Dry and dehydrated skin are common issues that many people experience, but they are often misunderstood. Although the terms are frequently used interchangeably, dry skin and dehydrated skin are actually distinct conditions that require different approaches to treatment and care.
Dry skin type
Dry skin occurs when the skin’s sebaceous glands don't produce enough oil. As a result, the skin becomes rough, flaky and prone to irritation. Some factors that can make dry skin worse include the natural ageing process, environmental conditions (such as cold weather) and certain lifestyle habits (such as overuse of harsh skincare products). Having hot showers daily can also wash away the skin’s protective oils, leading to further dryness.
Dehydrated skin condition
Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, lacks water in the skin’s outer layer. Unlike dry skin, which lacks oil, dehydrated skin lacks moisture. That's why this skin condition can affect anyone, including those with oily or combination skin. Dehydrated skin is often temporary. Environmental stressors, poor water intake, an unbalanced diet, and certain skincare products can disrupt the skin barrier and contribute to dehydration. Dehydrated skin typically looks dull and can show premature signs of ageing, like wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
During our skin consultations, we often see clients confusing dry skin with dehydrated skin. To sum it up, dry skin lacks oil and is a skin type, often genetic. Dehydrated skin lacks water and is normally caused by a damaged skin barrier. Both dry and dehydrated skin need a suitable skincare routine to be in great health.
Managing dry or dehydrated skin effectively often requires a combination of professional skincare products and in-clinic treatments. For dry skin, focus on using rich, emollient skincare and oils that help restore the skin's natural oil barrier is important. Dehydrated skin benefits from products that boost water content, such as hyaluronic acid. It's also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier to maintain ambient moisture whenever needed.
For persistent or severe issues, professional help is always advisable. Healthy skin is achievable for everyone, and we’re here to help. Booking a skin consultation is the first step to understand the causes of your skin concerns so we can put together a personalised plan to address them.
Here are some of the treatments we might recommend for dry or dehydrated skin:
Often, a combination of treatments is the most effective approach. Book your skin consultation for an in-person assessment.
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