Photo courtesy ndhealthfacts.org
If you read back through some of my earlier posts, I don't really believe in a skin type. Your skin is generally a reflection of what's going on inside the body and you have to figure out how to balance out the problem at its source. I didn't invent this notion. The Chinese have believed this for 1000's of years.
There is HUGE confusion between dry skin and dehydrated skin. Dry skin is a lack of oils or essential fats. Each cell has a lipid or fat protection that becomes compromised if there is a lack of essential oils or fats. Adding oil to your skin is not going to fix this problem. Dry skin is generally an internal problem. Lack of oils can effect your hormones, organs and just about any tissue in the body. Eating a diet rich in essential fats and staying away from sugars and other toxic garbage that break down the cell will insure creamy, dreamy skin and a well oiled machine (your body and mind) for years to come. I personally take New Chapter's Wholemega because it includes a cold-pressed version of all of the fats I could possibly need if I don't get them from my fish, avocados, flax seed oil, etc. By the way a lack of oil can also lead to eczema or psoriasis especially if you're under stress!
Dehydrated skin is skin that has a lack of water i.e. lack of hydration. This is where superficial lines and wrinkles come from: lack of moisture. Dehydrated skin is usually atmospheric whereas dry skin is internal. When cold weather arrives moisture in the air drastically drops and skin can appear drier and older. Being exposed to the elements when skiing is another example of being prone to dehydration. I find a BIG dehydrator for my clients is bikram yoga. The heat breaks down collagen and dissolves the fats with the heat causing major moisture loss. A good enzyme exfoliation and a honey mask will restore your skin along with a chug of good ol tap water (drink half your weight in oz).
IMPORTANT: Dry skin is not just about wrinkles, but also skin cancer prevention. Dry skin leaves us vulnerable to UV radiation.
Now you know a couple of ways to fix both your dry and dehydrated skin problems!
