Dry vs Dehydrated Skin: How to Tell the Difference (and What to Do)
Tight, dull, flaky skin is often called “dry”. But there are two different problems that look alike: dry skin, which lacks oil, and dehydrated skin, which lacks water. Knowing which one you have helps you pick the right products.
What is dry skin?
Dry skin is a skin type. Your skin naturally produces less oil (sebum), so it struggles to hold on to moisture. It often feels rough, can look flaky, and rarely gets shiny. Dry skin tends to be dry all over, all year round, and may get worse with age.
What is dehydrated skin?
Dehydrated skin is a temporary skin condition. It means the skin is short of water, and any skin type can get it, including oily skin. Common causes are cold weather, central heating, harsh cleansers, too much exfoliation, not drinking enough water and long flights.
Signs of each
| Dry skin | Dehydrated skin |
|---|---|
| Rough or flaky texture | Dull, tired-looking complexion |
| Rarely shiny, small pores | Can be oily and tight at the same time |
| Feels dry all year | Comes and goes with weather and habits |
| Needs more oil | Needs more water |
| Fine lines visible most of the time | Fine lines that appear and disappear |
Try the pinch test
Gently pinch the skin on your cheek and let go. If it takes a moment to bounce back, or you see fine crinkly lines, your skin is probably dehydrated. It’s a rough guide, not a diagnosis, but it’s a helpful starting point.
How to treat dehydrated skin
Dehydrated skin needs water-binding ingredients, called humectants, and a lighter touch:
- Hydrating toner: a watery first layer, like our Hydrating Toner, preps skin for the next steps.
- Hyaluronic acid: the Double Hydration Boost Gel + HA or Hydrating Serum help skin hold on to water.
- A moisturiser to lock it in: even oily skin needs one. Try the Moisturising Day Cream.
- Gentle cleansing: avoid stripping, squeaky-clean cleansers.
How to treat dry skin
Dry skin needs hydration too, but above all it needs oils and richer textures that rebuild the skin barrier:
- A creamy cleanser: such as the Gentle Cleansing Milk.
- A rich cream: the Nourishing Rich Cream cushions and protects.
- Facial oil: a few drops of Nourishing Facial Oil at night seal everything in.
Can you have both?
Yes, and it’s common in winter. If your skin is both dry and dehydrated, layer a hydrating serum under a rich cream, and add facial oil at night.
Frequently asked questions
Does drinking water fix dehydrated skin?
Drinking enough water helps your overall health, but skin also needs topical hydration and a moisturiser to stop water escaping.
Can oily skin be dehydrated?
Yes. Oily skin can still lack water. It may feel tight and look shiny at the same time. A lightweight hydrating serum and an oil-free moisturiser usually help.
Is dehydrated skin permanent?
No. Dehydration is a temporary condition, and it usually improves within a couple of weeks once your routine and habits change.
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