· By Sara M, Founder
Hydrate Your Skin: Your Ultimate Guide to The Best Skincare Routine for Dehydrated Skin
Cracks, rough skin, and sensations of tightness or itchiness can get really uncomfortable. To give ways to solve this problem and find the best skincare routine for dehydrated skin, it is important to know what contributes to the problem.
Dehydration, which implies that the body has not had enough water, is often the cause of this skin condition. So, get that water intake, please. Dry skin is characterized by its loss of water and oils, when it feels rough and tight, and has a pale and scaly appearance. Yes, sometimes apart from water, skin care is necessary to rebuild the skin barrier, repair the skin, and restore the skin’s natural glow and this requires taking time to develop the right skin care routine for dry skin.
In this article, you will be able to get all the information that is necessary to know regarding the proper management of dry skin. Let’s get into it!
Understanding the Causes of Dehydrated Skin
When the skin is dehydrated, the complexion looks dull and has a rough skin texture becoming more dry and scaly. As hydration genuinely originates from the dermis, namely the water reservoir, a topical emollient cannot satiate lifelong skin dryness adequately.
There is a reason as to why the skin cannot retain the required moisture for it to be nourished hence it is only after identifying this reason that one can look into nourishing the skin.
Environmental Factors
External temperature conditions in winter such as cold and dry climates also enhance the increased rate of transepidermal water loss. Strong winds can also blow away the skin’s hydrolipid layer, which is a significant barrier to environmental influences. UV radiation causes the formation of free radicals when it warms the skin and increases rates of evaporation of water. In fact, even the smallest additives in hard tap water can rub and chafe as if on sunburned skin, and dry out as well.
Lifestyle Choices
Other factors related to lifestyle also hinder water delivery to the skin through other physiological functions. Excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol are diuretics that move the necessary fluid out of the cells through the kidneys. Lack of water also predisposes the body to admit toxins and excess sodium in the body as it acts as a natural solvent. A diet that lacks fruits, and vegetables rich in phytonutrients, offers very minimal nutrition to the human body. Choosing to scrub with powerful soaps or chemical compounds eliminates the lipid layer required to regulate moisture levels.
Underlying Health Issue
Through the process of aging naturally, the skin’s cell turnover is often reduced and this affects its ability to hold water. Conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and diabetes are some of the conditions that have the natural effects of robbing skin of moisture. Medications, hormonal fluctuations, and illnesses also obstruct the flow of blood and proteins that constitute hydration preservation.
Signs of Dehydrated Skin
Tightness or Discomfort
Other early warning signals that one’s skin is already dried up include a drawstring sensation that is commonly felt around the cheeks, eyes, and mouth area. Dehydration of skin tissue lowers the water content of the skin cells and therefore the skin becomes tighter when it pulls in. It may also be characterized by a feeling of tightness in the skin and may even generate stinging itching, or skin sensitivity. It might be a little scaly or leathery or feel as if it has contracted, or become tight as well. Skin hydration, as mentioned previously, has its optimum level in the first 24 years of a person’s life, and the population between 25-40 years is a high-risk group for dehydrated skin. Tightness, dryness, or inability to ‘breathe’ can be addressed through proper cleansing and moisturizing of the skin as well as balancing the body’s water intake.
Dullness
Healthy skin means the skin is well-rounded, fresh, and moist, and this will make it glow. But with inadequate fluids, the skin begins to appear dry, dull, and flat and lacks its natural healthy glow. In dehydrated skin the skin loses its glow and has an ability to reflect light in a far-from-perfect way, appearing to be rather grayish. The outer layer of our skin, Stratum corneum, begins to appear dull as if it is shedding, and simply unwell if it is not adequately moisturized. Drinking more water and consuming more fruits and vegetables, especially those with high water content, such as watermelon, should be added to the regimen along with hyaluronic acid serums and hydrating face masks.
Fine Lines or Wrinkles
Skin that lacks water will also wrinkle easily since the water content within the skin cells decreases, making it easy for wrinkles to penetrate through the skin's surface. Inadequate amounts of fluids cause skin cells to shrink, which results in skin wrinkling. These signs are particularly visible in areas with less fatty tissue such as the eyes and lips where dehydration lines appear most prominently. While exfoliants like retinol can, for example, smooth out wrinkles and make them less visible because the skin is plumper in the short term, the real issue here is that the skin is dehydrated. This may require sleeping more often, reducing stress, and also changing your skincare routine to include products that enhance skin barrier function such as emollient creams.
Chronic dryness diminishes skin’s buoyancy over time and can contribute to further signs of aging. By paying attention to the signals of skin-tightness, a decrease in skin-sensitiveness, and the appearance of fine lines it is possible to feed your skin with moisture-personal-care and strengthen its barrier with the help of proper ingredients.
Best Morning Skincare Routine for Dehydrated Skin
Start your day by giving dry skin the care it needs to face daily elements. A morning skincare routine for dehydrated skin should feature hydrating and deeply nourishing ingredients.
Step 1: Begin with a Gentle Cleanser
Dry and dehydrated skin types should incorporate a gentle facial cleanser that won't over-strip the skin of its oils or leave the face feeling tight.
Step 2: Apply a Hydrating Serum
To rebalance dry skin types, use a serum that provides deeper hydration. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid are key. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts and retains water. The Svensskincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin C and E is an excellent choice, formulated to create instantly softer, smoother skin.
Moisturize with SPF Protection
Finish your morning skincare routine with a moisturizer that includes SPF protection. Sun exposure can exacerbate dry skin symptoms, so protecting your skin is crucial.
Nighttime Best Skincare Routine for Dehydrated Skin
After a day of exposure to environmental elements, an evening skincare routine can rebalance your skin. Here’s how to care for your skin at night.
1. Cleanse Your Face Thoroughly
Wipe away all the build-ups collected throughout the day. You can use any Cream-to-Foam Cleanser. It is perfect for this step, effectively cleansing the skin while providing hydration.
2. Reapply the Hydrating Serum
Using a serum formulated specifically for dry skin, like the Hyaluronic Serum, is essential. This serum boosts the natural supply of humectants in the skin, making it perfect for people with dry to very dry skin.
3. Restore Hydration with a Night Moisturizer
An evening moisturizer can strengthen your skin’s barrier and rebalance it after a day’s activities. Moisturizing Lotion offers deep hydration that helps balance a dry complexion.
4. Use an Eye Cream
Hydrating eye creams can reduce dark circles and puffiness, brightening the entire eye area.
Your Solution to the Best Skincare Routine for Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin can be a challenge, but with the right skincare routine, you can achieve a hydrated and glowing complexion. Understanding the causes of dryness and following a consistent skincare routine for dry skin will make a significant difference. Incorporate gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, and moisturizers with SPF protection during the day, and focus on thorough cleansing, hydration, and specific treatments at night.
Remember, consistency is key. Stick to your routine and give your skin the time it needs to adjust and show improvement. For more personalized skincare advice, consider booking a consultation with one of our experts who can help you refine your regimen and choose the best products for your skin type.
Here's to healthier, hydrated skin!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular body lotion on my face?
No, it is not recommended to use regular body lotion on your face. Facial skin is more delicate and requires different formulations for optimal hydration and nourishment. Using a facial moisturizer specifically formulated for your skin type will provide better results.
How often should I exfoliate dehydrated skin?
It is best to limit exfoliation to 1-2 times per week for dehydrated skin, as over-exfoliating can cause further dryness and irritation. Consult with a skincare professional or follow the instructions on your exfoliating product for personalized recommendations.
Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to help with my dehydrated skin?
Yes, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding harsh weather conditions, and using a humidifier in dry environments can all contribute to healthier, hydrated skin. Remember that skincare is not just about what you put on your skin but also how you take care of your body overall.