Dry and dehydrated skin

Dry or dehydrated

Dry skin is a skin type: the oil glands make little sebum, the skin is more matte, with finer pores, and often rough to the touch. Dehydration is a condition and it passes: the skin feels tight, fine lines look deeper, and on oily skin it comes with a shine in the T-zone. One wants lipids, the other water, and both need an intact barrier, explained in the skin barrier.

Dry air, air conditioning, hot showers, wind and harsh cleansing dry out any skin. Many of the complaints go away once the cleansing becomes gentler and the cream goes on while the skin is still damp. More in skin hydration.

How the water is held

Care works on three levels: ingredients that draw water in, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and urea; emollients that fill the spaces between the cells; and ingredients that form a film and slow evaporation. That is why a serum with no cream on top is often not enough on dry skin.

In practice: cleanse with lukewarm water and a mild product, apply the serum to slightly damp skin, then a cream, and at night a richer cream or an overnight mask. If the skin flakes and itches constantly despite the care, seeing a dermatologist is sensible.