Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin

Many people mistake dry skin for dehydrated skin, or they think they’re one and the same. But, dry skin and dehydrated skin are two very different things. 

Dehydrated skin looks dry, scaly and, even after its been cleansed, still feels tight, similar to dry skin, hence the confusion.

However, there’s a simple way to remember the differences between the two: dry skin lacks oil, and dehydrated skin lacks water. 

Also, know that “dry skin” is a skin type – the dryness doesn’t change or fluctuate over time – and “dehydrated skin” is a skin condition, one that can change in relation to external factors, such as outdoor activities (swimming), or taking hot showers, etc.

It’s also important to understand that dehydrated skin can occur in all skin types, not just dry skin. Oily skin and combination skin can also suffer from dehydration. But, because dry skin produces little to no oil, it can’t retain the water being produced in the skin, and as a result it’s more prone to being dehydrated.

Oily skin, on the other hand, becomes dehydrated due to the use of harsh products.

Other factors that lead to dehydrated skin include a lack of water, and weather conditions: the sun, wind, and/or changes in climate, for example.

Nutrition also plays a role in the look and feel of your skin. Eating poorly and regularly consuming lots of caffeinated (coffee, tea), sugary (soda), and/or alcoholic drinks can contribute to the dehydration of your skin. 

Dehydration is one of the most common skin conditions around. But, the good news is that, by using the right products, by choosing healthier meals, and by drinking the recommended daily amount of water, dehydration is treatable for most skin types. Increasing your daily intake of water is, by far, the easiest remedy for dehydration: it’s cheap, affordable and, most of the time, it’s free! And, let's not ever forget to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!!!