The terms "dry skin" and "dehydrated skin" are often used interchangeably to refer to the same thing. What exactly is this?
Dry skin lacks oil/sebum , and dehydrated skin lacks moisture . Dry skin is a skin type, while dehydrated skin is a skin condition that can affect anyone. For example, someone with oily skin can also have dehydrated skin at the same time. Confusingly, people with both dry and dehydrated skin can experience flaking, itchiness, sensitivity, tightness, and dullness.
So, a quick overview of the differences:
Characteristics
Dry skin
Dry skin is everywhere, including the hands and scalp. It's very prone to premature aging and requires constant nourishment through oil-rich products. Dry skin has a fine texture and very small pores. Furthermore, dry skin often looks dull and feels tight immediately after washing. Dry skin is also prone to wrinkles and rarely breaks out.
Dehydrated skin
Dehydrated skin can appear oily and dry at the same time. This skin condition is usually temporary and can arise due to environmental factors such as climate or diet. In dehydrated skin, the skin's natural protective layer (the lipid/fat layer) is too low, causing moisture to evaporate from the skin. Dehydrated skin therefore needs constant hydration and is primarily recognized by fine lines, flaking, and a feeling of tightness. A tight glow is often noticeable on the forehead and cheeks. Furthermore, dark spots can be a sign of dehydration.
Causes
Although dry skin can be congenital, it is often the result of poor daily skin care habits and/or lifestyle choices. The main causes of dry skin are
- Shower and bath habits : The combination of soaps, bath products, and shower gels with harsh surfactants and very hot water not only removes dirt, but also compromises the skin barrier, drying out the skin.
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The use of certain ingredients in personal care products : Synthetic ingredients such as fragrances and preservatives in skin care creams or lotions can damage the skin barrier, reducing the skin's ability to retain moisture.
Diet and lifestyle: A lack of certain nutrients, such as protein and certain fats, as well as not drinking enough and smoking, can dry out the skin from within. - Age: As we age, hormonal changes cause our skin to become drier. Especially during and after menopause, many women notice their skin is much drier. Estrogen levels decrease, making the skin thinner and drier.
- Weather conditions: Cold temperatures, wind, and dry air dry out the skin even more from the outside. Therefore, during the winter, your skin may feel even drier.
- UV radiation: Too much sunlight can dry out your skin.
- Dry air in the home: The ideal humidity level in the home is around 45-50%. If humidity levels are lower, usually due to heating or air conditioning, your skin can become drier. A humidifier or water trays can help.
- Stress: Stress not only disrupts skin function, but also affects the production of proteins in the skin that help retain moisture.
- Sensitive skin: In sensitive skin, the defense mechanism that protects the body from external stimuli is disrupted. This can cause dry skin. This is why dry skin and sensitive skin often go together.
- Heredity: Dry skin can be hereditary and therefore congenital.
Careful
- Adapt your shower or bath ritual: Keep showers as short and cool as possible (max. 37 degrees). Use natural, gentle shower creams that don't damage your skin's protective layer, but rather enrich it. After showering, moisturize your skin with a body cream .
- Cleanse your face without water: If your facial skin is very dry, you can cleanse it without water for several weeks. Use a milk/toner combination or a mineral cleansing gel . See how your skin reacts, whether it becomes calmer and more supple. If so, you can also switch to a soap-free cleansing gel once a day.
- Nourish your skin with rich creams and add a serum to your daily routine: After cleansing, use a serum of your choice and leave it on for a few minutes. Then, apply a facial cream for dry skin until your skin feels pleasantly nourished.
- Face Mask : Use a face mask for dry skin 1 or 2 times to further nourish and hydrate your skin.
- Nourish your skin from within and choose a healthy lifestyle: Drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water a day and include plenty of protein and healthy fats rich in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. Also, make sure you relax, exercise, and get enough sleep. Quit smoking and limit your alcohol consumption.
