Dry vs dehydrated skin – What’s the difference?

Maintaining healthy skin can be a tricky balancing act, and with so many different skincare products and treatments available, it can be difficult to determine what our skin needs.

 Two commonly confused terms are “dry skin” and “dehydrated skin.” While they may seem similar, they refer to different skin conditions with distinct causes and treatments. We shall discuss this in detail today.

Dry vs dehydrated skin

Dry Skin

When the skin is unable to retain moisture, it becomes dry. While genetics play a role, dry skin can also result from external factors, such as cold weather, low humidity, harsh soaps, and hot showers. When the skin is dry, it appears rough, flaky, and tight. It can also be itchy and prone to cracking and bleeding.

5 Characteristics of Dry Skin

•   Rough, scaly or flaky skin
•   Tightness and discomfort after washing or bathing
•   Dull or ashy skin
•   Itching and irritation
•   Cracked or chapped skin, especially on the hands and feet

How to Care for Dry Skin

•   Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and avoid using hot water while washing.
•   Apply a rich moisturiser to the skin immediately after showering or bathing to lock in moisture.
•   Avoid harsh soaps, which can strip natural oils from the skin.
•   Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.

Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated skin is a temporary condition that occurs when the skin lacks water. This condition can affect any skin type, including oily and combination, and is often caused by external factors such as sun exposure, alcohol, caffeine, and dry air. Dehydrated skin can make fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable, and the skin may appear dull and lacklustre.

5 Characteristics of Dehydrated Skin:

•   Tightness and discomfort, especially after cleansing or washing
•   Dull, lacklustre skin
•   Increased visibility of fine lines and wrinkles
•   Dark circles under the eyes
•   Flakiness and rough texture

How to Care for Dehydrated Skin

•   Drink water throughout the day to hydrate your skin from the inside out.
•   Use a hydrating serum or moisturiser with hyaluronic acid to draw moisture to the skin.
•   Avoid using harsh products that can strip the skin of its natural oils.
•   Use a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser to avoid further dehydration.
•   Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.

Conclusion

While dry and dehydrated skin may seem similar, they are different skin conditions with distinct causes and treatments. By learning more about your skin and paying attention to the symptoms, you can keep both dry and dehydrated skin at bay.

 For professional consultation or to pamper your skin, please book an appointment at Bubbles Beauty. Our skin experts will assess your skin and provide the right treatment.

Meta description: Dry skin and dehydrated skin are not the same thing! Click here to learn about the differences and tips on how to avoid each condition.