Skin Flooding: The Hydration Holy Grail

Skin Flooding: The Hydration Holy Grail

By Maren Stratte

In the quest for healthy and glowing skin, we often focus on various skincare products and treatments that work to exfoliate the skin. However, one important aspect that is often overlooked is the role of proper hydration. Our skin, just like the rest of our body, relies on adequate hydration to maintain its health and radiance. One emerging technique that has gained attention in the skincare world is "skin flooding." Let's explore what skin flooding is, how it works, and the potential benefits it offers for achieving luminous skin.

Understanding Skin Flooding

Skin Flooding is a technique in applying skincare products where your skin is damp while layering serums and creams to lock in the the hydration in the skin.  Similar to "Slugging" which we have written about previously, (read about Slugging here), Skin Flooding is a better option for those looking to increase permeability of their skincare, and for those with sensitive skin!

The Process of Skin Flooding:

- Cleanse: A great opportunity to start with a double cleanse, the first cleanse to remove any makeup, pollution, sweat etc from the skin, and the second one can deeply cleanse the skin.

- Spritz: Next, use a hydration spray such as AVÈNE THERMAL SPRING WATER, or JANE IREDALE POMMIST to wet the skin.
Tip: use Thermal Spring Water at night for soothing and Pommist during the day for added antioxidant protection.

- Serums: Pat serums into the skin while it's still wet. Especially for any Hyaluronic Acid based serum that needs to cling to water molecules to effectively hydrate the skin. If you have sensitive skin, skip this step! Less is more and active serums can aggravate the skin.

- Hydration: The real magic of skin flooding lies in this step. Lock in the hydration with an emulsive cream like OBAGI HYDRATE LUXE or an ointment based in petrolatum such as VANICREAM MOISTURIZING OINTMENT. If your skin is dry to the touch before this step feel free to quickly spritz immediately before to refresh the moisture in the skin.

- Retinol: If using a retinol, apply it as your very last step at night only! It seems counterproductive, but studies are showing that retinols, especially tretinoin, can penetrate through the layers of skincare. Applying early in this routine can increase irritation to the skin, using after your moisturizer gives your skin a nice little buffer to avoid any excessive redness, or dryness.

- Protection: To conclude the regimen in the AM, a sunscreen is required to safeguard the freshly flooded skin from environmental stressors.

Benefits of Skin Flooding:

- Intense Hydration: Skin flooding provides an immediate and profound boost of hydration, helping to plump and smooth the skin. Hyaluronic acid, a key ingredient used in the process, is known for its ability to retain moisture, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.

- Enhanced Absorption: The gentle exfoliation and deep hydration of skin flooding pave the way for better absorption of other skincare products. This means that your serums, moisturizers, and treatments can penetrate more effectively, maximizing their benefits.

- Decreased Skin Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, this routine should be no stranger to you! We've been recommending the use of Avène Thermal Spring Water in the sensitive skin routine for years. Keeping your routine simple and encouraging the balance of the skin's barrier function helps sensitive to avoid reaction.

- Overall Skin Rejuvenation: Combined with regular treatments such as peels, HydraFacials, and Clear + Brilliant Laser, skin flooding can contribute to long-term skin health. It promotes collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and improves the overall appearance of the skin, giving you a youthful and radiant glow.

Skin flooding is a revolutionary skincare technique that offers a myriad of benefits for achieving healthy, hydrated, and radiant skin. By deeply infusing the skin with moisture and essential nutrients, this regimen is any easy way to transform your complexion and boost your confidence. So, if you're looking to give your skin the ultimate hydration it deserves, consider exploring the world of skin flooding and experience the remarkable results for yourself.

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2 comments

I have used some of the products you mention but there are some more I’d like to try and I was wondering if y’all have a person that can help with concerns and products that should be used for my concerns? Overall this info was fabulous

Deborah Daigle

Love this thank you for this wonderful info! 💖

Susie

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