How To Fix Dehydrated Skin

Moisturizers and oils can only do so much for dehydrated skin. This is because the hydration or water level of the skin differs from the oil level. A combination of hydration and moisturization are necessary to quench thirsty skin and lock in lasting moisture. Find out how to tell whether your skin is dehydrated and discover the best treatments for dehydrated and dry skin.

Why Skin Gets Dehydrated

Environmental factors are the most common reason why healthy skin gets dehydrated. Even a healthy skin barrier loses hydration over time during exposure to conditioned air, direct sun, extreme cold, high heat or wind.

People in hot and dry regions are more prone to have dehydrated skin. Use a gentle cleanser and hydrating products to compensate for conditions outdoors and indoors. In cold climates, extreme outdoor temperatures and prolonged exposure to dry, heated indoor air both draw moisture out of the skin. 

If your skin is dehydrated, you should use a gentle cleanser. Obagi Nu-Derm Gentle Cleanser is suitable for all skin types and removes excess oil, impurities, and makeup without stripping away healthy moisture levels. 

Hydration Versus Moisture

Hydration refers to the water content of the skin. The term “moisture” generally refers to water, and this holds true with skincare in a slightly different sense. A moisturizer helps skin retain more hydration and stay moist for longer. 

It is not only possible but common, to have oily dehydrated skin. If you use harsh cleansers and products that undermine the skin barrier, your skin may rapidly lose hydration while overproducing oil. The best solution is to balance oil production and restore your skin barrier. 

A hydrating facial toner can bring hydration and moisture levels into balance. PCA Skin Hydrating Facial Toner is a formula that removes excess oil, hydrates skin and protects against free radical damage. 

Treatments for Dehydrated Skin

Restoring healthy skin barrier function is the most effective long-term solution for skin that has become dehydrated. Switching to a gentle cleanser and using hydrating products such as toner lay the foundation for targeted treatments, such as PCA Skin Rejuvenating pHaze 24 Serum.  

Anti-aging serum with epidermal growth factors stimulates cell growth with amino acids and vitamins. This treatment also contains osmoprotectants, which are compounds that protect cells from water loss to keep skin feeling and looking firm and smooth.

Many hydrating treatments contain hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains 1000 times its weight in moisture. This ingredient should be applied to moist skin or used with moisturizer to avoid extracting moisture from the skin.

Moisturize To Preserve Skin Hydration

Moisturizer plays an important part in helping dehydrated skin retain moisture. Even people who have oily skin should use an oil-free moisturizer. When preparing for the day, consider using a moisturizing sunscreen or wait a few minutes after applying skincare treatments and moisturizer before putting on sunscreen. 

Using hydrating skincare products and moisturizer overnight can help to heal a damaged skin barrier. Look for hydrating masks and rich moisturizers that you don’t have to worry about layering under makeup.

Repair a Damaged Skin Barrier

Gentle cleansing, regular moisturization, and sun protection can go a long way toward repairing mild to moderate skin barrier damage. You may need restorative treatments for a very damaged barrier. Try applying a soothing moisturizer such as PCA Skin Apres Peel Hydrating Balm twice a day or as needed.

Prolonged sun exposure is the most common cause of dehydrated skin. Wear sunscreen when you go outside and reapply at least every two hours during continuous exposure. Hats and sun-protective garments also reduce the dehydrating effects of the sun.

Maintain Healthy Skin Hydration Levels

Dehydrated skin certainly benefits from the water you drink. Drink at least six to eight cups of liquid a day to maintain healthy hydration levels in the skin and throughout your body. Consuming enough water and using hydrating skincare products can help skin gradually retain more hydration.

It is important to note the unique roles that water and natural oils play in skin health. Washing your face on a regular basis is essential for hydration and oil regulation, as is using a good moisturizer for dehydrated skin. Find out more about how to hydrate your skin and restore healthy barrier function from the LaLa Daisy Resource Center. You can also read this article from Moh’s Surgery Institute, How To Tell If Your Skin Is Dehydrated.