Your skin feels tight and flaky, is it dry? Or just dehydrated? Although they both tend to make your skin feel uncomfortable, there’s a big difference between the two. Find out the key signs of dry vs dehydrated skin to determine which one you might have and how to combat it.

Dry Skin

Dry Skin is a skin type that can be due to your body producing less sebum (oil) than normal skin which means your skin is lacking the lipids it needs to effectively retain moisture. Those who suffer from dry skin often find that their moisturisers, serums and creams soak in fairly quickly.

Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated skin is a common skin condition that occurs when there’s a lack of water in the skin. Did you know you can actually have an oily complexion but still have dehydrated skin? Dehydration in the skin can be caused by a range of factors such as lack of water, hot showers, weather (sun exposure), environment and diet.

So how can you tell the difference?

Some of the common signs of dehydrated skin include tightness, dullness and showing signs of premature ageing. Dark under-eye circles is another key indicator that you’re dehydrated. A great way to see if your dehydrated is the pinch test, where you pinch a small amount of skin of your face and see how quickly your skin snaps back. The longer it takes, the more likely you’re dehydrated.

On the other hand, those who suffer from dry skin will experience itching, flaking, redness, irritation and an overall uncomfortable feeling.

How do I combat dry skin?

1. Add a serum to your skincare routine that contains Hyaluronic Acid

2. Use a heavier moisturiser at night

3. Drink plenty of fluids and try to eat water-rich fruits and vegetables

4. Add a humidifier in your bedroom