Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin – What are the differences?

Often dry and dehydrated skin will be confused as the same thing, when they are actually separate skin concerns. Dry skin is cause by a lack of oil and is a skin type, whereas dehydrated skin needs hydrated and treating it can be easily remedied. The simplest way to avoid getting dehydrated skin is to make sure you are drinking plenty of water each day, even if you don’t feel thirsty, keep drinking water throughout the day to ensure your skin is getting the H2O it needs. Alongside a good skincare routine, you'll be glowing!

What is Dry Skin? 

Our skin naturally produces an oil called sebum. The oil helps to keep the skin moisturised and smooth. If you have a dry skin type, your skin produces less of this oil and is not able to hold onto moisture very well. Symptoms of dry skin include: 

• Flakey skin 
• Redness 
• Irritation 
• Small fine wrinkles are more pronounced 
• Skin feels tight 

Best Skincare for Dry Skin 

Oil based products are a fantastic choice for those with dry skin. Facial oils will penetrate deep into the skin giving it a powerful hydration boost. Oils containing natural oils like Jojoba Oil are great as this lightweight oil is similar to our natural sebum and the skin therefore recognises it, making it suitable for all skin types. Jojoba oil, one of the key ingredients in our Nourishing Facial Oil, also does not clog pores, and is an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Facial Oils are particularly beneficial when using them before bedtime, as the oil works well as your skin repairs and renews itself while you sleep. 

What is Dehydrated Skin? 

Dehydrated skin is a temporary skin condition that can affect all skin types. Unlike dry skin, which is caused by a lack of oil, dehydrated skin is caused by a lack of water. Symptoms of dehydrated skin include: 

• Redness 
• Skin feels tight – even after moisturising 
• Shiny complexion 
• Congestion 

Best Skincare for Dehydrated Skin 

Using a serum is the one of the best ways to deliver an intense moisture boost to your skin. Serums are absorbed deep into the skin and will give your dehydrated skin the added hydration it needs. 

Exfoliating once a week will also help to keep your skin in tip top condition. It will help to remove dead skin cells, which left to build up can clog pores and prevent moisture from getting deep into your skin. Follow with a good natural moisturiser like our award-winning Anti-oxidant Marine Cream and your skin will be healthy and nourished in no time!

Lifestyle Approaches to Help Treat Dehydrated Skin 

Using the correct skincare products will go a long way to helping treat dehydrated skin, but as external factors can play a role, a holistic approach to tackling it can also be extremely beneficial. Smoking, a diet high in salt, drinking too much alcohol and not drinking enough water can all cause dehydrated skin. Weather can also be a trigger, but as we have no control over that, we recommend making sure your skin is moisturised before stepping outside! And, as we always say, drink your water! Your body and skin will thank you for it.