Did you know that your skin could be dehydrated even if you'd classify your skin type as oily? Yep. Basically, dehydration is a skin condition that doesn't discriminate based on skin type. And the only way to quench it is with the appropriate products. But how do you know if your skin is dehydrated? Easy. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, from Vibrant Dermatology in Wellesley, MA, gives us the scoop.
She says, "Dehydrated skin refers to a skin state where the top layer of the skin has less water content than it should. Anyone can experience dehydrated skin—even those with an oily skin type. Dehydrated skin looks dull, feels tight and shows accelerated signs of aging such as an increased number of fine lines and wrinkles.”
If you can't immediately tell if your skin is dehydrated based on Dr. Ip's cues, try the pinch test. Lightly pinch some skin on the back of your hand and pull it up about one centimeter before letting it go. If you're dehydrated, your skin will take a few seconds to go back down. If you aren't dehydrated, your skin will spring back to its regular position almost immediately.
"If you suffer from dehydrated skin, you want to opt for products that contain humectants. Humectants help to reduce water loss from the skin. Examples include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea and aloe vera,” explains Dr. Ip. Ready to banish that dehydrated skin for good? Here are five products to get you started.
