Are you confused between dry skin and dehydrated skin? Maybe you think the two go hand in hand. Not necessarily! So, if a moisturizer isn't doing enough for your skin, maybe it's time to give this topic a closer look.
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DRY SKIN VS DEHYDRATED SKIN
What is dry skin?
Dry skin, which is a skin type, doesn't produce as much oil as it should and does not hold in moisture very well either. As a result, your skin is left feeling tight and uncomfortable. Dry skin is commonly genetic and usually remains constant when left untreated.
So how do you know if your skin is dry?
Dry skin tends to feel tight, itchy, sensitive, and look flaky. Commonly seen is the formation of creases on the skin’s surface as well. Those who suffer from dry skin are prone to dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, dullness and more.
If this sounds like your skin, you might be suffering from dry skin. But, find the proper skincare regimen for your skin's needs and you will be SURE to help prevent signs of aging!
Pro-tips:
- Use warm water in shower rather than hot
- Moisturize IMMEDIATELY after drying skin
- Blot your skin gently dry
- Use a gentle moisturizer
- Avoid using too much cleanser
- Choose non-irritating laundry detergent
- Stay away from sitting in front of fire place or any heat source
- Always protect skin before shaving and shave at end of shower
- Wear SPF daily
What is dehydrated skin?
Dehydrated skin is very similar to dry skin in terms of texture and appearance but has a few key differences. To start, dehydrated skin is a skin condition, meaning that people with combination or oily skin can still have dehydrated skin. The outer layers of the skin are deprived from hydration which causes your skin to swell up leading to visible wrinkles, fine lines, dark under eyes and more.
What are the signs of dehydrated skin?
Dehydrated skin is tight, looks shiny and appears to have no creases. Those with dehydrated skin are more prone to dullness, patchy form, advanced aging.
If this sounds like your skin, you could be suffering from dehydrated skin.
Pro-tips:
- To tell if your skin is dehydrated, try the pinch test!
- Pinch a small amount of skin (Cheek, back of hand, chest, abdomen)
- If your skin quickly goes back to original state then your skins not dehydrated
- If you take a while to go back to original state then your skin is dehydrated.
- Drink plenty of water daily
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
- Use face masks weekly
- Use a gentle cleanser
- Wear SPF daily
To summarize...
Dry skin is a skin type while dehydrated skin is a skin condition. Dry skin occurs because your skin lacks natural oil or sebum while dehydrated skin lacks water.
Ingredients to look for: If you have dry skin, you’ll want to a moisturizer with Jojoba, Squalene, or Almond Oil. If you have dehydrated skin, look for Aloe, AHA, or Lactic Acid in the ingredients.
Remember, dry skin cannot be reversed and dehydrated skin can be prevented with a few simple lifestyle changes. So, it is important for you to understand your skin and find a skincare routine that takes care of your concerns. By doing so, you will be able to prevent visible signs of aging from occurring!