If your skin feels tight, flaky, or dull, your first instinct may be to use the thickest moisturizer you can find. However, dry skin and dehydrated skin are not the same thing, and knowing the difference is important when putting together a skincare routine.
If you’ve been trying endless moisturizers without seeing the desired results, this guide will help you understand the difference between dry and dehydrated skin, why it matters, and tips on finding the right moisturizer for your unique skin concerns.
What Is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is a skin type caused by a lack of natural oils, (also called sebum) produced by the sebaceous glands. If you have dry skin, it means there’s a lack of lipids to lock in moisture and protect the skin’s barrier.
Common Signs Of Dry Skin
- Flaky or rough texture
- Small pores
- Dull or ashy appearance
- Skin tightness, especially after cleansing
- Visible fine lines
How To Care For Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, products that restore the skin’s natural barrier are the best. Here are tips on how to care for dry skin.
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Use moisturizers that hydrate and deliver broad-spectrum free radical protection.
- The Restore + Repair Barrier Cream deeply hydrates, and is infused with clinically effective peptides.This cream reinforces the skin’s barrier and locks in moisture for a visibly calmer, healthier-looking glow.
- The Prep + Illuminate Gel Moisturizer locks in hydration, offers antioxidant-rich protection, smoothes and fortifies your complexion for a luminous, plump, and radiant finish.
- Avoid harsh cleansers that strip your skin of its natural oils.
- Use a humidifier at your home to add moisture to the air, especially during colder months.
What Is Dehydrated Skin?
Dehydrated skin isn't a skin type, but a temporary condition caused by a lack of water in the skin. Unlike dry skin, (which lacks oil) dehydrated skin lacks hydration and can happen to anyone, even someone with oily or combination skin.
Common Signs Of Dehydrated Skin
- Your skin may feel tight, especially after cleansing even if it looks shiny
- Dull or tired appearance
- Dehydration exaggerates fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth
- Increased oiliness or breakouts
- Sensitivity or irritation
How To Care For Dehydrated Skin
To combat dehydrated skin, it’s important to hydrate and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to restore hydration from within.
- Avoid over-exfoliating or using harsh treatments like alcohol-based toners that may further strip the skin.
- Use water-based, hydrating products. Shop our recommended products:
Common Myths About Dry & Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin means you’re not drinking enough water
While staying hydrated is important, dehydrated skin can also result from external factors like harsh weather or overuse of drying skincare products.
Oily skin can’t be dehydrated
Oily skin can be dehydrated, especially if you’re using too many oil-controlling or mattifying products that strip your skin of water.
Exfoliating more will fix flaky skin
Flakiness from dehydration or dryness often means your skin needs more moisture, not more scrubbing. Too much exfoliation can strip your barrier and make both issues worse.
You only need to moisturize in winter
Sun, wind, indoor AC, and even stress can all trigger dehydration—even in the summer. Keeping your skin balanced is important all-year round.
