Understanding Dry Skin and Dehydrated Skin
Tori Douglas
Global Digital
3 min read
Find out what the key differences are between dry and dehydrated skin and how to treat them.
Dry skin or dehydrated skin – or perhaps both – could be the reason for dull-looking skin that’s unappealing and flaky. Skincare for dry skin and dehydrated skin is crucial! This is particularly true if you haven’t been prioritising skincare or the right moisturiser for you with the changing weather throughout the year. Board-certified dermatologist Dr Marisa Garshick is helping us understand these pertinent skin issues and how to overcome them for healthy-looking skin through all four seasons. Keep reading to find out more about whether you should be looking for moisturisers for dry skin or dehydrated skin.
According to Dr Garshick, dry skin and dehydrated skin are not entirely unrelated, as they have similar effects on the appearance of the skin. Dehydrated skin lacks water and dry skin lacks oil. She adds, “Dry skin is typically considered a skin type, whereas dehydrated skin can be considered a conditional state of the skin.”
With that in mind, it’s not uncommon for some people, particularly those with eczema or other dry skin concerns, to have relatively drier skin that lacks oil. On the other hand, dehydrated skin is often a result of lifestyle factors such as being in moisture-reducing conditions, the wrong skincare products or even sweating too much.
In most cases, flakiness or scaliness are the results of dry skin. These go hand-in-hand with redness and sensitivity, or even irritation. According to Dr Garshick, other signs of dry skin on the face or the body include tightness, itchiness and a feeling of rawness which may be accompanied by a burning sensation. Dryness also results from having a damaged skin barrier, which can be caused by several factors. Exfoliating too much, using the wrong dry-skin cream for you, being exposed to UV rays or poor weather conditions and pollution can all be contributing factors.
According to Dr Garshick, “Dehydrated skin may appear dull and result in a more noticeable appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles under the eyes due to the lack of moisture in the skin.” Considering that the body lacks dehydration, the skin can’t be expected to be as plump or lively in this instance.
One way of confirming whether your skin is dehydrated, says Dr Garshick, is to “try pinching a small portion of your cheek; if the skin doesn’t bounce back quickly or wrinkles easily, it may be dehydrated.” Dehydrated skin can also be characterised by tightness.
Dr Garshick says that in most cases, there’s a similarity in the treatment of these skin concerns. The key is to boost hydration in both cases. This, in turn, strengthens the lipid barrier, ultimately decreasing the likelihood of water loss.
Those with signs of dry skin, namely dry, scaly and flaking skin, should aim to incorporate a combination of humectants, emollients and occlusives into their skincare routine. This will be beneficial for restoring hydration. Highly recommended is the Rose Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask to give your skin the moisture it needs while you sleep. Another great face mask is the Floral Recovery Calming Mask, an Allure 2022 Best of Beauty winner, which actively works to soothe, smooth and protect dry skin.
Dr Garshick adds that you can have oily skin that’s dehydrated. The solution to this is using a lightweight formula that will provide the necessary hydration without clogging your pores. Top of mind is the Kombucha Antioxidant Facial Treatment Essence, the Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Emulsion and the Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum.
Find your perfect skincare solution by giving your skin the nourishment it needs, comprising our range of serums, masks and the best moisturiser for dry skin and dehydrated skin. Explore the fresh range of skin and bodycare products for healthier-looking skin and the ideal face moisturiser for you!
Written by Tori Douglas for Fresh. Tori is a NYC-based digital and brand strategist. Tori has worked for various publications and brands such as Kiehl's, The Body Shop, Deux Hommes Magazine, and Elite Daily with her expertise lying in the fashion & beauty space.