Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin: How Do They Differ?

Though the terms "dry" and "dehydrated" are often used interchangeably, they’re not the same. Dry skin is a skin type characterized by a chronic underproduction of sebum, or oil. It’s usually persistent and may be accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms like itching or tightness. The severity of these symptoms can be affected by environmental factors, like weather, and are often worse in the winter.

Dehydrated skin, meanwhile, refers to the amount of water in the skin. Healthy skin contains around 30% water, which is essential for maintaining the skin’s structure, strength, and resiliency. When the skin loses too much water, it becomes dehydrated. The symptoms of dehydrated and dry skin are often similar and may include roughness or a loss of elasticity. However, while dry skin is a specific skin type, dehydrated skin can affect anyone—even those with naturally oily skin. That said, those with dry skin types may be more likely to also have dehydrated skin, as the skin’s natural oils play an important role in retaining water and minimizing water loss.

What Causes Dry Skin?

As stated above, dry skin results from a lack of oil in the skin. This is often due to genetics but can be worsened by internal and external factors. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can exacerbate dryness. Similarly, harsh skincare products that strip the skin can remove too much oil, leading to dry skin. Other factors that may contribute to dryness include medical conditions, lifestyle, hormones, and the natural aging process.

Managing dry skin requires minimizing exposure to environmental influences, like hot water, and restoring the skin’s surface lipids. You can do this with moisturizers, particularly emollients (which typically contain oils to smooth and soften the skin) and occlusives (which create a barrier to prevent water loss).

For daily management of dryness, we recommend reaching for a lightweight yet nourishing moisturizer, like our cult-classic Ultra Facial Cream. This best-selling formula stars squalane, an non-comedogenic emollient derived from olives. Squalane is structurally very similar to sebum and boasts antibacterial properties, making it ideal for those prone to clogged pores or other blemishes. In our formula, squalane combines with rich avocado oil and glacial glycoprotein to help soften the skin. The unique moisturizer provides non-greasy 24-hour hydration, more than doubling hydration in the skin’s driest areas. It’s suitable for all skin types and can be used daily for smoother, visibly healthier skin.

What Causes Dehydrated Skin?

Dehydrated skin results from excessive water loss. This can be due to a damaged skin barrier, a lack of water in the diet, or extreme weather conditions (cold, arid climates, in particular, are associated with dehydration). One of the most obvious signs of dehydration is a lack of elasticity in the skin: You’ll notice more prominent fine lines and wrinkles, and skin may appear dull or begin to sag.

As such, skin hydration is often mistaken for dryness or premature aging. According to Kiehl’s consulting esthetician Shamara Bondaroff, "A lot of the time, fine lines [aren’t due to] premature aging—it’s actually dehydration." She advises those with dehydrated skin to follow healthy habits, like drinking water and getting sleep, which can help minimize water loss and strengthen the skin.

To minimize the appearance of dehydration-related skin concerns (such as fine lines or wrinkles), reach for hydrating skincare products, like Hydro-Plumping Re-Texturizing Serum Concentrate. This intensely moisturizing formula contains 15% glycerin to revive dull, tired skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. You can use this plumping serum daily to help smooth the skin and promote a more hydrated, healthy appearance.

How Do You Care For Dry and Dehydrated Skin?

Dryness and dehydration can both be managed with healthy skincare habits and a proper skincare routine. Keep reading for four expert-approved tips for combating dryness and dehydration for smoother, more radiant-looking skin.