Don’t be fooled. When it comes to your skin, the terms ‘dry’ and ‘dehydrated’ are not synonymous. While your skin type can be dry, dehydrated skin is a condition. In other words, dehydration is generally only temporary. All in all, there’s a lot of confusion around dryness and dehydration. So, here’s a quick rundown on the differences between the two and simple, easy remedies to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

"Your skin can become dehydrated regardless of your skin type, even if you have oily skin."

What is Dehydrated Skin and How Can You Tell?

If you have dry skin it means it lacks a natural ability to produce enough oil to keep it hydrated. Although dry skin can change with age and season, it is usually something you’re born with. This skin type manifests itself in the form of tightness, flakiness, redness and irritation. 

Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, means your skin has dried out and is deprived of water. Several external factors can cause your skin to dehydrate, including an unhealthy diet, lack of sleep, too much exposure to the sun, using the wrong skincare products, and overexposure to air conditioning or central heating. It’s also possible that you’re simply not drinking enough water on a regular basis. Note, your skin can become dehydrated regardless of your skin type, even if you have oily skin. 

Here's how to tell if your skin is dehydrated: aside from feeling extra tight, flakey and dull, you'll see a sudden increase in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and your under-eye circles may appear darker. On the other end of the spectrum, you should watch out for a sudden spike in oiliness, because your natural oil glands may try to overcompensate extreme dryness by producing excess sebum (oil).  

"Skin that’s dehydrated often compensates by producing more sebum (oil)."

How To Treat Dehydrated Skin

This may seem like a no-brainer but start by drinking lots of water––eight glasses a day at the very least, and make it regular! Also, try to consume lots of fruits and veggies rich in water content like broccoli, tomatoes, cucumber, oranges, and apples. Internal hydration is key.

Additionally, pay close attention to the skincare products you’re using. Steer clear of harsh cleansers and physical exfoliants with large beads and particles as these can strip your skin of moisture. It's also worth investing in a good facial serum; they are often packed with skin-nourishing active ingredients that target your specific skin concerns including dehydrated skin.

Above all, use a good moisturiser rich in nourishing active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, that won’t just moisturise the top layer of your skin, but will also hydrate the deeper layers of your skin and protect your skin's moisture barrier. 

If you know which measures to take, tackling and preventing dehydrated skin is easy enough, plus taking these recommended steps can help keep your dry skin in check too.

But, if you’re still having troubles finding skincare for your specific skin concerns, we're always here to help. Our personalised face serums and day creams are packed with nourishing ingredients, equipped to give your skin the moisture boost it needs! Take our quick skin assessment to find out the right ingredients for you, or try out your first personalised products below!
  

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