As we transition out of Winter into Spring, the weather changes and affects our skin. The heavy snow and start of rain can leave a flaky dry feeling to skin. The cold air and harsh conditions (combined with the repeated use of heating units) leave skin dry and dehydrated.
At The Euro Institute we want our students to work with clients to help address their skin care needs and goals. Part of that is the extensive curriculum we offer giving insight and real world experience on particulars in the skin. One of them is the contrast we learn between Dry and Dehydrated.
We hear these terms used interchangeably, but there is a big difference between dry and dehydrated. We can tell them apart by:
* DEHYDRATED – dehydrated skin is “ water lacking” – this means that there is not enough water in the skin
* DRY - dry skin is “oil lacking” – this means that there is lack of oil in the skin
You can have one or both or a combination. It is also important to note, when people talk about dehydrated skin they are often referencing surface dehydration. At the Euro, we take time to explain and explore all variances of dehydration, but for now we will focus on that surface dehydration.
So, how do we address the differences? First and foremost, receiving a facial by a professional allows your skin to be assessed and addressed properly. Once assessed, your esthetician can look into the reasons your skin may be flaking or not producing enough oil to protect it.
Once Assessed…How to Address:
Dehydration
Dehydration is not a skin type, but rather a condition that can change. For example, surface dehydration can occur from internal dehydration, not using the right products or neglecting the skin, medication or illness, or even extremes in diet. Helping someone make a small change during a dehydrated period can help their skin immensely.
Dehydrated skin is sometimes identified by redness, scaling, and flakiness. We can help dehydrated skin by adding in products that contain natural humectants (ingredients that pull hydration from the environment to the skin’s surface). At the Euro Institute we carry many products that contain all natural humectants.
Dry
Dry is also a condition. If you are only occasionally dry or have not grown up lacking oil, you have a condition of dryness and not necessarily a skin type. Dry skin is often the result of severe weather conditions like wind and snow.
Dry skin is sometimes identified by tightness and flaky feeling on top of the skin. It literally feels dry to the touch. This skin needs protection and oil to be brought back to that surface. We want to add oil in naturally through healing products like our Rosehip Seed Oil serum.
Have you experienced Dry or Dehydrated skin? If so, tell us about it. We would love to hear about your experiences. Or better yet – come see one of our talented student estheticians and learn which products can help you!