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Dehydrated skin is a common yet often misunderstood skin concern. It affects all skin types, even those with oily skin, and can leave your complexion looking dull, uneven, and uncomfortable. But don't worry—dehydrated skin is treatable with the right skincare routine and lifestyle adjustments. In this guide, we'll explore what dehydrated skin looks like, the best practices to treat it, and the products you should incorporate into your daily regimen.
Though the two are often confused, dehydrated skin and dry skin are different. While dry skin results from a lack of oil, dehydrated skin is caused by a lack of water. This can happen to anyone, regardless of whether their skin is oily, dry, or both.
Dehydrated skin often appears dull and lifeless. The texture may feel rough or uneven, and you might notice more prominent fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth.
It usually stems from a combination of factors, including insufficient water intake, environmental stressors like harsh weather and pollution, and skin care products that strip the skin's natural moisture barrier. Over-exfoliation, excessive cleansing, and even stress can also contribute to this condition.
To help you identify dehydrated skin, here are five key characteristics to look out for:
If you're looking for a quick fix, particularly overnight, consider applying a hydrating mask packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalane. These humectants draw water into the skin, providing an instant hydration boost. Sleeping masks are a fantastic option because they work while you sleep, allowing your skin to absorb moisture over several hours.
For long-term improvement, focus on restoring your skin's moisture barrier. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that doesn't strip your skin of its natural oils. Follow up with a hydrating serum containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, as well as antioxidants like vitamins a, c, and e. These serums soak deep into the skin, providing lasting hydration.
Moisturisers are essential, but not all are created equal. Look for those that combine humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants draw water into the skin, emollients smooth and soften, and occlusives create a barrier to lock in moisture.
Finally, remember to apply sunscreen daily. Dehydrated skin is more prone to sun damage, and a good SPF tailored to dehydrated skin will protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can exacerbate dehydration.
Daily practices and lifestyle changes are key to combating dehydrated skin. Supplements are an extremely important and effective way of hydrating the skin internally. Look out for skin-specific supplements such as Omegas 3+6 and Vitamin A supplements. There are now even supplements available with hyaluronic acid.
Some key hydration tips are to increase your water intake, aim for at least eight glasses a day, and consider switching to a diet that includes hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges. Reduce caffeine and alcohol consumption, as these can dehydrate the skin. Browse our blogs for the best skincare advice.
Also, be mindful of environmental stressors. In the colder months, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Check out our top tips for Winter Skincare. In the summer, protect your skin from the sun with a broad-spectrum SPF. Regularly exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, but don't overdo it—once or twice a week is sufficient for most skin types.
Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser. A product with a creamy or oil-based formula can help maintain your skin's moisture levels. YonKa offers a range of milk-based cleansers that effectively remove makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. These cleansers are perfect for dehydrated skin as they maintain hydration while cleansing, leaving your skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Choose a moisturiser that combines humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and squalane. These will help attract moisture, repair the skin barrier, and lock in hydration. Elemis offers a range of moisturisers packed with powerful marine extracts that help to hydrate and firm the skin.
A hydrating mask is your go-to for an intensive moisture boost. Masks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and chamomile can soothe and hydrate the skin, leaving it plump and refreshed. Check out our range of Medik8 masks that utilise a three-step moisturisation strategy, combining humectants, emollients, and occlusives to ensure comprehensive skin hydration.
A lightweight, hydrating SPF protects your skin from UV damage without clogging pores or exacerbating dehydration. Look for formulas with added hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to moisturise your skin throughout the day. Our range of Avene products offer lightweight, hydrating SPF solutions that protect the skin from UV rays while also providing essential moisture.
For more products, check out our Top 5 Image Skincare Products to find cleansers, serums, moisturisers, and masks tailored to hydrate and nourish your skin. Visit our Dry Skin Skincare Solutions page to discover the best skincare ingredients for your routine.
Understanding the difference between dry and dehydrated skin is crucial. Dry skin results from a lack of oil, whereas dehydrated skin results from a lack of water. Even oily skin can be dehydrated, leading to a shiny yet tight and uncomfortable complexion. Check out our Back to Basics - Dry Skin blog for expert advice on the best skincare routines.
For oily, dehydrated skin, you need an ingredient that will help absorb the excess sebum produced, but you will also need the hyaluronic acid components to keep it hydrated. Using a Salicylic Acid product such as a cleanser 3-4 times a week at night will help mop up excess oil and lightly exfoliate without stripping the barrier.
Remember to keep the skin lovely and damp before applying hyaluronic acid products to aid penetration and allow it to absorb and retain moisture.
Look for specific signs like dullness, rough texture, and fine lines. Another way to test for dehydration is by pinching your skin. If it doesn't bounce back immediately, it's likely dehydrated.
Dehydrated skin can be a frustrating condition, but with the right care and products, you can learn how to treat oily, dehydrated skin and restore your natural glow and comfort. Find out Everything You Need For Your Skin Type, stay hydrated, protect your skin from environmental stressors and you'll be well on your way to healthy, hydrated skin. Visit Millies for all your skincare needs and discover the best products to help you combat dehydrated skin today.
