Dry skin or dehydrated skin: what's the difference and what can you do about it?

Tight, taut, flaky, or rough to the touch. Sound familiar? Many people call it dry skin, but there's an important distinction that determines the care you need.

What is dry skin?

Dry skin is a skin type. This means that the sebaceous glands naturally produce little sebum. The skin therefore lacks the fatty acids needed to keep the skin barrier intact. Dry skin is innate and does not simply change.

Characteristics: rough to the touch, flakiness, tendency to redness, small pores, less shine.

What is dehydrated skin?

Dehydrated skin is a skin condition, not a skin type. This means that any skin can become dehydrated, even oily skin. The skin has too little water in its skin cells. This can be caused by using the wrong products, over-cleansing, climate, stress, or age.

Characteristics: tight feeling after washing, taut to the touch, fine lines that temporarily disappear after a cream, skin that doesn't feel comfortable despite care.

What do you use for dry skin?

• Richer creams with ceramides, shea, or plant oils
• Avoid harsh cleansers that further dry out the skin
• Use a gentle cleansing milk or cleansing oil
• Optionally add a nourishing mask once or twice a week

What do you use for dehydrated skin?

• Hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid as the first step after cleansing
• Apply to slightly damp skin for the best effect
• Finish with a cream to lock in moisture
• Drink enough water and pay attention to indoor humidity

Products at Puur Diana

• View all products for dry and dehydrated skin
• The serums from Serums and Boosters contain excellent hydrating options.
• For richer care, check out our nourishing creams.
• The Juliette Armand Skin Boosters are specifically designed for intensive hydration and repair.

View products for dry and dehydrated skin

Results vary per person and skin type. If in doubt, we recommend a personalized skin consultation via the salon.