Dry and dehydrated skin might look the same on the surface. However it is important to make a distinction between the two. Dry skin is a skin type and describes skin that lacks oil. Dehydrated skin is a skin condition that describes skin that lacks water. Some of us experience dry skin, but most of us experienced dehydrated skin at some point. Yes, even oily and combination skin types.
The signs and causes of dehydrated skin
A few common signs to look for: fine lines and wrinkles are more prominent, skin will feel tight and uncomfortable and look dull. Pinch the skin on your cheek, if the lines become more prominent, you are dehydrated.
There are many causes of dehydrated skin. It might be caused by weather (both extreme cold and heat), heating and air conditioning, pollutants, travel, medication, diet and using unsuitable skincare products (for example using a cleanser that is too harsh for your skin).
How can you treat dehydrated skin? Drink more water (that is always a good thing for your health in general). But that alone will probably not be enough. One ingredient that has grown in popularity is hyaluronic acid (or Sodium Hyaluronate) as it is a humectant. Humectants are ingredients that will hold on water and prevent further transepidermal water loss. Sodium Hyaluronate (a salt form of hyaluronic acid) can hold 1000 times its weight in water. Other ingredients to look for would include glycerin and urea. You can follow it up with occlusive ingredients to lock in the moisture. When buying products look for oils, Propylene glycol and even silicones.
The signs and causes of dry skin
Dry skin is a skin type. It is skin that lacks oil (your oil production is low). Usually the cause of dry skin is genetics. But as we grow older our skin tends to get drier (even if it was oily and combination previously). Some of the most common symptoms would include increased sensitivity, tightness, itchiness and in some cases even flaking. Dry skin can also be exacerbated by taking long hot showers or baths. The best way to treat dry skin is to add oils and oil-based products to your skincare routine.
Products to aid dry and dehydrated skin
Our EFA Intense Night Repair is a good option if you are looking for an oil based serum that will aid intensive lipid recovery. It contains cold-pressed Rosehip, Marula and Tomato oils and combines them with a stable vitamin c esther and Teprenone (also known as Renovage).
Synergy Age-Rewind Night Cream is most suitable for aging skin that veers toward dryness. The formula combines powerful anti-oxidants with peptides and natural oils to give you firm, nourished and plump skin.
Hydraplus Cream is ideal for sensitive and dry skin types that will boost natural hyaluronic acid levels and improve natural skin repair functions. It contains 5% Oat Beta Glucan together with vitamins C and B5. Tamanu, Borage, Evening Primrose and Jojoba oils will nourish the skin.
Is your skin dry or dehydrated? How have you adapted your skincare routine to tackle the issue? Is there any product you simply can’t be without?
