Dry Skin vs Dehydrated Skin: What's the Difference?

Not All Dryness Is the Same

Many people confuse dry skin with dehydrated skin, but they're actually quite different conditions that require different approaches.

Dry Skin

• A skin type (genetic)
• Lacks oil/sebum production
• Feels rough, flaky, sometimes itchy
• Needs rich, oil-based moisturisers

Dehydrated Skin

• A skin condition (temporary)
• Lacks water, not oil
• Can affect ANY skin type (even oily!)
• Feels tight, looks dull
• Needs hydrating, water-based products

How to Tell

The easiest test: if your skin feels tight after washing but gets oily by midday, you likely have dehydrated skin, not dry skin.

Our Recommendation

• Dry skin: Try our Macadamia Nourishing Night Cream for deep overnight repair
• Dehydrated skin: Layer our Rosella Hydrating Toner under a light moisturiser for lasting hydration