Dry vs Dehydrated Skin: What’s the Difference?
By Katherine Taylor, Skincare Expert at The Skin Gym
Embarking on a journey toward optimal skin health begins with understanding your skin’s specific needs. “Dry” and “dehydrated” skin are terms often used interchangeably, but they represent very different issues. Let’s demystify these terms and arm you with knowledge to tackle both with the right skincare arsenal.
Decoding Dry Skin
Dry skin is a skin type characterised by a lack of natural oils. We are all born with a genetic skin type either oily, normal or dry but you can also develop dry skin because of diet, certain products, environment and conditions.
Dry skin is best tackled topically and internally as the route cause often isn’t just superficial.
Signs and Solutions for Dry Skin
If your skin feels rough, and appears flaky, tight, itchy, cracked or fine lines this could be a sign of a dry skin.
To treat a dry skin try swapping to a cream or milk-based cleanser rather than soap-based. Don’t over cleanse the skin.
Turn down the temperature of the water you bathe with as this disturbs the skins natural oils.
Opt for a moisturiser rich in ceramides, antioxidants and vitamins.
Protect the skin when exposed to cold temperatures.
Make sure you get plenty of good fats in your diet such as oily fish, nuts and seeds.
Tailored Skincare for Dry Skin
Your skincare for dry skin should include a cleanser for dry skin that’s free from soaps to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. A favourite of mine is Environs Hydra Intense Cleanser as the hydrolysed oats help to lock in the water and protect the skin’s barrier.
AVST moisturiser is perfect to kick-start the skin’s natural moisture factors. Follow with a layer of super moisturiser for tight, flaky dry skin.
Super moisturiser is like a second skin and helps to keep moisture locked in for up to 48 hrs.
Takin a skincare supplement like Skin Omegas is key to nourish even the deepest layers of skin. We’ve seen amazing results with extremely dry skins and our Skin Omegas.
Unveiling Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, lacks water. It’s a condition that can affect anyone, even those with oily skin. Dehydrated skin can feel tight and can often show fine lines more prominently, leading to a dehydrated face that looks lacklustre.
Identifying and Treating Dehydrated Skin
To quench dehydrated skin, incorporate products like serums for dry skin that contain hydrating ingredients such as glycerine or hyaluronic acid. Limit the exposure to heating and aircon as this can lead to a dehydrated skin. Make sure you don’t over-exfoliate the skin as this can exasperate the condition.
Hydration Heroes
When it comes to dehydrated skin face remedies, layering is key. Start with a hydrating serum or face serum for dry skin and follow up with a good moisturizer for dry skin to seal in moisture. Click here for our guide on Skin Layering
Environs HA hydrating is a hyaluronic acid serum that acts like a drink for the skin.
Try feeding the skin from within by taking a hyaluronic acid supplement like Advanced Nutrition Programmes Skin Moisture Lock
Moisturising: A Dual Approach
Regardless of whether you’re dealing with dry or dehydrated skin, moisturizing is non-negotiable. Whether that’s in the form of a serum of a moisturiser using ingredients to stimulate the skins own moisture and keep the skin barrier string and healthy is key.
Crafting Your Skincare Routine
Your skincare routine for dry skin should consist of gentle cleansing, followed by targeted serums and a suitable moisturizer cream for dry skin. Those with dehydrated skin should focus on layering hydrating products like a product for dehydrated skin. Always look at treating the skin from within by making sure you have plenty of healthy fats in your diet as well as supplementing with Omegas and Hyaluronic acid
In Summary
Recognising whether you have dry or dehydrated skin is the cornerstone of effective skincare. With the right products and routines, you can address your skin’s unique needs and reveal a healthier, more radiant complexion.
Remember, skincare is a personal journey, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, be consistent, and don’t be afraid to tweak your routine as your skin’s needs evolve.
Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, take a moment to evaluate your skin.
Does it feel parched or flaky? Or does it feel tight and show fine lines when pinched?
Links to products I recommend
As always we’re here to guide you on your skincare journey so feel free to book a consultation with me so I can give you the best recommendations and advice.
Katherine Taylor,
Skincare Expert at The Skin Gym.
