Dry vs Dehydrated Skin: Understanding the Difference – NIVEA

Learn the key differences between dry and dehydrated skin, their causes, symptoms & how to treat each condition effectively with NIVEA's comprehensive guide.

Dry vs Dehydrated Skin

It can be difficult for people to understand the difference between dry vs dehydrated skin. Although it is important to understand so you know the correct skincare solutions to treat your skin.

You have probably heard these terms interchangeably; you are most likely not aware that there’s a difference between dry vs dehydrated. The signs of both can appear very similar, however we will break this down, so the signs are clear.

It’s all about finding the best ingredient for dehydrated skin vs dry skin. Learning what your skin type is will motivate you to curate a personalised skin care routine to enhance your skin!

What’s the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin?

Dry to very dry skin is usually caused by a genetic condition resulting from a lack of natural oils. You may be wondering ‘Why is my skin so dry?’, well many people are born with this skin type. Those with skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema are more prone to dry skin. Dry skin may lead to discomfort, it may feel tight and sensitive especially when exposed to water. Your skin may appear scaly or flaky in texture.

Dehydrated skin is typically a temporary state caused by a lack of water in the skin, rather than a lack of oils. This may be due to your skin barrier or even your water intake. If you have a limited water intake, your skin will become dehydrated. Environmental impacts or an over exfoliating skincare routine, may also impact the hydration level in your skin, leading to dehydration.

Why is my skin so dry?

Dry skin causes

As previously mentioned, dry skin occurs when the skin lacks sufficient oil to maintain its natural barrier and hydration. So why is my skin so dry even when I moisturise? Well, this can be influenced by various internal and external factors, including:

Environmental factors: cold weather, UV exposure
You may notice your dry skin is seasonal, it is more common to have dry skin during winter months, when humidity levels are low. Or in summer when you have greater exposure to the sun.
Lifestyle choices: hot showers, harsh skincare products
If you take frequent baths or use very hot water, your risk to dry skin increases. Or you may be using harsh products on your skin. Try a gentle cleanser instead and limit acid use on your skin.
Medical conditions: eczema, psoriasis

You’re more likely to have dry skin if you experience eczema or psoriasis. Speak to a healthcare professional to find the right treatment for your dry skin.