Choosing the right skincare products begins with truly understanding your skin. Many people think they have dry skin when, in fact, their skin might simply be dehydrated. Confused? Don’t worry, we’re here to explain. Once you understand whether your skin is dry, dehydrated, or even a mix of both, you can create a skincare routine suited to your personal needs.
What's the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?
Dry skin is a skin type, meaning your skin naturally produces less sebum than normal or oily skin. Often, genetics are the main cause, but lifestyle and environmental factors (like hot showers, harsh winters, or even the natural aging process) can exacerbate it.
On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a temporary condition caused by a lack of water in the skin. It can result from a weakened skin barrier, insufficient hydration in your diet, using unsuitable skincare products, or exposure to extreme weather. Unlike dry skin, dehydrated skin can come and go. Furthermore, dehydrated skin may still produce a normal or even excessive amount of oil, which can make it hard to identify.
How to spot the signs
Dry skin often feels tight, flaky and void of oil. You might notice:
+ A rough, scaly texture
+ White flakes
+ Redness or irritation
+ Higher sensitivity to conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
Dehydrated skin can look dull and tired. The recognizable signs include:
+ Skin dullness
+ Dark under-eye circles
+ Fine lines and wrinkles caused by dehydration
+ Itchiness
How to take care of dry and dehydrated skin
Both dryness and dehydration can be tackled with a mindful skincare routine and healthy habits.
If you have dry skin, you focus should be on replenishing lost oils and strengthening your skin barrier. Look for nourishing ingredients such as Shea Butter, Squalane, Jojoba Oil, Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid. For dehydrated skin, hydration is key. Look for ingredients that boost water retention and soothe the skin, like Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera, Lactic Acid and Glycerin.
Skincare products for dry skin:
+ Dry Skin Solid Cleanser Bar – Nourished Daily
+ Hydrating Toning Mist – Inika Organic
+ Barrier Restore Butter – Sans [ceuticals]
Skincare products for dehydrated skin:
+ Bc Refresh Cleanser - Biologi
+ Collagen Calm Activated Mist – Retreatment Botanics
+ Dew Drop Hydrating Serum – Raww Cosmetics
Now that you know the difference between dry and dehydrated skin, it’s time to give your skin the care it craves! Discover our collection of skincare products specifically selected for dry or dehydrated skin: Explore here.
