Dehydrated Skin
How To Treat Your Dehytrated Skin And What Products To Use For It
Dehydrated skin is a skin type that lacks water not oil, and it can be caused by a variety of factors such as environmental factors, genetics, and lifestyle choices. To properly care for dehydrated skin, it’s important to follow a skincare routine that focuses on hydrating and moisturizing the skin. Dehydrated skin can be caused by a lack of moisture in the skin and can result in dull, flaky, and itchy skin. Dehydrated skin can affect any skin type, including oily or combination skin. Treating dehydrated skin involves replenishing moisture and maintaining hydration levels. Here are some tips to help treat dehydrated skin:
Hydrating Cleanser:
Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Avoid harsh cleansers that may further contribute to dehydration.
Moisturize Regularly:
Apply a hydrating and nourishing moisturizer to your skin twice a day. Look for products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, or squalane.
Humidifier:
Use a humidifier in your living or bedroom, especially during the colder months. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can benefit your skin.
Hydrating Masks:
Incorporate hydrating masks into your skincare routine. These can provide an extra boost of moisture. Look for masks with ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or honey.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum:
Consider using a hyaluronic acid serum to attract and retain moisture in the skin. Apply it before your moisturizer for added hydration.
Avoid Hot Water:
Wash your face with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dehydration.
Exfoliate Gently:
Exfoliate the skin 1-2 times a week using a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and allow better absorption of hydrating products.
Limit Excessive Sun Exposure:
Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure, as it can contribute to dehydration. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Drink Plenty of Water:
Stay well-hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Proper hydration is crucial for overall skin health.
Balanced Diet:
Consume foods rich in water content, such as fruits and vegetables. A diet with a good balance of nutrients can contribute to healthy, hydrated skin.
Avoid Harsh Skincare Products:
Avoid using harsh or alcohol-based skincare products, as they can strip the skin of moisture. Choose products specifically formulated for hydration.
Alcohol-Free Toner:
If you use a toner, choose an alcohol-free, hydrating toner to balance the skin’s pH without causing dryness.
Avoid Over-Exfoliation:
Over-exfoliation can strip the skin of essential moisture. Stick to a gentle exfoliation routine and avoid using harsh exfoliants too frequently.
Consider Humectants:
Humectants like glycerin and propylene glycol draw water to the skin and help maintain hydration. Look for products containing these ingredients.
Consult a Dermatologist:
If your dehydrated skin persists or worsens despite your efforts, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and potential medical treatments.
Consistency in your skincare routine and lifestyle choices is crucial for treating dehydrated skin. If you find it challenging to manage on your own, seeking professional advice can help identify the underlying causes and determine the most effective treatment plan for your skin.
To properly care for dehydrated skin, you should follow a skincare routine that focuses on hydrating and moisturizing the skin.
Here are the steps and products that can help with dehydrated skin:
Step 1
Cleanse
Dehydrated skin lacks water and can feel tight, look dull, and may be prone to fine lines. Proper cleansing is crucial as it can either exacerbate or alleviate these issues. Here are some effective cleansing tips for dehydrated skin:
1. Choose a Gentle Cleanser
Opt for a hydrating, non-foaming cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for cleansers labeled as “hydrating,” “gentle,” or “moisturizing.” Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are beneficial.
2. Avoid Hot Water
Hot water can strip your skin of moisture. Use lukewarm water to wash your face to help maintain your skin’s natural hydration levels.
3. Limit Cleansing to Twice a Day
Cleansing more than twice a day can dry out your skin. Cleanse in the morning and before bed, and only use water or a gentle toner in between if necessary.
4. Double Cleanse with Care
If you wear makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing at night with a gentle oil-based cleanser followed by a hydrating water-based cleanser. This ensures all residue is removed without over-drying your skin.
5. Use Micellar Water for a Quick Cleanse
Micellar water is a great option for a gentle cleanse, especially in the morning or as a makeup remover. It hydrates while cleansing and doesn’t require rinsing.
6. Pat Dry, Don’t Rub
After cleansing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it. This helps prevent irritation and moisture loss.
7. Incorporate a Hydrating Toner
Follow up cleansing with a hydrating toner containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. This can help replenish moisture immediately after cleansing.
8. Avoid Harsh Exfoliants
Physical exfoliants or harsh chemical exfoliants can worsen dehydration. Use a mild exfoliant no more than once a week, and consider products with lactic acid, which is gentler and also has hydrating properties.
9. Apply Moisturizer on Damp Skin
Lock in hydration by applying a moisturizer right after cleansing while your skin is still slightly damp. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane.
10. Consider Overnight Hydration
Use a richer cream or an overnight hydrating mask to restore moisture while you sleep. Products with occlusive ingredients like shea butter or petrolatum can be very effective.
11. Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Balanced Diet
Drinking plenty of water and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can support your skin’s hydration from within.
12. Use a Humidifier
If you live in a dry climate or spend a lot of time in air-conditioned or heated environments, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and help prevent your skin from drying out.
By incorporating these tips into your skincare routine, you can help manage and improve dehydrated skin, keeping it healthy and hydrated. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, or Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel.
Step 2
Toner
Toner: Use a hydrating toner to balance the pH level of the skin and provide an extra layer of hydration. Look for toners that contain ingredients such as rose water, aloe vera, or chamomile extract. Some recommended toners for dehydrated skin are Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Calming Toner, Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner, or Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner.
Step 3
Serum
Serum: Apply a hydrating serum that contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or vitamin E. These ingredients help to draw moisture to the skin and keep it hydrated. Some recommended serums for dehydrated skin are The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum, or Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
Step 4
Moisturize
Moisturize: Use a moisturizer that is specifically designed for dehydrated skin. Look for products that contain ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. Some recommended moisturizers for dehydrated skin are CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer.
Step 4
Moisturize
Protect: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Look for sunscreens that contain ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide physical protection against the sun. Some recommended sunscreens for dehydrated skin are EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 60, or Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Sunscreen SPF 50.
Remember to also drink plenty of water and avoid hot showers, which can further dehydrate the skin. With a consistent skincare routine and proper hydration, you can help to improve the look and feel of your dehydrated skin.
