While the terms dehydrated and dry skin tend to be used interchangeably,
they actually refer to two different conditions which have their own needs
and respond best to certain skincare ingredients.
What Is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is a term which refers to a particular skin type. Dry skin doesn't
naturally produce enough sebum or protective oils to maintain proper
hydration levels or fully shield it from environmental stressors, such as
harsh weather and UV.
Dry skin often looks rough or flaky and can develop red patches of
irritation. It may also be prone to developing cracks and can lead to other
uncomfortable sensitivities, such as psoriasis and eczema.
What Is Dehydrated Skin?
Whereas dry skin is a skin type, dehydrated skin can be used to describe
skin that has temporarily lost moisture levels in its uppermost layer.
Dehydration can impact the skin's barrier function and cause the skin to
look dull, often with surface-level fine lines and a delicate papery
texture. Dehydrated skin can also be oily, which gives it a shiny appearance
without helping to ease any of the tightness.
How To Treat Dry Skin
As dry skin is lacking in oils, introducing nourishing skincare products
into your morning and evening routine can improve texture and prevent
flakiness. Look for products that are formulated with ceramides and oils, as
they'll help to restore your oil levels and lock-in that valuable moisture.
Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops is a lightweight yet highly moisture-preserving
serum which can be used morning and evening on freshly cleansed skin. The
formula features vitamin B3 as well as hibiscus and Abyssinian oils, which
contain omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids to support your skin barrier.
SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is formulated with ceramides, fatty
acids and lipids, restoring the skin barrier and providing 8 hours of
hydration. With consistent use, you'll notice that your skin texture is
improved and your complexion will look smoother, plumper and more radiant.
How To Treat Dehydrated Skin
While dry skin benefits from oil, dehydrated skin needs water. As well as
increasing your water intake and limiting the consumption of alcohol and
caffeine, there are a range of moisture-boosting skincare products that can
treat dehydration and improve your complexion. Products containing
water-based hydrators will help to ease symptoms of dehydration, including
aloe vera, glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 serum is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which
will work to bind moisture into the skin. This oil-free gel formulation is
lightweight and designed to hydrate without clogging pores, and just three
drops can leave your skin feeling smoother and more supple.
SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan is another potent serum designed
to instantly smooth fine lines and leave skin feeling plumper and more
hydrated. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and Proxylane, this serum offers
up to 24 hours of hydration and can be used alongside vitamin C and
retinols, which are known to cause dehydration, particularly when being
introduced to a skincare routine for the first time.
General Tips For Treating Dry And Dehydrated Skin
When removing makeup and cleansing your skin, choose gentle products that
won't cause further irritation. Look for hydrating creams and lotions
formulated with calming ingredients, such as niacinamide, and properly
protect your skin with an SPF every day.