Autumn and winter bring on colder temperatures, which can often lead to dry skin. But here's the big question: is your skin actually dry? Or, is it just dehydrated?

There is a difference and it can sometimes be confusing. Let's break it down. 

How to know if you have dry skin

Dry skin lacks oil-producing glands. It’s the type of skin you were born with and cannot be changed no matter how much water you drink. No not even drenching your face will change that. The layers of the skin can look rough, leather-like, and flaky — not just on your face, but all over your body.  

What can you do for dry skin?

Oils, both orally and topically are essential to soothe dry skin. For those with dry skin, the outer layer (stratum corneum) lacks the ability to produce enough oil for this skin to remain supple and elastic. 
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Oral supplements* can be helpful. These can include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids like fish oils or plant-based options like chia seed
• Vitamin K (helps stretch marks and stubborn dark circles)
• Vitamin C (also found naturally found in the skin)
• Vitamin E 

*Please consult your physician before taking any new supplements.

What products are best for dry skin?

• Soap-free cleansers
• Oil-based serums
• Pack on the Hyaluronic Acid serums, take some supplements, and get your beauty sleep.⁣

It's also important to keep up your daily water intake to a minimum of ten 8oz glasses per day — and get your beauty sleep!

How to know if your skin is dehydrated

Dehydrated skin lacks water. The surface cells are deflated and no longer plump, perhaps giving your skin a dull, tired look. Your skin doesn’t seem flaky but just lacks luster. Dehydrated skin can be experienced by all skin types — including oily skin.

There are times when skin's oiliness is exacerbated by dehydration, so oil glands will over-produce. This is your skin's way to ensure hydration, but it can cause breakouts. (And no one wants that.)

What can you do to rehydrate your skin?⁣

The good news is that dehydrated skin is temporary. (Yay!) You'll want to drink more water — your entire body will thank you for this, not just your skin. Product-wise, use a good cleanser, pack on your Hyaluronic Acid serum (and moisturize!), and eat water-rich foods like cucumber, broth, and spinach.

Notice we said "TYPE". The reality is that skin has both a type and a behaviour. The skin "type" you have is what you were born with. Your skin's behaviour is a whole other beast that we're going to tackle in another post. 

We hope this has been a helpful blog post for you! Drop us a comment on what's been your best ritual to combat dryness and dehydration.