While dry skin and dehydrated skin may tend to feel the same, they are far from it!  So how can we recognise the differences between the two and what can we do about it? We’ll explain.

Dehydrated vs Dry skin

What’s the difference?

Dehydration is often referred to as a condition which is caused by a lack of water, rather than a skin type. Dehydrated skin is usually due to external factors such as seasonal changes, diet and lifestyle choices, depleting the skin’s water content. When you have dehydrated skin you’ll probably notice your skin feeling tight, flakey and your lines may look more prominent.

Dry skin on the other hand is a permanent skin type. This is caused by a lack of oil, and is usually indicated by skin that looks or feels rough, redness or itching, flaking, scaling or peeling. When left unsupported, dry skin can lead to more serious problems such as intense itching, eczema and other skin disorders.

Why it’s important

Our skin is a big deal- literally. It’s the biggest organ in our body. When your skin is dehydrated, it is more easily irritated, ages faster, prone to breakouts and can even lead to an uneven or discoloured tone. By keeping it hydrated, this allows your skin to strengthen and repair its barrier functions. Not only that but by doing so, you can minimise the signs of ageing which can lead to a smoother more even complexion.

How to treat dehydrated skin

So the question is, how do we restore and maintain hydrated skin? It’s easy - develop a solid skincare routine that incorporates products for dehydrated skin and re-evaluate factors in your lifestyle that may be causing your skin to dry out. 

Factors may include:

• External elements such as weather or change in season.
• An unhealthy diet.
• Lifestyle choices such as excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine (this can be extremely dehydrating). 

Do’s

Drink plenty of water

Hydrating the skin starts from the inside out. It is also recommended for you to drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday. This is important to make sure your body is getting enough water to keep your skin looking healthy and glowing. 

Supercharge with Serums

A well formulated serum will ensure your skin retains moisture, keeping it soft and supple. Hyaluronic Acid is extremely effective in replenishing dehydrated skin. When applied to dehydrated skin, it improves and maintains vital levels of hydration in the skin cells. Hyaluronic Acid has the capacity to attract and hold up to 1000x its weight in moisture!

Our Glow Serum is your go-to serum. Formulated with Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid to brighten and firm the skin, this antioxidant serum combines Kakadu Plum, Caviar Lime, Rainforest Lime and Desert Lime- to instantly plump, revive and brighten. 

Always use an SPF

Every. Single. Day. This includes cloudy, winter days! When your skin is exposed to UV rays without protection, the rays can damage and even kill skin cells. This can cause dryness and skin pigmentation. When the outermost layer of your skin (stratum corneum) is damaged by UV exposure it thickens and becomes dehydrated leading to rough, flaky skin.

Don’ts 

Don't wash your skin with hot water

The hotter the water, the more oil and moisture is removed from your skin. This goes for timing too. The longer you’re in the shower, the more this process is prolonged. When washing your face, use lukewarm water instead. 

Avoid harsh cleansers

 When your skin is dehydrated, this isn't a great time to be using rough exfoliators or cleansers! Instead opt for gentle products that will help your skin look and feel hydrated. Our Cleansing Gel is formulated to deeply cleanse whilst keeping your skin balanced and nourished. 

Avoid excessive Caffeine & Alcohol consumption

Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages have a natural diuretic effect which can cause fluid loss and dehydration. So what exactly does this mean for your skin? Dehydrated cells are not able to absorb nutrients easily, leading to increased skin inflammation and loss in collagen. This can cause the skin not only to become dehydrated but to look drier and feel less plump. 

One More Thing!

It’s also very possible for skin to be both dry and dehydrated. Thinking you may have dry skin? Try our Skin Quiz If that’s the case, it’s super important to know your skin type so that you can implement the right skincare products.

So there you have it. Follow these simple tips for dehydrated skin and you’ll have healthy, glowing skin in no time.

Need and extra boost of hydration but not sure how or what to incorporate it? Read our blog on “3 Easy Ways to Add a Face Oil To Your Skincare Routine”