Ever wondered why your skin still feels tight and flaky even after slathering on moisturiser? The truth is, dry skin and dehydrated skin are not the same, and knowing the difference can transform your skincare routine.
Dry Skin: A Skin Type
Dry skin is a skin type, meaning it’s how your skin naturally behaves. It lacks oil (sebum), which can make it feel rough, tight, or itchy. This is often genetic, but environmental factors like cold weather can worsen it. People with dry skin often experience flaking, redness, and visible fine lines.
Dehydrated Skin: A Skin Condition
On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a temporary condition; even oily skin can become dehydrated. It lacks water, not oil, and is often caused by external stressors like harsh products, long showers, or even air-conditioning. You might see dullness, tightness, and increased sensitivity.
So yes, your skin can be oily and dehydrated at the same time.
How to Tell the Difference
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Dry skin feels tight all the time, especially after cleansing.
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Dehydrated skin feels tight but may look oily or dull.
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Try the pinch test: Gently pinch your cheek. If it wrinkles easily, you may be dehydrated.
Why It Matters
Using the wrong products can worsen your skin. Dry skin needs emollient-rich formulas (think oils, shea butter), while dehydrated skin needs hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
According to a recent clinical review, maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier is key to preventing both dryness and dehydration.
Less Fuss, More Feel-Good Skincare
At Chapter Skin, we understand the real-life skin struggles, especially when you're juggling a busy schedule. Our natural, sulphate-free, paraben-free products are designed for every skin type and lifestyle. Freshly made in small batches, our skincare keeps it simple, no jargon, no drama, just healthy skin with consistent use.
Each batch is a fresh start, and every skin deserves a new chapter.