During winter, skin often becomes tighter, duller, or flaky. Cold, wind, and heating disrupt the skin's balance, leading to the common confusion between dry skin and dehydrated skin.
Although often used as synonyms, they are not the same, and understanding the difference is key to properly caring for your skin at this time of year.
Dry skin or dehydrated skin?
According to the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV), dehydrated skin is skin that loses water excessively, while dry skin has a lower amount of lipids, which weakens the skin barrier (Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology [AEDV], 2011).
Dehydration can affect any skin type and is usually temporary. Dry skin, on the other hand, is a more persistent condition that requires specific care.
Why skin suffers more in winter
Winter is one of the most aggressive seasons for the skin. Factors such as cold, dry air, indoor heating, and hot showers strip the skin of its natural oils and promote dryness and itching (Mayo Clinic, n.d.).
Common symptoms of dry or dehydrated skin
When skin loses essential water and lipids, signs such as:
-
Tightness and lack of elasticity
-
Dull appearance
-
Itching or feeling of discomfort
-
Mild flaking
As indicated by MedlinePlus, these symptoms are common during winter and can affect both the face and body (MedlinePlus, n.d.).
Basic routine for winter skin care
To relieve dry or dehydrated skin, specialists recommend:
-
Gentle cleansing, without aggressive agents
-
Avoiding very hot water
-
Applying moisturizer while the skin is still damp
-
Maintaining a consistent routine
These measures help strengthen the skin barrier and improve skin comfort (Mayo Clinic, n.d.).
FARMA DORSCH's approach
At FARMA DORSCH, we formulate products designed to respect skin balance and support the skin when it becomes more fragile in winter. Our formulas help maintain hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, and provide comfort even to the most sensitive skin.
References
Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. (2011, August). Hydration or nutrition: What does your skin need? https://www.aedv.es
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Dry skin: Diagnosis and treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org
MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Dry skin (xerosis). U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/spanish