What’s the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?

Many people assume dry and dehydrated skin are the same, but they’re not. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right skincare and achieving a healthier, more balanced complexion.

Q: Are dry and dehydrated skin the same thing?

A: No. Dry skin is a skin type, while dehydrated skin is a temporary condition.

Dry skin lacks natural oils (sebum).
Dehydrated skin lacks water in the top layer of the skin.

You can have oily skin and still be dehydrated — that’s why it’s important not to confuse the two.

Q: How can I tell if I have dry skin?

Look for signs like:

Flakiness or rough patches
A feeling of tightness, especially after washing
Itchiness or irritation
Dull-looking complexion
Often visible fine lines

Dry skin tends to be consistent year-round and can be genetic. It needs emollients and oils to restore the skin barrier.

Q: What about dehydrated skin? What are the signs?

Dehydrated skin may show:

Dullness and uneven texture
More noticeable lines and shadows
Tightness despite feeling oily
Breakouts or irritation due to skin imbalance

Dehydrated skin is usually caused by lifestyle, weather, skincare products, or not drinking enough water.

Q: What causes each one?

Type	Main Cause	Contributing Factors
Dry Skin	Lack of oil	Genetics, ageing, harsh soaps, low humidity
Dehydrated Skin	Lack of water	Heat, caffeine, alcohol, air-conditioning, over-cleansing

Q: How can I treat dry skin?

Use moisturisers rich in:

Plant oils (jojoba, avocado, almond)
Butters (shea, cocoa)
Ceramides and fatty acids

Satthwa’s natural oils and face creams help nourish and seal in moisture for dry skin types.

Q: How do I treat dehydrated skin?

Hydrate your skin with:

Hyaluronic acid serums
Aloe vera or glycerin-based gels
Light moisturisers that include humectants

And don’t forget internal hydration — drink water and eat water-rich foods like fruits and leafy greens.

Q: Can I have both dry and dehydrated skin?

Yes. Many people have dry-dehydrated or oily-dehydrated skin. The key is to balance oil and water — use hydrating serums followed by moisturisers that support your skin’s barrier.