Dehydrated Skin: 4 Signs the Cold Weather is Dehydrating Your Skin

Before finding a solution to your dehydrated complexion, here’s a quick lesson on the difference between “dry” and “dehydrated” skin:

Dry skin is classified as a skin type and is inherited through your genetics. A dry skin type is predisposed to inadequate production of the skin’s natural oils (SkinInc). Dry skin can also be connected to hormonal imbalances or an underactive thyroid which can further inhibit the production of sebum, producing a complexion that is dry and lackluster in appearance (YouBeauty).

Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a skin condition. Dehydrated skin is often caused by external elements (weather), unhealthy diet (lack of fresh produce) and lifestyle choices (consumption of alcohol or caffeine). All of these factors deplete the skin’s water content, resulting in a less supple appearance (YouBeauty). The important thing to remember is that dehydration is a lack of water, not oil, so even oily skin types can be dehydrated (dermalinstitute.com).

Even though dehydrated skin can be uncomfortable, it’s often temporary and can be relieved with a combination of skin treatments and a healthy lifestyle. Below are 4 signs of dehydrated skin and how you can return your complexion to its natural glow.

Take a quick look in the mirror, does your skin have an overall dull, tired appearance with flaky spots and dark circles under your eyes? Despite the fact that you may need a little extra shut-eye, these are all telltale signs of a dehydrated complexion. Exfoliation is a no-fail way to brighten your dull dehydrated complexion. Opt for a gentle and natural exfoliant like our Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant that uses rice and chickpea flour to gently buff away flakes and dead skin. For the eye area, our Wild Plum Eye Cream helps reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Gently pinch the skin on the cheek. If it looks like you have fine lines, you are dehydrated,” recommends skincare expert Joanna Vargas. She also suggests looking for fine lines around your eyes and flakes on your forehead—additional signs that your skin could use some more water (xovain.com). The ingredient hyaluronic acid is extremely effective in retaining the skin’s hydration. Our Firm Skin Targeted Treatment contains this deeply hydrating miracle ingredient, a natural substance derived from the marshmallow plant that plumps the skin and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It’s also important to remember that, in combination with a healthy skincare routine, healthy lifestyle choices are essential for treating dehydrated skin. Simply lifestyle choices like drinking plenty of water, reducing alcohol and coffee consumption and increasing your intake of water-rich fruits and veggies (celery, cucumber and watermelon) will drastically help improve your skin’s hydration levels (Health.com).