Have you ever wondered what the difference between dry and dehydrated skin is?
Dehydrated skin: This is a skin condition, not a skin type. This can be caused by; dry climate, hard water, harsh products, or age. Contrary to popular belief, drinking more water will not cure dehydrated skin. In fact, your skin is the last organ to receive the water you ingest. Have ever heard of Trans-epidermal Water Loss aka TEWL? This is when evaporation occurs on the skin, so no matter how much water you consume your skin will still be dehydrated. Because of TEWL your skin may over compensate for lost water with oil production, thus causing oily skin. Therefore, even oily skin types can be dehydrated. To help combat dehydrated skin, you will need to add in humectants and occlusives. Humectants are ingredients that draw water from the air to your skin. These include: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, urea, etc. Occlusives act as a vacuum sealer for your skin that doesn’t allow anything in or out, protecting your skin from environmental aggresors and keeping in all the hydration. These include: dimethicone and oils.
Dry Skin: This is a skin type that you were born with and can not be cured, however it can be controlled. Dry skin lacks essential fatty acids that can be replenished with oils. When you have dry skin your barrier is always compromised, therefore leaving your skin unprotected from damage. Dry skin ages much more quickly than other skin types due to lacking the moisture your skin needs to appear youthful and radiant. Essential fatty acids high in Omega 3 and 6 are commonly used to combat dry skin symptoms. These include: grapeseed oil, avocado oil, argan oil, rosehip oil, maracuja oil, etc.
