First things first: your skin is just as unique as you are! So understanding your skin type and all its layers is the key to achieving your healthiest, most radiant complexion. In this monthly series, “What’s My Skin Type?”, we’ll be exploring all the different skin types, guiding you through their needs and offering the most amazing(y) skincare solutions to help you build the best, most effective routine for you & your skin ♡

This month, we’re exploring Dehydrated Skin – a condition often confused with dry skin, but very different in its root cause and treatment. If your skin feels tight, looks dull, or you notice fine lines and occasional breakouts despite using moisturizers, dehydration may be the culprit. In this guide, we’ll break down what dehydrated skin really is, what causes it, and how to replenish its hydration effectively.

What Defines Dehydrated Skin?

Unlike dry skin, which lacks oil, dehydrated skin lacks water. It’s not a skin type, but a temporary condition that can affect any skin type – dry, oily, or combination. Dehydrated skin often feels tight, appears dull, and can be prone to congestion as the skin overproduces oil to compensate for water loss.

Key Signs of Dehydrated Skin:

• Tightness, especially after cleansing
• Dull or tired-looking complexion
• Fine lines and crepey texture
• Breakouts and congestion
• Oily skin that still feels dry or flaky

What Causes Dehydrated Skin?

Dehydrated skin is often a result of external or lifestyle factors that impair the skin’s ability to retain water:

• Weather & Environment – Cold, dry air or too much sun exposure can strip moisture.
• Harsh Skincare Products – Overuse of exfoliants, alcohol-based toners, or strong cleansers can compromise the moisture barrier.
• Not Enough Water Intake – Dehydration from within can show up on the skin.
• Overwashing or Hot Showers – These can remove essential moisture from the skin.
• Indoor Heating or Air Conditioning – These can reduce ambient humidity, leading to water loss through the skin.

How to Care for Dehydrated Skin: The Right Skincare Routine

The key to managing dehydrated skin is reintroducing water through hydrating ingredients and locking it in with the right barrier support. Layering lightweight, water-rich products with barrier-repairing moisturizers can make a significant difference.

Step 1: Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

Pai Skincare – Middlemist Seven- Camellia & Rose Gentle Cream Cleanser (50ml or 150ml)

Opt for a creamy or gel-based cleanser that cleans without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.

Step 2: Hydrating Toner or Essence

NINI Organics – RAIN Hydrating Essence

OR

M Picaut – Aquamarine Bliss Treatment Toner

Look for products with humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera to pull water into the skin.

Step 3: Water-Based Serum

Mádara Cosmetics – AGE PRO Hydra Firm Hyaluron Gel

A lightweight serum with hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, or panthenol will deliver deep hydration to thirsty skin.

Step 4: Barrier-Repair Moisturizer

QUINQUE Skincare – Anti-Pollution Moisturizing Cream

Lock in the hydration with a nourishing cream containing ceramides, squalane, or omega fatty acids to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier.

Step 5: Hydrating Sunscreen

FYI Cosmetics Super Smooth Daily Moisturizer SPF30

Choose a sunscreen that also offers hydrating ingredients to keep your skin protected and moisturized throughout the day.

A Few Last Words…

Dehydrated skin can affect anyone, regardless of skin type. The good news? With the right care, hydration can be restored, revealing a plumper, smoother, and healthier-looking complexion. Focus on gentle, water-rich formulas and avoid anything that strips your skin.

Stay tuned for next month’s article, where we’ll be talking about Mature Skin – and how to support your skin as it changes with time. Until then, explore amazingy.com for more organic, natural & clean skincare tailored to your skin’s changing needs ♡

Cover by Marina Leonova on Pexels