Dehydrated Oily Skin: Causes and Care
Shiny by midday, yet tight and uncomfortable after cleansing? Flaky patches next to blackheads? Your skin may be both oily and dehydrated. It sounds contradictory, but it is one of the most common skin concerns, and one of the most misunderstood.
Oily and dehydrated: what is the difference?
Oily describes a skin type: your sebaceous glands produce a lot of sebum (oil). Dehydrated describes a temporary condition: your skin lacks water. Any skin type can become dehydrated, including oily skin. When this happens, the skin barrier is weakened, water escapes more easily, and the skin often reacts by producing even more oil.
Signs your oily skin is dehydrated
- A feeling of tightness after washing your face
- Shine and enlarged pores, but also dull, rough areas
- Fine lines that look more visible by the end of the day
- Make-up that clings to dry patches
- Skin that stings or turns red when you apply products
What causes it?
- Over-cleansing with harsh, foaming or alcohol-based products
- Skipping moisturiser out of fear of looking greasier
- Drying acne treatments used too often or all at once
- Environment: cold weather, wind, central heating and air conditioning
- Lifestyle: not drinking enough water, alcohol, lack of sleep
How to restore the balance
- Switch to a gentle cleanser. Your skin should feel clean but comfortable, never squeaky.
- Use a soothing toner such as the Anti-Acne Purifying Lotion to remove residue and prepare the skin for the next steps.
- Never skip moisturiser. Choose a light, non-comedogenic texture that hydrates and controls shine. The Anti-Acne Skin Balance Cream does both: it moisturises and mattifies.
- Repair the barrier when it is irritated. If your skin is reactive, for example during a drying treatment, a richer repairing cream like the Anti-Acne Repairing Cream helps restore comfort.
- Introduce actives gradually, one at a time, rather than layering several strong products.
Skinormil tip: apply your moisturiser on slightly damp skin, within a minute of cleansing or toning. It helps lock in water.
With the right balance, many people find that their skin becomes less oily over time, simply because it no longer needs to overcompensate.
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