Dry and dehydrated skin are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct conditions with different causes and treatments. Understanding whether your skin is dry, dehydrated, or both is key to choosing the right skincare products and strategies to restore balance and radiance. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, explains the differences between dry and dehydrated skin, how to identify each condition, and the best ways to care for them.
What Is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is a skin type characterised by a lack of natural oils (sebum). It tends to feel rough, flaky, and tight, and may even appear dull. Dry skin is often genetic but can also be influenced by environmental factors like cold weather or harsh cleansers.
- Signs of Dry Skin:
- Flakiness or peeling
- Rough texture
- Tightness, especially after cleansing
- Redness or irritation
- Visible fine lines caused by dryness
- Causes of Dry Skin:
- Genetics
- Aging (reduced oil production over time)
- Harsh soaps or cleansers
- Cold or windy weather
Tip: Since dry skin lacks oil, focus on adding moisture with richer, emollient products.
What Is Dehydrated Skin?
Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a condition rather than a skin type. It occurs when the skin lacks water, not oil. This means even oily or combination skin types can experience dehydration. Dehydrated skin often feels tight and looks dull, with fine lines that appear more prominent.
- Signs of Dehydrated Skin:
- Tightness or discomfort
- Dullness or a lack of radiance
- Increased sensitivity
- Fine lines that disappear when hydrated
- Oiliness (as the skin compensates for water loss)
- Causes of Dehydrated Skin:
- Environmental factors like sun exposure or air conditioning
- Overuse of harsh products (e.g., strong exfoliants or astringents)
- Insufficient water intake
- Lack of hydrating skincare products
Tip: Dehydrated skin needs water-based hydration, often in the form of humectants like hyaluronic acid.
How to Identify Your Skin Condition
To determine whether your skin is dry, dehydrated, or both, try this simple test:
- Gently Pinch Your Cheek: If your skin wrinkles slightly and doesn’t bounce back, it may be dehydrated.
- Check for Flakiness: If your skin feels rough or has visible flakes, it’s likely dry.
- Look at Overall Texture: If your skin is oily in some areas but still feels tight or dull, you may have dehydrated, combination skin.
Tip: You can have dry and dehydrated skin simultaneously, which requires a combination of oil and water-based treatments.
How to Treat Dry Skin
1. Use a Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser
Dry skin is easily irritated by harsh cleansers that strip away natural oils. Choose a cream-based or oil-based cleanser to cleanse without compromising your skin barrier.
- Best Ingredients: Glycerin, ceramides, and hydrating oils (e.g., jojoba or avocado).
Tip: Avoid foaming cleansers, which can be too drying for this skin type.
2. Opt for Rich, Emollient Moisturisers
Dry skin needs heavy-duty hydration to replenish lost oils and lock in moisture. Look for creams or balms with occlusive ingredients that form a protective barrier.
- Best Ingredients: Shea butter, squalane, and fatty acids.
Tip: Apply moisturiser immediately after cleansing to seal in hydration.
3. Protect Against Environmental Factors
Dry skin is more vulnerable to environmental stressors, so take steps to protect it from cold weather and wind.
- What to Do: Wear a scarf during winter and use a humidifier indoors to prevent the air from drying out your skin.
Tip: Always use sunscreen to protect against UV damage, which can worsen dryness.
How to Treat Dehydrated Skin
1. Incorporate Hydrating Serums
Serums with humectants draw water into the skin, providing an instant boost of hydration. Use them before your moisturiser for maximum effect.
- Best Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol.
Tip: Apply your hydrating serum to damp skin for better absorption.
2. Drink More Water
Hydrating from the inside out is just as important as topical treatments. Ensure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
- How Much Water to Drink: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, and adjust based on your activity level and environment.
Tip: Incorporate water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges into your diet for an extra hydration boost.
3. Avoid Over-Exfoliation
Over-exfoliating can strip your skin’s natural barrier, making dehydration worse. Stick to gentle exfoliants and use them sparingly.
- Best Exfoliants for Dehydrated Skin: Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) or lactic acid.
Tip: Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times per week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity.
Products That Address Both Dry and Dehydrated Skin
For those with both dry and dehydrated skin, layering the right products can make all the difference. Here’s a simple routine:
- Hydrating Cleanser: Start with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping oils.
- Hydrating Serum: Apply a water-based serum with hyaluronic acid to replenish lost water.
- Moisturiser: Use a rich, emollient moisturiser to seal in hydration and restore lost oils.
- Sunscreen: Always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin from UV damage.
When to See a Professional
If you’ve tried at-home solutions but your skin remains persistently dry or dehydrated, consider consulting a dermatologist. Professional treatments like hydrating facials or prescription creams can help address severe dryness or dehydration effectively.
Understanding whether your skin is dry, dehydrated, or both is key to choosing the right skincare products and routines. Dry skin needs oils to restore its barrier, while dehydrated skin benefits from water-based hydration to replenish moisture. By tailoring your skincare routine to your skin’s specific needs, you can achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion. For personalised skincare advice, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. For more expert tips, visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog.