Dry vs Dehydrated Skin: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

If your skin feels tight, flaky, or irritated, you might assume it’s just dry. But there’s a crucial difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin—and treating them the same way can make things worse.

• Dry skin lacks oil. It’s often hereditary and needs long-term support.

• Dehydrated skin lacks water. It’s usually caused by environment, lifestyle, or harsh products—and it’s reversible.

Both conditions compromise your skin’s barrier, leading to inflammation, acne, and premature ageing. But with the right approach, you can restore balance and resilience.

How to Tell the Difference

Dry SkinDehydrated SkinLacks oilLacks waterOften geneticOften environmentalFeels rough or flakyFeels tight or dullNeeds lipid-rich productsNeeds water-binding ingredients

Step-by-Step Routine

1. Cleanse Gently Use a creamy, oil-rich cleanser morning and night. Double cleanse to remove makeup and impurities—no wipes or cotton wool. Tepid water only, and pat dry with a soft towel.

2. Apply a Targeted Serum

• For dehydrated skin: Hyaluronic acid

• For dry skin: Hyaluronic acid + Vitamin E Always apply serum before moisturiser—never alone, as it can evaporate and worsen dehydration.

3. Lock It In with Moisturiser

• Dry skin: Emulsifying moisturiser

• Dehydrated skin: Water-rich moisturiser Look for ingredients like glycerine, urea, ceramides, and jojoba oil (great for acne-prone skin).

Art Derma Hydra Peptide is a standout choice. It contains tara seed extract—a powerful antioxidant that forms a protective barrier while allowing deeper cells to repair and retain moisture.

🌬 Environmental & Lifestyle Support

• Use a humidifier in dry environments

• Supplement with marine collagen, evening primrose oil, omega 3 & 6

• Eat protein, nuts, and seeds for amino acids and vitamin E

• Avoid sugar, caffeine, and refined carbs

• Protect skin during outdoor exercise and post-swim routines

Question	Answer
What’s the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?	Dry skin lacks oil and is often genetic. Dehydrated skin lacks water and is usually caused by environmental factors or harsh products.
Can I treat dehydrated skin with oil?	Not effectively. Dehydrated skin needs water-binding ingredients like hyaluronic acid—not just oils.
What’s the best cleanser for dry or dehydrated skin?	A creamy, oil-rich cleanser with mild ingredients. Avoid acids and harsh surfactants.
Should I use serum before or after moisturiser?	Always before. Serums penetrate deeply, but need moisturiser to lock them in and prevent evaporation.
Can lifestyle affect my skin’s hydration?	Yes. Air conditioning, diet, exercise, and even swimming can impact your skin’s barrier and hydration levels.
What’s a good moisturiser for dry, inflamed skin?	Art Derma Hydra Peptide. It contains tara seed extract to protect against UV damage and support barrier repair.