfortable sensation may not be a product problem but rather your skin's way of trying to tell you about transepidermal water loss, or TEWL.
TEWL can happen even to those with the most carefully considered skincare regimens. In this article, we'll explain what TEWL is, why it happens, and how you can take proactive measures to prevent it from occurring so your skin stays hydrated, healthy, and happy.
What Is TEWL, and How Does It Affect Your Skin?
TEWL is the natural water loss from the skin’s surface into the surrounding air. A certain amount of moisture loss is expected, but when TEWL is excessive, it leaves your skin vulnerable to dryness and irritation.
This is problematic because a weakened skin barrier is less effective at keeping water in. Often, the weather, over-exfoliating, or using harsh products can break down this barrier and lead to TEWL.
The result? Raw-feeling, itchy, or reactive skin, or all three at once. TEWL doesn't discriminate by skin type; it can occur in dry, oily, and combination skin. Unfortunately, treating it takes more than masking symptoms. It takes repairing your barrier and sealing in moisture at every turn.
Read more: Mushrooms in Skincare
The Role of Hydration in Preventing TEWL and Maintaining Skin Health
When you think of hydration, you may consider drinking more water. While internal hydration is essential, it’s only half the battle. Your skin needs topical help in the form of a good skincare product or two. Without it, even the most internally hydrated body can still experience dry, flaky skin.
Hydrating Ingredients That Actually Work
Let’s get real for a minute: not every ingredient is worth the buzz it receives. Some are overhyped, to be honest, and aren’t as beneficial as described. That’s why we rely on tried-and-tested, skin-friendly ingredients that yield real results.
Take sodium hyaluronate, which is found in many of our products. This molecule draws water into the skin and hydrates it deeply. It’s a star ingredient in any decent serum. Then, if you throw in calming oat kernel extract, antioxidant camellia oil, and plant-based glycerin, you have a blend that nourishes and hydrates the skin barrier without aggravating it.
Best Practices to Keep Your Skin Hydrated
One of the easiest ways to prevent TEWL? Apply products to damp skin, like a toner or deeply hydrating moisturizer. These products lock in moisture and stave off TEWL.
You should also ensure you use gentle cleansers that maintain your skin's pH balance and don't overlook the value of a rich night cream. A night cream can seal in moisture overnight, helping with barrier repair while you sleep.
Why Consistency is Everything – The Wrap-Up
The key to healthier, more hydrated skin isn't perfection; it's consistency. Giving your skin consistent, nourishing care helps reinforce its natural barrier. In the long term, this reduces TEWL, reduces signs of irritation, and provides your skin with the resilience it needs to radiate from within.
At Belagu Naturals, we believe your skincare routine should develop with your skin and not overwhelm it. To prevent water loss in your skin you can explore our collection of hydrating essentials, crafted to help keep your skin hydrated.
