How do you define dehydrated skin?
Dehydrated skin is growing more common as a skin descriptor, but what exactly does it mean? If you’re unsure what dehydrated skin is and what products can help your skin from feeling dehydrated, we’re here to provide some background information on the subject. Find out how what’s causing your skin to lack moisture and how the right skin care can restore your skin back to a healthy-looking, glowing complexion.
What Are Symptoms Of Dehydrated Skin?
Dehydrated skin and dry skin are often confused with each other but they are not one in the same. All skin types can become dehydrated at some point — it is a skin concern that is temporary. Dry skin is a specific skin type in which the skin produces very little or no oil.
“When skin is dehydrated, it looks dull, rough and has a lack of plumpness,” Dr. Angelike Galdi, Chief Scientific Advisor of Garnier SkinActive’s skin care labs told us. Hydration is essential to your skin looking firm and supple, without it, it seems deflated and skin issues such as fine lines can become more apparent.
What Causes Skin To Be Dehydrated?
There are a variety of reasons why your skin might be dehydrated. Some of them are environmental and some can be caused by skin care mistakes. “A weakened skin barrier, usage of harsh soap, or environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, excessive sun exposure, [can cause dehydrated skin],” says Dr. Galdi. If your skin is suddenly dehydrated try to pinpoint it to a change in your environment or in your skin care. If your skin is exposed to warmer temperatures it may be losing moisture quickly which is causing your skin to feel less moisturized. Or you may have introduced a product that’s too harsh that is removing moisture from your skin and making it look rough.
What Can Help Restore Hydration In Skin?
“There are several well-known humectants that are efficacious, for example: glycerin and hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Galdi. “They can attract water, and increase the moisture level of surface skin layers.” There are products that can help restore hydration. Look for product formulas without alcohol or fragrance as these can be naturally drying. Garnier SkinActive’s Moisture Rescue Actively Hydrating Daily Lotion Fragrance Free SPF 15 has a moisturizing, non-comedogenic formula infused with Glycerin, which helps keep skin actively hydrated throughout the day and helps strengthen skin's barrier to protect against moisture loss.
