As temperatures drop, many of us experience changes in our skin, feeling dryness or tightness that can be hard to resolve. But there’s a key difference between dry and dehydrated skin, and understanding which one you’re experiencing can help you treat it effectively for glowing, healthy skin this winter. Here’s a breakdown of the differences, how to identify your skin type, and what you can do to treat both dry and dehydrated skin.

Dry Skin vs. Dehydrated Skin: What’s the Difference?

• Dry Skin: Dry skin is a skin type, often determined by genetics. It results from a lack of natural oils or lipids in the skin and may appear flaky, rough, or dull. Dry skin typically requires a more oil-based approach to add that necessary moisture back to the skin.
• Dehydrated Skin: Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a skin condition, not a type, meaning it can affect any skin type, including oily and combination skin. It occurs when the skin lacks water, not oil. Dehydrated skin may feel tight, appear dull, and show fine lines more prominently.

How to Tell if You Have Dry or Dehydrated Skin

1. Check for Roughness or Flakiness: If your skin feels rough and flaky, it’s likely dry. Dry skin can also feel irritated and even itchy due to its lack of moisture barrier.
2. Fine Lines and Tightness: If your skin feels tight but not flaky, and you notice more pronounced fine lines, you may be experiencing dehydration.
3. Pinch Test: Gently pinch the skin on the back of your hand or cheek. If it wrinkles easily without bouncing back, your skin may be dehydrated.

Tips for Treating Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated skin needs a focus on water retention. Here are some steps to help you bring hydration back:

1. Hydrate with Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid attracts and holds water in the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump. We recommend the BRAND NEW collection from G.M. Collin’s Hyaluronic Filler Collection, which contains hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and restore comfort to thirsty skin. There are three incredible products in this collection: Hyaluronic Filler Cream, Hyaluronic Filler Eye Contour, and Hyaluronic Filler Serum.
2. Drink Water: Keeping hydrated from the inside out is essential. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day to support overall skin health.
3. Monthly Facials with a Boost of Hydration: Scheduling a monthly facial not only gives you a relaxing, spa-like experience, but it also supports optimal skin hydration. Pear Beauty Spa’s Algo Mask Add-On is a perfect choice to add on to your favourite facial to soothe and deeply hydrate your skin—ideal for combatting the effects of cold, dry weather.

Tips for Treating Dry Skin

Dry skin needs more moisture and lipid-replenishing products to keep it comfortable and soft.

1. Add Ceramides to Your Routine: Ceramides are lipids found naturally in the skin barrier, essential for locking in moisture. The Ceramide Comfort Serum from G.M. Collin is specially formulated to replenish and reinforce your skin’s barrier, preventing moisture loss, and your skin feels like silk after applying it.
2. Use Rich Creams and Moisturizers: Opt for G.M. Collin’s Essential Infusion Dry Oil, which provides deep nourishment and supports your skin’s moisture levels throughout the day.
3. Regular Facials for Deep Moisture: Monthly facials at Pear Beauty Spa help to nourish dry skin at a deeper level. With each facial, you’ll receive a blend of hydrating and soothing treatments that prevent winter dryness from taking a toll on your skin. Book yours today and don’t forget to add on the intensely hydrating and soothing Algo Mask.

Discover Your Best Winter Skin Routine at Pear Beauty Spa

If you’re experiencing dry or dehydrated skin, we’re here to help. From G.M. Collin products featuring hyaluronic acid and ceramides to our deeply nourishing facials, Pear Beauty Spa has everything you need for soft, glowing skin all winter long. Book your appointment or shop these hydrating skincare essentials today at pearbeauty.ca.