Is There a Difference Between Emulsions and Moisturisers?

Anybody can tell you that hydrated skin is the foundation of healthy skin. The tricky part is ensuring that your skin remains hydrated. The way to do that is by creating the perfect and most effective balance of oil and water. Both of these are crucial for healthier and more nourished skin that functions optimally.

fresh Beauty HQ is able to attain the desired balance by incorporating both emulsions and moisturisers in our routines for longer-lasting hydration. Today we’re taking a closer look at the key differences between the two, as well as exploring the main benefits of each.

What is an emulsion?

Emulsions can be defined as thin, fluid elixirs that offer similar benefits to moisturisers. However, they have a weightless milky consistency that allows for fast absorption into the skin. Emulsions contain two liquid substances that don’t dissolve when combined, thus the need to shake them well before use.

The popularity of and demand for the moisturising subcategory in the Eastern part of the world is well-established, but there’s evidently an increase in the West, too. This is mostly due to consumers pursuing lightweight moisturisers.

Emulsions are lighter because they typically comprise oil and water, creating a unique solution that ultimately helps to balance the oil and water levels in the skin. This is vital for the skin to function well.

Emulsions, like serums, cater for different skin concerns, including dryness, dehydration, fine lines and wrinkles. Unlike serums, however, emulsions contain highly emollient ingredients. This creates a protective barrier to retain hydration and boost the skin’s barrier health. It’s not uncommon for emulsions to be used instead of a moisturiser for dry skin as the final step in one’s skincare routine.

Simply put, emulsions are fast-absorbing, oil-in-water solutions that deliver intense hydration, but without the added weight and richness of a moisturiser.

Are there any benefits to adding emulsions to skincare routine?

Despite the differences, emulsions offer many of the same benefits as moisturisers, which is why they may be preferred by people who don’t want anything heavy on their skin. A good example of this is the new Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Emulsion. The innovative milky formula—infused with damask rose extract, hyaluronic acid and yarrow extract—is deeply hydrating. It’s also vital for balancing the skin’s oil-water ratio for smooth and softer skin.

Additionally, emulsion skincare has a plumping and smoothing effect, ultimately minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as enlarged pores and rough texture. With continuous use, well-balanced and hydrated skin isn’t far away.

What is a moisturiser?

Moisturisers are also called creams. They are thicker and used as the last step in one’s skincare routine. They lock in hydration so the skin stays healthy and strong. Similar to emulsions, a face moisturiser creates a protective barrier between the skin and external elements to keep harmful things out. However, moisturisers aren’t as lightweight, milky or fluid as emulsions.

One prime example of this is the Rose Deep Hydration Moisturiser, suitable for anyone who prefers richer formulas. It’s also a great pick for people with severely dry skin because of its skin-soothing ingredients aimed at keeping the skin in its best condition. There are moisturisers for different skin types and concerns, depending on your unique needs, so you can pick the exact right one for your needs.

So, moisturisers are similar to emulsions in that they lock in hydration and keep contaminants out. However, they’re thicker in texture and don’t sink into the skin as quickly.

Are there any benefits to adding moisturisers to skincare routine?

One of the key benefits of a moisturiser is to seal in hydration and lock in the core benefits of the products that were applied first in your routine, allowing them to penetrate the skin better without moisture evaporating soon after application. Moreover, many moisturisers contain ingredients that help to smooth fine lines, wrinkles and any unwanted texture. With a moisturiser, you can expect skin to look plump and hydrated.

Is it necessary to include both in your skincare routine?

Whether or not to include both emulsions and moisturisers in your skincare routine depends on your skin type and concerns. If you struggle with severely dehydrated or dry skin, you will definitely benefit from the double dose of moisture and hydration.

Those with oily skin, however, should consider an emulsion over a moisturiser because the lightweight formula works to level out the oil and water in the skin, so it stays balanced.

For the lucky few with pretty normal and unfussy skin, you can get away with using either one, depending on which consistency you prefer.

Take your pick with fresh

Regardless of your skin type, you can benefit from the use of both emulsions and moisturisers. Consider them additional tools to brighten skin tone without breaking a sweat.

Shop fresh’s new Rose Deep Hydration Balancing Emulsion and Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Moisturiser to find out what all the hype is about!