What is skin dehydration?

A dehydrated skin lacks water content in the intercelluar structure of the skin, the fluid between cells. This skin type often appears dry and dull with a rough, crepe like texture. Dehydration can affect all skin types in any age group although it is most commonly seen in dry skin types. If the moisture content is not replenished in the epidermis (upper skin layer) and dermis (middle layer of the skin), dehydration occurs. Dehydrated skin is dependent on the epidermis and dermis as the smallest change in the skin’s water content can cause the skin to become dry and cracked. This can often cause thinning of the skin which can eventually lead to the loss in the skin’s elasticity and radiance. The skin can become taut and itchy with the development of fine lines and wrinkles appearing around the eye and cheek areas.

The success of any skin treatment is dependent on the skin’s condition which should be analyzed prior to commencing any skin therapy. Analysis of the skin can only be assessed after the skin is cleansed of oils, make-up and dust particles and examination using a magnifying glass with white light (mag lamp) or a Wood’s lamp may be necessary. To assess the skin type, factors such as the skin’s moisture level, temperature, texture of the skin and the acid-alkaline balance (pH) are important to consider when categorizing the individual skin type.

Oily skin is the excessive production of oil (sebum) by the oil glands of the skin (sebaceous glands) that gives the skin the oily and shiny texture often associated with teenagers and those suffering with acne vulgaris. Increased oil production is a result of hormones, particularly the androgens (male sex hormones) which is present in both males and females.

What causes oily skin?

At puberty, or during hormonal fluctuations that cause oily skin, the action of these androgens increases the size of the oil glands in the skin (sebaceous glands) as well as causing enlarged pores. This enlarged glands and pores result in more oil being produced as well as more oil being secreted onto the skin. It is often believed that oily skin is a result of external factors but long term oily skin is very much an internal process regulated by the body’s hormones.