healthy detox drinks diet woman with fruit water

Dry vs Dehydrated Skin: How to Tell the Difference

The short answer: dry skin is a skin type caused by a lack of oil, while dehydrated skin is a condition caused by a lack of water, and it can affect any skin type, even oily skin. Dry skin feels tight and flaky; dehydrated skin absorbs moisture fast and shows fine lines when gently pinched. For both, try our Radiance range.

Ever wondered what the difference is between dry and dehydrated skin? Dry skin is a skin type, in the same way that normal, combination or oily skin are skin types. Dehydrated skin, however, is the condition of your skin. Dehydration can occur in all skin types – meaning your skin can be both oily and dehydrated at the same time. Dry skin is the result of a lack of oil, whereas dehydrated skin is the result of a lack of water.

How to tell if your skin is dry:Washing face with clean water

  • Your skin may feel ‘tight’, particularly after cleansing
  • You may experience rough patches or flakiness on the skin
  • Your skin may appear dull
  • Your skin may show signs of premature ageing

How to tell if your skin is dehydrated:

  • Your skin may look a little lack-lustre
  • Moreover, Your skin will absorb moisture very quickly
  • Your makeup may go patchy throughout the day, as your skin absorbs moisture from your base
  • If you gently pinch the skin on your forehead, you may see very fine lines or crepiness whilst the skin is manipulated.

Top tips:healthy detox drinks diet woman with fruit water

  • Get your beauty sleep! It’s true – your skin recovers whilst you sleep, so give it chance to do so! Your under eye dark circles will soon disappear too.
  • Drink more water – hydration is an important part of maintaining healthy skin (and in fact, a healthy body in general!) Taking those extra sips each day may make all the difference to your complexion.
  • Reduce caffeine and alcohol – both dehydrate your body which can have an effect on your skin. Think about what you’re putting into your body!
  • Use the right products! As well as thinking about what you’re putting into your body, you’ve got to keep in mind what you’re putting onto your skin! Focus on the ingredients and ensure you’ve got the right products for you. Find your perfect skincare products here!

Products for Dry and Dehydrated Skin

Read next: How to Care for Dehydrated Skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?

Dry skin is a skin type caused by a lack of oil. Dehydrated skin is a condition caused by a lack of water.

Can oily skin be dehydrated?

Yes. Dehydration can occur in all skin types, so skin can be oily and dehydrated at the same time.

How can I tell if my skin is dehydrated?

It absorbs moisture very quickly, makeup goes patchy and you may see fine lines when you gently pinch your forehead.