When it comes to healthy, glowing skin, hydration is key, but it’s not always as simple as drinking more water. From changing weather and sun exposure to skincare habits and product choices, many factors can influence how well your skin retains moisture. In this month’s Dermatologist’s Take, Dr. Fricke shares expert insights on keeping your skin hydrated, balanced, and radiant no matter what the Texas climate brings.
How does the change in weather impact skin hydration, and what changes should people make to their skincare routine this time of year?
Dr. Fricke:
As temperatures drop and humidity levels decrease; the air pulls more moisture from your skin. Indoor heating makes it worse, creating a perfect storm for dryness and dullness. To counteract this, switch to a gentler cleanser, richer moisturizer, and shorter, lukewarm showers. Adding a humidifier to your home can also help restore moisture to the air—and your skin.
What are some signs that your skin is dehydrated, even if it doesn’t feel dry?
Dr. Fricke:
Dehydrated skin often looks dull, feels tight or rough, and may show fine lines that appear more pronounced. You might also notice flakiness, uneven texture, or increased sensitivity. Unlike dry skin (a lack of oil), dehydration is a lack of water, which can affect all skin types—even oily ones.
Is there a difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin, and how should each be treated?
Dr. Fricke:
Yes! Dry skin is a skin type—it means your skin produces less oil (sebum). It needs emollients and occlusives like ceramides, squalane, and shea butter to restore the lipid barrier.
Dehydrated skin is a temporary condition—it lacks water. It benefits from humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol that draw water into the skin.
For many people, both issues overlap, so layering hydrating serums under a richer moisturizer often works best.
How important is moisturizer layering, and what’s the right order to apply hydrating products?
Dr. Fricke:
Layering is key for maximizing hydration. The golden rule: light to heavy.
– Hydrating serum with humectants (e.g., hyaluronic acid)
– Moisturizer with emollients and occlusives to seal everything in
– Sunscreen (AM only)
Think of it like sealing in moisture with a protective coat.
Can over-cleansing or exfoliating strip away the skin’s natural moisture barrier?
Dr. Fricke:
Absolutely. Cleansing more than twice a day or using harsh, foaming products can remove the lipids and proteins that keep your barrier strong. Over-exfoliating—especially with strong acids or scrubs—can cause redness, irritation, and increased water loss. Stick to gentle, pH-balanced cleansers and limit exfoliation to 1–2 times a week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.
What ingredients should people look for (and avoid) in moisturizers for maintaining hydration in mild but dry Texas weather?
Dr. Fricke:
Look for:
– Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol (pull moisture in)
– Ceramides, squalane, shea butter, and dimethicone (seal it in)
– Niacinamide (strengthens barrier and reduces irritation)
Avoid:
– High concentrations of alcohols or fragrances, which can irritate and dry the skin
– Harsh astringents like witch hazel or menthol
– Overly heavy petrolatum-based products during the day if you’re prone to oiliness
Does drinking more water really improve skin hydration, or is it mostly about topical care?
Dr. Fricke:
Hydration starts on the inside, but water intake alone won’t dramatically change your skin unless you’re severely dehydrated. Skin hydration depends more on your barrier function—how well your skin holds onto moisture. So yes, drink water, but don’t skip your moisturizer and barrier-repair ingredients.
How can people with oily or acne-prone skin keep their skin hydrated without clogging pores?
Dr. Fricke:
Use oil-free, non-comedogenic products that still contain hydrating ingredients. Lightweight gel-creams, hydrating serums, and moisturizers with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid are ideal. Avoid skipping moisturizer altogether—when skin becomes dehydrated, it can produce more oil to compensate, worsening breakouts.
Are there any professional treatments, like hydrating facials or laser therapies, that can help improve moisture retention long-term?
Dr. Fricke:
Yes! In-office options like hydra facials, microneedling with hyaluronic acid, and non-ablative laser treatments can boost skin hydration and stimulate collagen. These treatments enhance how well your skin retains moisture and improve texture over time. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist to choose the safest, most effective treatment for your skin type.
What’s your go-to skincare tip for keeping skin hydrated and glowing year-round?
Dr. Fricke:
Keep it simple and consistent. Use a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, and a barrier-strengthening moisturizer, and don’t forget daily sunscreen—UV damage weakens your skin’s ability to hold moisture. Think of sunscreen as your first anti-aging and hydration-preserving step!
Keeping your skin properly hydrated is an essential step toward maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion. By understanding your skin’s unique needs and incorporating expert-recommended habits and products, you can help prevent dryness, irritation, and early signs of aging. For personalized guidance tailored to your skin type, schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists to get expert hydration tips and a professional skin assessment.