Navigating skincare for dry skin and dehydrated skin can be tricky, as both conditions often feel similar but require different treatments. In this guide, we’ll break down dry and dehydrated skin, how to tell the difference, and how to create an effective skincare routine tailored to each.
Understanding Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin
Characteristics of Dry Skin
Dry skin is a skin type that lacks natural oils (sebum), often leading to rough texture and flakiness. Cold weather, harsh skincare and being naturally prone to conditions like eczema can weaken the skin’s protective barrier, leading to persistent dryness and discomfort.
Common Signs:
- Tightness or itchiness
- Flakiness or rough patches
- Redness or irritation
- Dull appearance
Characteristics of Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a skin condition caused by a lack of water, which can affect all skin types, including oily skin. Environmental factors such as cold winds, sun exposure and indoor heating and over-exfoliating can strip the skin of moisture, resulting in dehydration.
-Common Signs:
- A feeling of tightness or sensitivity
- Lack of elasticity (skin may appear less plump)
- Fine lines or wrinkles that are more noticeable
- A dull, tired appearance
How To Build An Effective Skincare Routine
Step 1: Cleanser
Start with a mild, hydrating cleanser that does not strip the skin of its natural oils as this can exacerbate both dry and dehydrated skins. Our Alpha Paradise Cleansing Dew contains natural plant oils and omega 3’s to neutralise environmental damage and maintain skin’s delicate pH.
Step 2: Exfoliation
Incorporate gentle exfoliation, 1-2 times twice a week, to promote cell turnover and remove dead skin cells. For dry skin, opt for our Pure Active Peel with plant oils and muscovado sugar to manually remove flaky skin while nourishing.
For dehydrated skin, we recommend the Resurface and Radiance Peel, a leave on mask with enzymes that evenly exfoliate to separate dead skin cells sticking together away as it hydrates.
Step 3: Hydrate
For dehydrated skin, focus on replenishing moisture which humectants. Powerhouse hyaluronic acid is the key hydrator in our Alpha Glow Flash Facial Serum, an ideal choice to deeply hydrate by drawing moisture into the skin.
For dry skin, apply a lightweight, skin compatible oil like our VA Repair and Reglow Concentrate to replace the lost lipids and relieve flakiness and discomfort.
Step 4: Moisturiser
Lock in moisture with a rich moisturizer like our Amino Acids and Lipids Recovery Cream, formulated for dry and dehydrated skins, to envelope skin under a blanket of skin-identical hydrators to stimulate cell repair and restore your barrier function.
Step 5: Sun Protection
Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day. UV exposure can worsen both dry skin and dehydrated skin, so sun protection is an important final step.
