Tight, flaky, dehydrated and dry are descriptions I hear on a daily basis when people talk about their skin. These symptoms are often worsened during change of season and in particular colder weather. Before looking at tips to manage dry or dehydrated skin, it’s important to look at the differences between the two.
Dry skin refers to a skin that is lacking in oil. Dehydrated skin is lacking water in the outer layers. While dry skin is a specific skin type anyone even oily or acne skin can experience dehydration. Where the confusion starts is that both skin concerns feel quite similar and can both experience similar symptoms. This can easily lead to wrong product choices which can hinder optimum results.
Common complaints of dry or dehydrated skin
- A tight feeling particularly after cleansing or showering
- Dull skin or lack of radiance
- Rough or flaking patches of skin
- Redness or irritation
Why does it happen?
- Natural ageing of the skin plays a big role here. Our skin slows down production of our own natural moisturiser hyaluronic acid. This accelerates with age leading to the common complaint of feeling drier as we get older.
- We lose blood flow to our skin as we age. This has many knock on effects including lack of radiance. It can also affect our skins barrier function which can cause moisture to evaporate more easily from the skin.
- Lifestyle factors such as lack of water can rob your skin of essential moisture. Excess alcohol or caffeine intake will also have the same effect.
- Lack of fats in diet can directly affect your skin.
Tips to treat
- Reduce caffeine intake. Try to supplement with caffeine free herbal teas such as peppermint or ginger.
- Don’t cut out fat completely from your diet. This can play havoc with moisture levels in your skin. Choose foods rich in omegas such as avocado, salmon, flaxseed and walnuts. These feed your skin with essential fatty acids giving a glowing and hydrated complexion.
- Use a light enzyme exfoliant or mask at least once a week. Dehydration can affect your skins natural renewal process causing build-up of dead skin. A gentle exfoliant will help to relieve a tight feeling in the skin and help with delivery of all of your other products.
- Avoid harsh cleansers and toners which can strip the skin of natural moisture. Avoid soaps, shower gels and anything full of suds on your face.
- Get on the right skincare routine. Choosing the right skin care products for dryness or dehydration will make all the difference to your end results. They will also stimulate the skins natural moisturising action helping your skin do its job. Seek professional advice on what products will give you the best results possible.
- For an optimum hydration boost, have a professional facial. Your skin will thank you for it!
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