The difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin – and ways to treat both!

Like many of you, I initially assumed ‘dry’ and ‘dehydrated’ seemed like two words used to describe the same thing.  But when it comes to skincare, ‘dry’ and ‘dehydrated’ are two very different concerns with different underlying causes. Understanding the difference and how to treat each respective concern is essential to getting your skin back on track and healthier than ever.

So, what’s the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?

Dry skin is a skin type that is caused by fewer oil-producing glands on the face and body resulting in a lack of natural oils. Dehydrated skin is a condition which anyone can develop or experience which is caused by a lack of water in the top layer of your skin, also known as ‘stratum corneum’.

What are the symptoms of dry skin?

• Feels rough
• Appears dry
• Skin can be flaky

As dry skin is a ‘skin type’ and not a condition resulting from environmental factors, it’s important you seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment. A quick appointment with your GP or dermatologist should help you identify your ‘skin type’ and help you to avoid using the wrong products.

How do you treat dry skin?

Because dry skin is a skin type not a condition, treating it can be tricky. Some things you can try at home to reduce the severity of your dry skin are:

• Avoid hot showers and baths – hot water removes oils from your skin
• Avoid soaps that dry out your skin – look for soap with added oils and fats
• Work with your GP or a dermatologist to understand your skin type and its specific needs
  
  

• Feels tight
• Feels rough
• Is unusually sensitive
• Looks dull
• Fine lines become more prominent
• Accelerated signs of ageing, including deep wrinkles

Dehydrated skin can be brought on by much more complex issues than simply not drinking enough water. Excessive exposure to the sun, hot water and use of air-conditioning and heaters, as well as incorrect use of skincare products, can dehydrate your skin. Not correcting how you care for your skin if it is dehydrated can lead to permanent damage – no thank you!

How do you treat dehydrated skin?

• Use daily sun protection
• Avoid smoking
• Avoid drinking alcohol
• East a balanced diet
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid skincare products that include parabens, sulphates and phthalates –
  these are synthetic ingredients that are drying agents
• Moisturise twice daily and add a hydrating serum into your skincare routine – like our Rejuvenating HY C Serum hyaluronic acid, a powerful moisture binding ingredient, and seabuckthorn oil, which heals and rejuvenates damaged skin and enhances elasticity
• Avoid washing your face with warm and hot water
• Apply moisturiser within minutes of getting out of the shower or after washing
  your face to trap the moisture in your skin
  
  

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and making sure your skincare routine is right for your skin type is essential to supporting healthy skin for life. Don’t forget general skin health tips, like eating a balanced diet, reducing alcohol intake, exercising frequently and drinking plenty of water - these are all ways to enhance your skin’s health and appearance too.

For a full range of 100% natural skincare to help improve your skins hydration and overall health, check out the Bohemian Skin range here.