How is dehydrated skin different from dry skin?

How is dehydrated skin different from dry skin?

Dry skin is a skin type that is lacking in natural oils and moisture. It is usually caused by a lack of oil production or due to environmental factors such as cold weather, frequent bathing, and use of harsh soaps. It is usually considered a skin type. In fact, it is often hereditary. Dry skin can feel tight and uncomfortable, and is prone to itching, flaking, and redness.  


Dehydrated skin is a skin type that has lost moisture due to environmental factors such as sun exposure, wind, and air conditioning.  Dehydrated skin is skin that needs water and can easily be remedied. The telltale signs of dehydrated skin are red patches, congestion, dark circles and wrinkles, and is prone to wrinkles and dullness. 

Dehydration is typically caused by seasonal changes, but it can also be brought on by using the wrong products or lifestyle changes, it can also be caused by an inadequate skincare routine, or by using products with harsh ingredients. 


How can I avoid dehydrated skin?

What you put in and on  your body matters. The simplest way to avoid dehydrated skin is to make sure you are drinking water even when you are not thirsty. You’ve heard it before but it bears repeating: Aim for eight glasses a day. It’s also important to note that some liquids, mainly caffeine and alcohol, will sabotage your skin’s water content. If you drink either, offset the consumption with even more water. When it comes to diet, water-rich fruits and vegetables (cucumber, celery) and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, nuts and egg yolks) are a valuable source of hydration for your skin.

Also, mind your environment. If you spend a lot of time indoors, use a humidifier to offset the dryness and aggravation caused by dry indoor heating and central air conditioning. And do you best to avoid long, steamy baths: Prolonged exposure to hot water can cause your skin to dry out.

My skin is already dehydrated. What can I do?

The best way to counter dehydrated skin is with a solid skincare routine. (And drink more water! Did we mention?) 

Special body cream care routines are the most important part of any moisture and rehydration strategy.You have to nourish the skin while strengthening the skin barrier. Use body creams formulas with humectant-attracting molecules (hyaluronic acids)  to increase hydration levels of the skin. Search formulas that help rehydrate skin at a cellular level, while strengthening the skin barrier to protect against both dryness and dehydration.

Exfoliating skin once a week will ensure that you are removing the dead skin cells that can build up, clog pores, and prevent moisture from penetrating deep into your skin. 

In summary, dry skin is caused by a lack of oil production and dehydrated skin is caused by a lack of moisture. Dry skin is prone to itching, flaking and redness, while dehydrated skin is prone to wrinkles and dullness.