How do I figure out if my skin is dry or dehydrated? And how do I fix it?

You will often hear people refer to their skin as dry or dehydrated interchangeably, however, they are two separate issues with distinctly different needs. If you're unsure how to tell the difference between the two, read on.

How to figure out your skin type

An easy way to figure out if your skin is dry or dehydrated is to wash your face and leave it without adding any products to it. After 15-20 mins is it getting dry and tight, or oily?
Dry skin will feel tight and dry, as it is lacking oils.
Dehydrated skin after 15-20 minutes will start producing oils, as the skin starts producing oil to compensate for the lack of water.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is a skin type caused by a lack of oil production. This characteristic is generally consistent over time. Symptoms of dry skin include:

• A feeling of tightness, especially after cleansing.

• A rough, flaky, or scaly texture.

• Itchiness.

• Dullness and a lack of sheen.

• More visible lines.

How to manage your dry skin

• Use Cleanser at Night Only
  Wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the evening. In the morning, stick to rinsing with water only. This prevents disrupting the natural oils your skin produces overnight, helping it function better throughout the day.

• Layer a Milky, Hydrating Toner
  For dry skin, opt for a thicker, moisturizing toner. Apply one or more layers if you’re feeling extra parched—this can give your skin a much-needed hydration boost.

• Choose Rich Moisturizers
  Look for formulas containing emollients and ceramides to help replenish your skin’s natural barrier. This added nourishment keeps dryness at bay and supports overall skin health.

• Slug a Few Nights a Week
  Seal in all that moisture by applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly, Aquaphor, or baby butt cream (zinc cream) before bed. You’ll wake up with softer, more hydrated skin.
  - If you’d rather skip petroleum-based products, add a few drops of facial oil as the last step of your nighttime routine. It locks in moisture while keeping your skin feeling lightweight and comfortable.

  
  

For product recommendations for dry skin, check out this post.

Dehydrated Skin

On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a condition that results from a lack of water in the skin, not oil. It can affect anyone, regardless of their skin type - in fact it is very common for oily skin types to be dehydrated. Signs of dehydrated skin include:

• Dullness and less vibrant skin tone.

• Increased appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, often described as crepey skin.

• Tightness, even if the skin feels oily or shows visible oil.

• Possible itching or irritation.

• Absorption of products more quickly than usual.

How to rehydrate your dehydrated skin:

• Boost Your Water Intake
  Stay hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day.

• Choose a Gentle Cleanser
  Avoid harsh, stripping formulas. Opt for mild cleansers that preserve your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

• Integrate Hydrating Ingredients
  Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. These ingredients help draw moisture into the skin and lock it in.

• Avoid Hot Showers
  Excessively hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils. Use lukewarm water to keep dryness at bay.

• Use a Humidifier
  Adding moisture to the air helps prevent your skin from drying out—especially in colder or drier climates.

• Exfoliate Wisely
  Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week can remove dead skin cells, improving absorption of hydrating products. Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can cause irritation.

• Lock In Moisture
  Apply moisturizer or hydrating serums on damp skin to seal in water and maintain a plump, hydrated complexion.
  

For products recommendations for dehydrated skin, check out this guide.

Let's glow together!