
Dry Skin Vs Dehydrated Skin: What's the Difference?
Many are confused between dry skin vs dehydrated skin. These are two different skin conditions, although they may look the same. Both can make your skin feel uncomfortable and dull, but there are different causes behind them. Also, there are different treatments to fix them. So here you will learn about the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin. And what necessary steps to take to deal with them?
What Is Dry Skin?
Our skin produces a natural oily substance called sebum. This waxy substance guards your skin from environmental stress and pollution. But when produced in excess, it will leave a sticky, oily look on the face. It is an important barrier against aging, acne, and eczema. When your skin produces less oil compared to its natural requirement, your skin will turn dry. It is a skin type condition where your skin fails to lock in moisture.
What Are The Symptoms Of Dry Skin?
-
Flaky patches and rough dry skin.
-
Feeling of tightness in the face.
-
Visible cracks on the skin or fine wrinkles.
-
Cracking or redness can also appear in some cases.
-
Sometimes dry skin can cause itchiness or irritation. Common during cold weather.
Those who have dry skin issues, such symptoms will trouble you throughout the year. But if these issues occur only during winter, then you don’t have dry skin.
How To Treat Dry Skin?
By replenishing natural oils and using ingredients that can strengthen the skin barrier, dry skin. Here is what you can do.
-
Always use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. This will not strip away all the oil from the skin.
-
Use a gentle moisturizer multiple in a day. Try using a rich moisturizing cream for dry skin.
-
Use rose water toner before applying moisturizer. This will soothe and prep the skin.
-
Do not sit in hot showers for long. It can strip oils from the skin.
Skin Care Products for Dry Skin
Here are some skin care products you can use to fight dry skin issues. They are perfect for daily usage and restore skin's moisture when used regularly.
1. Intense Moisture Cream:
-
Intense Moisture Cream contains Shea Butter, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin E. All these ingredients help your skin get deeply moisturized and also add UV protection. The moisturizer locks in moisture and makes the skin look plump.
2. Hydra Boost Face Pack
-
Use Hydra Boost Face Pack once a week to treat dull skin. It contains Kaolin Clay, Cucumber, Aloe Vera, and Hyaluronic Acid. Along with gentle detox, the face pack also deeply hydrates the skin. It offers a radiant glow and refreshes the skin.
3. Skin Radiance Cream
-
Skin Radianc Cream is best for fighting dry skin and pigmentation. It will help you to get an even tone all over the face. It contains Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, and Licorice Extract. It is a lightweight and nourishing cream. Works well under sunscreen or makeup.
4. Hydra Boost Face Scrub
-
A gentle exfoliation for dry and sensitive skin. Hydra Boost Face scrub contains natural cellulose beads, aloe vera, cucumber, and tea tree oil. It does not strip natural oils. Use one to two times a week.
What Is Dehydrated Skin?
Dehydrated skin is different than dry skin. It is a skin condition that occurs when your skin loses water quickly. Dry skin lacks oil. It can affect any skin type. Here are some symptoms of dry skin.
What Are The Symptoms Of Dehydrated Skin?
-
Tired-looking complexion.
-
Visible fine lines. Especially under the eyes.
-
Tightness or discomfort after washing.
-
Increases redness and sensitive skin.
-
Dark circles or a shadowy appearance around the eyes.
-
Flaky patches or rough texture.
Dehydrated Skin is a temporary issue that can be due to environmental changes. It can affect you due to weather changes, diet, or using skin care products with heavy chemicals.
How To Treat Dehydrated Skin?
You have to focus on increasing water content to treat dehydration. This can be done externally and internally. That means adding more water to your diet, along with using gentle skin care products that can fight dehydration.
-
Drink plenty of water during the day. Add water-rich fruits and vegetables to boost hydration.
-
Use Hyaluronic Acid for skin. A hydrating serum made from this acid will draw more water into the skin.
-
Always apply a gentle moisturizer to lock in hydration.
-
Do not over-exfoliate. This can increase dehydration. Also, avoid using harsh alcohol-based toners.
Skin Care Products for Dehydrated Skin
Here are some excellent skin care products to deal with dehydrated skin. These products help in restoring moisture and strengthening the skin barrier.
1. Intense Moisture Cream
-
Intense Moisture Cream can deeply hydrate and nourish your skin. Contains Shea Butter, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin E. The cream attracts moisture in the skin and seals the hydration. Vitamin E works on calming irritated or tight skin. Great for day and night use.
2. Hydra Boost Face Pack
-
Use Hydra Boost Face Pack once a week to treat dull skin. It contains Kaolin Clay, Cucumber, Aloe Vera, and Hyaluronic Acid. The face pack can cool down the face and make your skin look plump. It is a deal to deal with tight skin. It will leave a soft and refreshed feeling once used.
3. Skin Radiance Face Wash
-
Skin Radiance Face Wash can cleanse your face without drying it further. It is best for those who are dealing with tightness in the face. It has Vitamin C, Liquorice Extract, and Niacinamide. Its gentle and non-foaming texture is clam on face skin. It can remove dirt and oil without removing excess water from the skin.
When you are using a moisturizing cream, always apply a hydrated toner. Do not sit or bathe in hot water for too long, and avoid alcohol-based products.
Dry Vs Dehydrated Skin: Key Differences
|
Factor |
Dry Skin |
Dehydrated Skin |
|
Cause |
Aging, Weather, and sometimes Genetic |
Weather, Poor Diet, Harsh Skin Care Products, Dehydration. |
|
Type |
Usually affects skin that lacks oil. |
Affects skins that lack water. |
|
Symptoms |
Falky, tight, itchy skin. Feel rough while touching. |
Dull, oily, fine lines, tight-looking skin. |
|
Treatment |
Use replenishing oil and products that can repair the skin barrier. |
Drink more water and focus on products that can increase the skin's water retention. |
|
Action |
Improvements are visible within 4 to 6 weeks of a proper skin care routine. |
Improvements will be visible within 3 to 7 days of a proper skin care routine. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does drinking water hydrate skin?
Consuming enough water will help in overall hydration, which is also important. But topical products like hyaluronic acid for skin are also necessary to repair skin from the outside.
Q. How to know if my skin is dehydrated?
If you see tightness on your skin, dullness, and there are fine lines when you smile, then most likely your skin is dehydrated.
Q. Does dehydrated skin need a moisturizer?
Yes, a gentle, lightweight moisturizer is good enough to seal hydration.
Q. What are the best ingredients for dry skin?
For dry skin, shea butter, natural oils, ceramides, etc, work best. A moisturizer will also boost healing.
Q. What are the best ingredients for dehydrated skin?
For dehydrated skin, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide acid for skin are highly effective.

Difference Between Skin Purging vs. Breakouts
What are the Benefits of Body Scrub?