Dry Vs Dehydrated Skin: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments And More

Dry Vs Dehydrated Skin: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments And More

Contrary to common belief, dry skin and dehydrated skin are not one and the same. In simple terms – dry skin is the lack of natural oils in the dermis that prevent TEWL. On the other hand, dehydration is a concern due to the absence of moisture molecules in your skin’s outermost layer. 

In this blog, we delve deeper into the textbook definitions of dryness and dehydration. Additionally, we discuss the symptoms, the causes and the treatments for the two at length. So, keep reading! 

What Is Dry Skin? 

For those unaware, the sebaceous glands in the dermis produce natural oils – responsible for your skin’s moisturization. This natural moisturization is indispensable to the taut, supple feel of the skin. Moreover, these innately occurring oils form a protective barrier on the skin, putting a sturdy lock on its water reservoir. Well, dryness occurs when your skin produces less than adequate natural oils. 

One of the four skin types (oily, sensitive and combination) – dry skin can happen due to genetics, temperamental weather conditions and harsh skincare products. 

What Are The Symptoms Of Dry Skin? 

Dry skin can look different for different people. Here are the most common symptoms of dry skin.

1. Flakiness

2. Scaly texture

3. Inflamed skin

4. Irritation or itching

So, What Is The Solution For Dry Skin? 

To maintain this skin type, you need to adhere to a solid skin care for dry skin with a focus on moisturization. That’s right! Dry skin is characterized by the absence of ample natural oils, therefore demanding regular and deep-level moisturization. 

A potent moisturizer contains emollients, occlusives and humectants that create a protective layer on the dermis, preventing signs of flakiness, scales and redness. 

The Best Moisturizer For Dry Skin 

Scouting the web for the best dry skin moisturizers? We have got you covered.

Hydrating Moisturizer With Ceramides: The moisturizer features super ingredient Ceramide in the forefront that upholds the barrier to prevent TEWL. Moreover, Olive Oil and Squalane in the formula ensure long-lasting moisturization for smooth, soft skin. You can also use the Hydrating Moisturizer for dehydrated skin (more on that later). 

What Is Dehydration? 

Dehydration is a concern (not skin type) that can occur across different skin types. It is defined as the absence of adequate water content in your skin’s outermost layer. 

Dehydration of the skin can lead to other short and long-term concerns. For example, perpetually dehydrated skin is more prone to early signs of skin ageing like fine lines, wrinkles, laugh creases, crow’s feet and more. But that’s not all, dehydrated skin can also hamper barrier health and functionality. Plus, the big under-eye bags or dark circles can also become glaringly visible when your skin is criminally dehydrated.     

What Are The Symptoms Of Dehydrated Skin? 

 Wondering if your skin’s moisture reservoir is running low? Examine it for the following symptoms- 

1, Pale skin

2. Conspicuous dark circles

3. Dullness

4. Itchiness (in some cases)

How To Treat Dehydrated Skin? 

Once you have recognized that your skin, is in fact, dehydrated. How should you treat it? 

This is where humectants come into the picture. For the unversed, humectants found in several hydrating skin products hold water molecules to the skin. Think of a humectant as a tall glass of water that quenches your skin’s thirst for sustained hydration. 

One of the most potent humectants, Hyaluronic Acid, can hold water molecules – approximately X 1000 its weight to the skin. Other examples of humectants include Glycerine, Lactic Acid, Honey and more. 

The Best Hyaluronic Acid Products On Foxtale 

Humectant Hyaluronic Acid can be employed in your skincare in different forms. Having said that, HA is most effective in its serum format. Due to its thin consistency and high concentration of the active, the serum travels into the deepest layers of the skin – working its magic. 

Ahead, we take a look at the best-selling Foxtale products with Hyaluronic Acid as the star ingredient. You can read the list at leisure and shop!

1. Hydrating Face Wash

Foxtale’s Hydrating Face Wash removes dirt, grime, and impurities from the skin while ensuring a balanced microbiome. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) and Red Algae Extracts that deeply hydrate the skin. Additionally, Vitamin B5 fades acne, marks and spots with use.

2. Hydrating Serum

With Hyaluronic Acid and 5 other hydrators, this serum is the perfect match for dehydrated skin. It instantly plumps up the skin, softens lines or wrinkles and offsets episodes of inflammation. If you struggle with dehydration and sensitivities, this product should be on your shopping list.

3. Hydrating Moisturizer

To reverse extreme dehydration, try the Hydrating Moisturizer. Other than Olive Oil and Squalane which help with long-lasting moisturization, it contains Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer – a form of Hyaluronic Acid. This ingredient expertly binds water molecules to the skin for long-lasting and multi-level hydration. 

Conclusion -

Dry skin and dehydrated skin are not the same. To reiterate, dry skin is a skin type (along with oily, combination and sensitive). It occurs due to the lack of natural oils in the dermis, leading to symptoms like white flakiness, scaly texture and redness. On the other hand, dehydration is a prevalent concern characterized by a lack of ample water content in the outermost layer of the skin. Dehydration can lead to other woes like dullness, conspicuous dark circles, an impaired lipid barrier and more. 

 FAQs 

1. How to know if my skin is dehydrated?

The pinch test is the fastest way to determine skin dehydration. Pinch the skin at the lack of your hand. If it bounces back within 3 seconds, your skin is hydrated. If not, reach out for humectant-based formulas to replenish your skin’s moisture content.

2. Does dehydrated skin need a moisturizer?

Definitely! Moisturizer is non-negotiable regardless of the concern. Pick a humectant-infused moisturizer for dehydration that replenishes your skin moisture content and then seals it.

3. What are the best ingredients for dehydrated skin?

Ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, Lactic Acid and more bode well for dehydrated skin. 

Isha Rane

Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her k...

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Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her k...

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April 20, 2023

Guide to Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Has your skin been looking dry, rough or exceptionally flaky? If yes, it is time to take a long, hard look at your skincare. Chances are your moisturizer isn’t able to measure up. You see, dry skin occurs when the dermis loses water molecules drastically to become dehydrated. The easiest and most efficient fix for this problem is to add a potent moisturizer to your skincare rotation. For the unversed, a moisturizing formula creates a protective film atop your skin, preserving hydration for prolonged periods. Moreover, it boosts barrier health, alleviates flakiness (or roughness), and grants your smooth, supple skin around the clock. Due to a moisturizer's ability to seal hydration, it is non-negotiable for all skin types – especially dry skin. This is because dry skin lacks natural moisturization due to diminished sebum or oil production. But before we help you pick the best moisturizer, here’s everything you need to know about dry skin. What Causes Dry Skin? Before learning how to reverse dry, flaky skin – you must know the causes of dry skin. They are as follows 1. Ageing: As you age, your skin loses its ability to produce oils adequately – leading to dry, flaky skin. 2. Harsh soap and skincare: Using harsh soap or skin care products can zap moisture molecules from the skin, making it dry. To avoid this, steer clear of formulas infused with alcohol, SLS, artificial dyes, and other harmful chemicals. 3. Overwashing: While cleansing twice a day is non-negotiable, overwashing proves counterproductive to great skin. Overwashing dislodges natural oils from the skin, making it dry in the process. 4. Your immediate surroundings: If you’re couped up in an air-conditioned office all day, chances are that your skin becomes inexplicably dry. This is because air cons are designed to suck the moisture from their immediate surroundings. 5. Extreme weather conditions: Extreme hot and humid weather or cold, chilly winds can also make your skin dry, making it appear rough and flaky on the outside. What Are The Best Ingredients For Dry Skin Moisturizer? When choosing a moisturizer for dry skin, it is also important to look for ingredients that will help soothe and nurture the skin. Some key ingredients to look for include 1. Hyaluronic Acid: You will often find Hyaluronic Acid gracing the labels of best hydrating skincare products. The humectant binds water molecules to the skin, approximately X1000 in its weight. It helps ensure multi-level hydration, fewer fine lines or wrinkles, and accelerated skin healing. 2. Ceramides: Super ingredient Ceramides create a protective layer on the dermis, preventing transepidermal water loss. They keep your skin hydrated for prolonged periods and boost barrier health. 3. Niacinamide: Topical application of Niacinamide helps retain moisture molecules in the skin. Moreover, the versatile active ingredient strengthens barrier function and alleviates flare-ups on the skin. 4. Squalane: Squalane ensures long-lasting moisturization by mimicking your skin’s natural sebum. The lightweight and non-greasy ingredient doesn’t clog the pores, making it a great choice to revive dry, dull skin. 5. Vitamin C: The holy grail of brightening – Vitamin C also possesses moisturizing properties. Use a Vitamin C infused moisturizer in your morning routine to preserve hydration and shield the skin against menacing free radicals. Types Of Moisturizers For Dry Skin There are 2 types of moisturizers: creams and lotions Creams are typically the best option for extremely dry skin, as they are thicker and more hydrating than lotions. Lotions are lighter and more fluid than their counterparts. Due to their high water content, lotions seep easily into the skin for intense hydration. No greasiness or ickiness whatsoever. If you have mildly dry skin, lotions are the way to go. You may switch to heavier creams in winter when the air is cold and dry. How To Use Moisturizer Effectively? To make the most of your moisturizer, here are some tried and tested techniques you should follow 1. The 3-minute rule: One of the best moisturizing techniques – applying it within 3 minutes of showering. A generous slather of moisturizer while your skin is damp, helps lock in maximum hydration. 2. Double down on hydration efforts with serums (or treatments): Before using moisturizer to lock hydration into your skin, we recommend using a serum or a targeted treatment. Formulas infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Betaine, and Aquaporin Boosters bind water molecules to the skin, doubling down on hydration efforts. 3. Moisturizer application tips: Once the serum sinks into the skin – use upward strokes of your fingertips to apply the moisturizer. This little technique improves blood circulation to the skin, boosting its glow. Top-rated Moisturizer For Dry Skin We have researched and tested several products to help you choose the best dry skin moisturizers. Our top picks include: 1. Ceramide Supercream Hydrating Moisturizer: Infused with Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and Ceramides, this formulation is for all skin types. It protects your skin from environmental irritants while strengthening your skin barrier. 2. Skin Repair Cream: With Niacinamide and Provitamin B5 at the forefront, this moisturizer is a great fit for folks with extremely dry and sensitive skin. It uses ERS (Enhance-Replenish-Seal) technology to immensely hydrate, nourish, and heal the skin. 3. Nourishing Moisturizer: Enriched with Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Kokum Butter –the nourishing moisturizer repairs dry, flaky skin in a single swipe. A perfect addition to your winter skincare rotation, the lightweight formula bestows a dewy radiance upon your skin. Bonus Dry Skincare Tips Here are some additional tips and tricks to combat dryness or flakiness 1. Using a humidifier in your home will add moisture to the air. This is important during the winter months when the air is dry. 2. Drink enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. 3. Don't take hot showers and baths, as they strip the skin of natural oils and lead to dryness. 4. Exfoliate often to remove dead skin cells and allow moisturizer to penetrate more deeply 5. In addition to using a moisturizer for dry skin, developing a comprehensive skincare routine is important. This should include cleansing, toning, moisturising, and any additional treatments that address specific skin concerns. Conclusion Moisturizer for dry skin is an essential component of any skincare routine. When choosing a moisturizer, look for body cream for dry skin that contains hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Incorporate moisturizing tips into your daily routine to keep your skin looking healthy and hydrated. And don't forget to develop a comprehensive skincare routine that addresses all your skin concerns. FAQs: 1. What should I look for in a moisturizer for dry skin? Look for moisturizers that contain humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, as they help to attract moisture to the skin. Additionally, occlusive ingredients like Provitamin B5, squalane, or kokum butter can help to lock in moisture and prevent water loss from the skin. 2. How often should I apply moisturizer to my dry skin? You should apply moisturizer to dry skin once in the morning and once at night. You may need to apply more frequently if your skin is particularly dry. 3. Can using too much moisturizer cause my skin to become oily? No, using too much moisturizer will not make your skin oily. However, using a moisturizer that is too heavy for your skin type may lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Be sure to choose a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type 4. Are there any other tips for keeping my dry skin hydrated? Yes, there are a few other things you can do to help keep your dry skin hydrated. Avoid using hot water when washing your face, as it can strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Additionally, try to avoid using harsh exfoliants or scrubs, as they can further irritate dry skin. Finally, consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air. 5. How often should I apply moisturizer for dry skin? You should apply moisturizer for dry skin twice daily – in your morning and nighttime skincare routine. Use a cleanser to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities before layering your favourite moisturizer. 6. Can I use the same moisturizer for my face and body? We recommend using a moisturizer formulated for the body – on the body. A body cream is thicker and heavier in consistency as compared to its facial counterpart. 7. What is the difference between a lotion, a cream, and an ointment for dry skin? Creams are heavier and thicker than lotions. They sit on the lipid barrier to prevent TEWL, ensuring long-lasting hydration for the skin. Lotions are light and quick absorbing. They have high water contents – perfect for mildly dry or flaky skin. Ointments contain the most oil and are perfect for extremely dry and cracked skin. 8. Can moisturizing help with eczema or psoriasis? Yes. Keeping your skin’s moisture levels intact prevents eczema and psoriasis from flaring up. 9. Can I use a moisturizer if I have oily skin? Yes. Look for a moisturizer that is lightweight, non-greasy, and doesn’t clog pores. 10. Can a moisturizer make my skin oily? No, a good moisturizer shouldn’t make your skin oily. 11. How long does it take for moisturizer to show results on dry skin? Moisturizers start showing results within 2 weeks of use. Ensure to be consistent with the product. 12. Can I use a moisturizer in combination with other skincare products? Yes, you can. To make the most of your moisturizer, add it to your daily skincare routine > Start by cleansing with a gentle, non-drying face wash > Follow up with a Hyaluronic Acid or Niacinamide Serum to double down on hydration > Next, apply a coin-sized amount of the moisturizer to seal the hydration > Finally, apply 2 fingers’ worth of SPF for maximum sun protection

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