Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin: What’s the Difference and How to Fix Both

When your skin feels tight, rough, or flaky, it’s easy to assume it’s just dry. But what if it’s actually dehydrated? Though often confused, dry skin and dehydrated skin are not the same—and treating one like the other might make things worse.

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between dry and dehydrated skin, how to tell which one you have, and what you can do to bring your skin back to life.

Dry Skin: A Skin Type

Dry skin is a skin type—something you’re born with or develop over time. It means your skin naturally produces less oil (sebum), which leads to a lack of lipids that help retain moisture.

Signs of Dry Skin:

• Flaky, rough patches

• A tight or dull appearance

• Redness or irritation

• Small pores

• Increased sensitivity

Causes of Dry Skin:

• Genetics

• Aging (skin produces less oil as we age)

• Cold, dry weather

• Harsh soaps or over-cleansing

How to Treat Dry Skin:

• Use rich, emollient-based moisturizers (look for ingredients like kokum butter

• Avoid foaming or stripping cleansers

• Use gentle exfoliation 1–2x a week to remove dead skin

• Apply occlusives like a face oil such as Superfruit and Cacay Face Serum night to seal in moisture

Dehydrated Skin: A Skin Condition

Dehydrated skin is a temporary condition—it means your skin lacks water, not oil. Even oily and acne-prone skin types can become dehydrated, especially if the skin barrier is compromised.

Signs of Dehydrated Skin:

• Tightness and discomfort

• Dull, tired-looking skin

• Fine lines that appear more pronounced

• Increased oiliness (skin overproduces oil to compensate for lack of water)

• Occasional breakouts

Causes of Dehydrated Skin:

• Weather changes (heat or cold)

• Indoor heating or air conditioning

• Overuse of exfoliants or retinoids

• Not drinking enough water

• Stress, diet, or alcohol

How to Treat Dehydrated Skin:

• Use a hydrating serum with ingredients like tamarind, beet and aloe vera- such as Tamarind and Oat Hydra Boost Serum

• Layer a moisturizer on top to seal in hydration

• Avoid over-washing and over-exfoliating

• Drink plenty of water and eat water-rich foods (like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens)

Dry vs. Dehydrated: Quick Comparison

Can You Have Both?

Yes! Many people—especially in winter or after using strong products—experience both dry and dehydrated skin. In this case, it’s important to:

1. Hydrate first with a water-based serum

2. Moisturize with a nourishing cream 

3. Use a Face Oil to seal in moisture

Products to try: Tamarind and Oat Hydra Boost Serum, Balance and Brighten Day Cream, followed by Superfruit and Cacay Face Serum.

Also try incorporating AHA’s weekly such as the AHA and Blue Tansy Night Cream which has been clinically proven to remove dead skin and boost moisture content. 

Final Thoughts

Knowing whether your skin is dry or dehydrated can transform your skincare routine. Listen to your skin, adjust your products accordingly, and give it the hydration or nourishment it truly needs.

Pro Tip: Keep a skincare journal to track how your skin reacts to seasons, and habits—this can help you stay in tune with your skin’s ever-changing needs.