How to Identify and Recognize Dehydrated Skin?

Dehydrated skin is a frequently underestimated skin imbalance. Unlike dry skin, which lacks lipids, dehydrated skin suffers from a lack of water, which is essential for the proper functioning of the skin barrier. This dehydration can affect all skin types, including oily skin. It reveals itself through specific signs: sensations of discomfort, loss of suppleness and a dull, lacklustre complexion. But how can dehydrated skin be identified, and above all, which treatments, products and skincare routines should be adopted to restore its softness and radiance?

Dry skin or dehydrated skin: how can you tell the difference?

Understanding the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin is essential to choosing the right products and adapting your skincare routine. Dry skin is a permanent skin type, genetically determined, characterised by a lack of lipids. Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a temporary condition that affects the skin’s water content, regardless of skin type or age.

The signs of dehydrated skin are varied: tightness, a dull complexion, loss of elasticity, and sometimes the appearance of dehydration lines, particularly on the face. This lack of moisture makes the skin more reactive, more vulnerable and visibly fatigued. It can create a sensation of thirst, as if the skin were calling out for deep hydration.

What causes skin dehydration?

Many factors can lead to skin dehydration: extreme weather conditions, pollution, heating, air conditioning, stress, an unbalanced diet, or the use of unsuitable products. Even a cream that is too rich or too light can disrupt the skin’s natural moisture balance.

A lack of water in the skin can also result from an overly aggressive skincare routine, particularly when it includes harsh cleansers or overly frequent exfoliation. The hydrolipidic film weakens, transepidermal water loss increases, and signs of dehydration begin to appear. It is therefore essential to choose products specifically formulated to restore hydration both on the surface and deep within the skin.

How should you respond to dehydrated skin?

The priority is clear: restore optimal skin hydration. This requires a targeted skincare routine built around gentle products rich in hydrating actives. Facial cleansing should be carried out with a non-aggressive product to preserve the hydrolipidic film. Next, the use of a high-performance serum becomes essential: its lightweight texture penetrates easily, replenishing dehydrated skin with water.

For example, the [Hydra+] Resource Serum from the OCEAN HYDRA range is an ideal choice. It acts as a true hydration booster thanks to a powerful duo of actives: a red algae complex combined with remineralising seawater, and HPM hyaluronic acid. This serum provides immediate hydration, restores the skin barrier, and helps the skin regain comfort, elasticity and radiance.

After applying the serum, a cream is essential to seal in moisture and protect the skin from external aggressors. The [Nutri+] Resource Cream delivers long-lasting hydration and strengthens the resistance of dehydrated skin. It works deep within the skin to nourish and soothe tightness caused by dehydration.

Which products should you choose for an anti-dehydration face and body routine?

A well-designed skincare routine is key to combating skin dehydration. It is important to use suitable products from the cleansing step onwards, alternating lightweight and richer textures according to the skin’s needs. For the face, the [Aqua] Resource Jelly, also from the OCEAN HYDRA range, instantly quenches the skin’s thirst while reinforcing its protective barrier. This light formula is perfect in the morning to awaken the skin, or as a make-up base.

Once or twice a week, an intensive treatment such as the [Comforting] Resource Mask helps replenish the skin’s water reserves. It envelops the face in a nourishing, hydrating veil, visibly reducing signs of dehydration.

Discover within the OCEAN SPA range our expert hydrating body treatments designed for dehydrated skin. The [Softening] Body Oil intensely nourishes while promoting improved skin hydration thanks to laminaria algae and jojoba oil. This sensorial oil is ideal for massage after a shower or bath, leaving the skin soft, supple and radiant.

To complement this ritual, the [Nourishing] Body Cream hydrates dry areas of the body (legs, arms, elbows) while reinforcing the skin barrier thanks to the Hydra-Skin active. And to care for the hands, often prone to pronounced dehydration, the [Multi-Protection] Hand Cream hydrates, protects and repairs without leaving a greasy finish.

Even in the shower, hydration can be preserved by choosing a caring cleanser such as the [Relaxing] Shower Gel. It gently cleanses the skin while maintaining its hydration levels, preventing tightness from the very first moments of the day.

A complete routine for rehydrated, radiant skin

In summary, how should dehydrated skin be cared for? By listening to its signals, understanding its specific needs, and adopting a coherent skincare routine. Gentle cleansers, concentrated serums, protective creams and comforting masks all play a role in restoring skin hydration. Thanks to effective pairings such as serum + cream, or oil + milky cream, it is possible to sustainably rebalance the skin’s moisture levels.

With the right combination of treatments, dehydrated skin can fully regain its vitality. Listen to it, hydrate it, pamper it with tailored products, and it will reward you with renewed radiance and a supple, smooth and comfortable texture.