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Did you know there is a difference between skin that is dry and skin that is dehydrated? Well, knowing the difference could unlock your best complexion yet.

If you've ever wondered why you can be dealing with dry-feeling skin, shine and breakouts all at the same time, it could be that your skin is actually dehydrated and not dry at all. Knowing what's going on with your skin is important when you're shopping for skincare, it empowers you to make the best decision for your complexion (and your wallet!). One of the worst things is when you buy a skincare product and quickly realise it's not right for your skin type or condition. 

To decipher whether your complexion is dry, dehydrated or both, keep reading our guide to the difference between dry and dehydrated skin...

What Is Dry Skin?

Dry skin is a skin type that you are born with. Dry skin is lacking in oil and lipids, and people with dry skin tend to be prone to conditions like eczema or psoriasis. 

Do I Have Dry Skin?

You have dry skin if you feel compelled to moisturiser your body from head to toe every day and if you don't it looks and feels scaly and dry.

When you have dry skin, your skin barrier can easily become red, itchy and irritated. Avoiding harsh detergents and too hot water when showering, bathing or washing your face is key. 

If you have dry skin oil-rich products are your friend!

Josh Rosebrook Herbal Infusion Oil, €49

What Is Dehydrated Skin?

Dehydrated skin is a condition, rather than a skin type that you are born with. It's where you are lacking water (rather than oil) in the upper layers of the skin. Every skin type: normal, oily/combination, sensitive and dry can become dehydrated. 

Do I Have Dehydrated Skin? 

If you have normal skin and it's dehydrated it may feel tight or "dry". Oily/combination skin will likely be oilier and you could be suffering from more breakouts, as the skin is trying hard to rehydrate itself. Dehydrated sensitive skin will feel tight, more irritated or red than usual, while dry skin that's dehydrated will likely suffer from a severe feeling of dryness, flaking and cracking, and the dehydration could trigger conditions like eczema or itching. 

If you have dehydrated skin you should factor a hydrating product into your routine, so something containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin, both are humectants which means they draw water into the skin from outside to quench your complexion's thirst.

Patchology Hydrate 5 Minute FlashMasque, €6

Wishful Thirst Trap Juice Serum, €46

Understanding the difference between dry and dehydrated skin is not only key to a happy, less breakout-prone complexion but get your "canvas" in tip-top condition and any makeup you apply will look even better.

 This is what order to apply your skincare for the best results.