HYDRATING FACIAL FOR DRY SKIN | TREATMENT NEAR YOU
What is Dry or Dehydrated Skin?
Dry and dehydrated skin are common issues that can make the skin feel uncomfortable, rough, or tight. Although people often use the terms interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Dry skin, also called xerosis, is a skin type that lacks natural oils. Without enough sebum, the skin struggles to stay soft and supple. By contrast, dehydrated skin is a condition where the skin lacks water. Even oily or combination skin types can experience dehydration.
Dryness is usually long-term and influenced by genetics, age, or medical conditions. Dehydration is often temporary and caused by factors such as climate, diet, or stress. Both can occur at the same time, leaving the skin flaky, tight, and less resilient.
Recognizing whether your skin lacks oil (dry) or water (dehydrated) is an important first step in choosing the right care.
Dry or Dehydrated Skin Treatment at Spruce Medispa
What causes dry or dehydrated skin?
Dry skin occurs when the sebaceous glands do not produce enough oil. Genetics, aging, cold or dry climates, and harsh cleansers can all contribute. Medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, thyroid disorders, or diabetes may also worsen dryness.
Dehydrated skin has different triggers. Common causes include weather extremes, not drinking enough water, high caffeine or alcohol intake, and skincare habits that strip water from the skin, such as over-exfoliating or using products with high alcohol content. Stress and poor sleep can also make it harder for the skin to hold onto water.
In short, dry skin lacks oil, while dehydrated skin lacks water. Both may leave the skin irritated and uncomfortable.
What conditions are associated with dry or dehydrated skin?
Dry skin can sometimes be linked to chronic skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. It may also be related to medical issues like thyroid disease or diabetes, where the skin struggles to maintain proper oil balance.
Dehydrated skin, while usually temporary, can make existing skin concerns worse. It often exaggerates the appearance of fine lines, dullness, and dark circles under the eyes. In some cases, the skin overproduces oil to compensate for lost water, which may trigger breakouts.
Both dryness and dehydration weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritation, infection, and premature signs of aging.
Can dry or dehydrated skin be treated at home?
Dry skin benefits from gentle cleansers, regular moisturizing, and avoiding harsh soaps or fragrances. Dehydrated skin usually improves when triggers are addressed, such as drinking more water, reducing caffeine, and protecting the skin from extreme weather.
Lifestyle changes like eating more fruits and vegetables, managing stress, and maintaining good sleep habits can also support healthier skin.
However, if dryness or dehydration does not improve despite good habits, or if it causes pain or persistent irritation, professional advice may be needed.