Although both have similar characteristics and some common treatments—a routine rich in emollients, moisturizers, and lipids is essential—the underlying reasons differ. It's important to diagnose what it's about to find a specific routine.
DRY SKIN
Dry skin is a skin type that feels rough and may appear flaky. Dry skin has deep oil and lipid deficiencies and becomes especially dry in winter. This is because the cold hinders blood circulation in the outer layers of the affected skin to the skin's tissues and cells, slowing the production of sebum, an important part of the lipid shield that protects the skin.
CHARACTERISTICS OF DRY SKIN
- Caused by lack of oil in the skin
- Feeling of tightness
- It may be scaly
- It looks dull
- It is not smooth
- Does not absorb products easily
- Gets irritated easily
- You are more likely to experience reactions to products
DEHYDRATED SKIN
Dehydrated skin is a condition that anyone can experience. It is caused by a lack of water in the skin, usually due to external environmental factors or lifestyle factors, such as cold or hot air, inflammation, pollution, and harsh skincare products that weaken the barrier, leading to transepidermal water loss. Dehydrated skin is dull, tight, and sensitive, and shows signs of premature aging.
CHARACTERISTICS OF DEHYDRATED SKIN
- Caused by lack of water in the skin
- Pores can be large or small.
- The skin feels tight, although at times it can appear confusingly oily and breakouts
- Absorbs moisturizing formulas very quickly
- Makeup becomes uneven throughout the day as the skin absorbs water from the foundation.
- It looks dull
The skin is made up of 70% water; around 20-30% of this is found in the epidermis (the top layer of the skin). Under normal circumstances, the hydrolipidic film acts as a regulator and barrier, retaining moisture and protecting against germs. If, for any reason, this is compromised, the moisture in the epidermis evaporates too quickly, and the normal, healthy state of the skin is compromised.
HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOUR SKIN IS DRY OR DEHYDRATED?
Pinch a small amount of skin on your cheek, abdomen, chest, or the back of your hand and hold it there for a few seconds. If your skin takes a few moments to spring back, rather than holding its shape, you're most likely dehydrated. Dry skin, on the other hand, is characterized by a lack of oil, and you'll usually feel some discomfort; this is a major sign of dryness.
IMPROVE YOUR SKIN'S HYDRATION THROUGH YOUR DIET
Internal hydration is essential. Drinking water and eating water-rich fruits and vegetables are two essential elements of a healthy lifestyle. Other foods that will help prevent internal skin inflammation—and consequently help strengthen the skin's barrier function—include fish such as salmon, berries, olive oil, green leafy vegetables, and nuts.
THINGS YOU SHOULD DO AND THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT DO:
- For dry skin, use balms and oils like May Lindstrom The Blue Cocoon or Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil; For dehydrated skin, use serums like Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum either Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum .
- Do not use products that are too aggressive or astringent.
- Forget foaming cleansers. Check out Susanne Kaufmann Purifying Cleansing Gel. either Vintner's Daughter Active Renewal Cleanser .
- Whether your skin is dry or dehydrated, adding a little hyaluronic acid to your routine won't hurt.