Dehydrated skin is caused by a lack of water, not a lack of oil — and it can happen to any skin type, including oily or combination. The most common causes are environmental, lifestyle‑related or linked to your skincare routine.
Environmental factors are the biggest culprits. Cold weather, indoor heating, dry air and wind all pull moisture out of the skin. Even hot showers can strip water from the surface, leaving your complexion tight and papery.
Lifestyle habits also play a role. Not drinking enough water, high caffeine intake, stress and lack of sleep can all reduce the skin’s ability to hold moisture. Air travel is another major trigger — cabin air is extremely dry, which is why skin often feels tight after a flight.
Skincare routines can un-intentionally cause dehydration. Over‑cleansing, harsh exfoliants, strong acne treatments or skipping moisturizers can weaken the barrier, making it harder for the skin to retain water. Even oily skin can become dehydrated if the barrier is compromised — it may produce more oil to compensate, creating shine on the surface but dryness underneath.
Makeup can contribute too. Long‑wear formulas, mattifying powders, and alcohol‑based products can pull moisture from the skin throughout the day.
In short: dehydrated skin happens when the skin loses water faster than it can replace it. Replenishing hydration and protecting the barrier are the keys to restoring a plump, comfortable, healthy complexion.
I’m Stacey Hobbs, thanks for reading Face by Stace! Until next time.
do you feel fabulous today?
