Dry Skin Vs Dehydrated Skin: Expert Explains The Winter Difference

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With the onset of winter and lower humidity levels, almost everyone begins to notice changes in their skin. However, not all winter skin concerns are the same. In dermatology, it is often wrongly assumed that dry skin should always be treated with heavy oils, which can frequently lead to clogged pores or dull-looking skin. To care for your skin properly this season, the first step is understanding whether your skin is thirsty or hungry, so you can nourish it with the right kind of care.

We spoke to Dr Nirupama Parwanda, Dermatologist and Founder of Zolie Skin Clinic, who explained the difference between dry and dehydrated skin.

Dry Skin: The absence of oil (The Skin Type)

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Having dry skin is a biological type of skin, just as other types, such as being oily or having combination skin. In case of a dry skin type, the sebaceous glands are not active enough by their nature (they do not produce sufficient sebum (natural oils). This is quite a crude oil since it serves as a sort of glue that holds the cells of your skin together and forms a protective shield. In the absence of this oil, your skin barrier is leaky.

"Dry skin is characterised by a rough or sandpaper feel, flaking is visible, and matte skin with virtually invisible pores. Due to the low strength of the barrier, dry skin is more sensitive and can easily turn red or experience an eczema outbreak in the winter. To control this, the skin requires emollients and ceramides-substances that physically restore those lipids that are lost and make the structure of the barrier more sound and robust," explained Dr Parwanda.

Dehydrated Skin: Water Deprivation (The Skin Condition)

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"In comparison with dry skin, dehydration is a short-term phenomenon that results from external factors, such as cold winds, indoor heating, and hot showers. It may occur to any person, including those with greasy skin or an acne-prone face. Dehydration is the insufficiency of water as a content of the stratum corneum, or the uppermost layer of the skin," said Dr Parwanda.

In the event of skin dehydration, it lacks bounce. You may find that you have dull skin, that your skin tightens after a bath, and that you have a pattern of tiny and triangular fine lines on your face when smiling.

"An archetype of dehydration is the oily skin that is tight; the body might, in fact, be overproducing oil to replace the absence of water, creating a confusing combination of shine and painfulness. To correct this, you should use humectants such as hyaluronic acid or glycerine, as they act like sponges to absorb water back to the cells," added Dr Parwanda.

The Winter Strategy

Dr Parwanda concluded, "It is important to differentiate the two. When you put on a thick oil-based balm to dry skin without any water, it is only sealing off the dryness. On the other hand, using a light water-based serum to allow the skin to dry naturally will not be a great thing to go through on a cold day in December."

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.