Dry skin is one of the most misunderstood concepts in skin care. You may think that sounds ridiculous. Dry skin is dry skin, right? Well maybe it is…or maybe it isn’t. Is a plum a prune? I feel like I’m talking in circles here, so let me explain as best I can.
Truly dry skin is almost always thin textured with a tendency to wrinkle. This is due to a lack of oil, which results in moisture loss within the skin. Here’s how it works: Oil excretes from our pores to the skin’s surface…and water is constantly evaporating from our skin (like invisible sweating). The two meet at the surface of the skin and form what we call a hydrolipidic film. Hydro = water; lipid = oil. This is the skin’s “natural moisturizing factor.” Think of it as a sealant that binds moisture and other vital fluids to the skin. This sealant, or barrier, must be present in the right proportion to keep natural moisture intact. Truly dry skin lacks the oil necessary to ensure this balance.
Because of its weak barrier, dry skin is often (but not always) sensitive. It may be more inclined to be “stingy,” itchy, and flaky…or not. But whatever the case, it needs to be fortified with rich, emollient skin care products.
On the other hand, dehydration can be a concern for any skin type…even oily. In the quest to control oil, many oily and combination skin types use harsh products that strip the life out of skin, causing it to feel dry and tight. Strong cleansers, overuse of alpha hydroxyl acids, and alcohol-laden tonics (all drying), coupled with a lack of hydrating products like gel-based moisturizers, will parch even the oiliest skin.
So to sum up, dry skin is a natural skin type. Dehydrated skin is a skin concern caused by lack of moisture (which can turn a plum into a prune). Dehydrated skin can be hydrated back into shape quite easily. Dry skin will always be dry skin but can be kept in balance with the right skin care.
Are you confused about whether your skin is dry or dehydrated? Then ask yourself these SkinReading questions:
- Do you have very minimal or no t-zone oil at the end of the day?
- Do your pores appear to be invisible or barely visible?
- Is your skin thin textured?
If you answered yes to all three of the above, you have dry skin. If you said no to all three, your dry-feeling skin is probably just dehydrated, like that poor prune.
Still not sure? Go to our spa locator to find a skin care professional who can help you figure it all out.
Comments (8)
I always wondered why my skin could be so flaky and oily at the same time. Thanks for the information.
My esthetician told me during a skinreading that when you gently lift your cheek and you see tiny horizontal lines that’s a good indicator of dehydration. She recommended Geltherapy and custom blended it with deep hydration and it’s like a drink of water for my skin! I try and do this mask every week.
I always knew that I had dry skin, but this just confirmed it. To combat my dry skin, I love Really Rich Moisture and SPF 50 FaceScreen.
SkinReading question #1… I’m never sure about T-zone. I kind of have a large forehead, I know, thanks mom and dad – is it my entire forehead or just the center strip? Because I get some oil around the hairline but not in the middle of my forehead… make sense???
I also like Beyond Hydration. I didn’t know that there was a moisturizer available that wouldn’t make my skin breakout. I’ve been using my Great Skin in a Box for my oily skin and I really do see the difference! Thanks Bioelements!
Gretch: think of laying a giant upper case “T” on your face. The entire forehead, the nose and the chin make up your t-zone.
Thank you Barbara for this great information in further understanding how to address dry/dehydrated skin. Will be thinking of your message when working with clients in recommending and customizing their Bioelements At Home Skin Care programs.
Candice
I was always confused that I was seeing shine, but feeling tightness. I love Moisture x10 for a hydrating boost. Great info!