Why Does My Skin Look and Feel So Dry & Dehydrated? A Skin Expert in Grimsby, Lincolnshire Explains — and How to Fix It Properly
- Aggie Singh
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
If you’re constantly asking yourself, “Why does my skin feel tight, rough, flaky, or dull no matter what I use?” — you are not alone. Many people face this frustrating issue, especially during the colder months. Dry and dehydrated skin is one of the most common concerns clients bring to skin clinics in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, and across the UK. This post will explain why your skin might feel this way, the difference between dry and dehydrated skin, why winter worsens these conditions, and how to properly care for your skin to restore its health and comfort.

Why Does My Skin Feel Dry Even After Moisturising?
One of the most common questions is why skin still feels dry after applying moisturiser. The answer lies in understanding what your skin truly needs. If moisturiser alone does not help, it usually means:
Your skin barrier is damaged. The skin barrier protects against moisture loss and external irritants. When it is compromised, moisture escapes easily.
Your skin is dehydrated, not just dry. Dehydration means a lack of water in the skin, while dry skin means a lack of oil.
Your skincare products do not address the root cause. Some products only add moisture temporarily without repairing the barrier or locking in hydration.
Your skin may need professional support. Sometimes, over-the-counter products are not enough to restore skin health.
Moisturisers mainly work by adding oils and occlusives to prevent water loss, but if your skin barrier is damaged or your skin lacks water, moisturiser alone cannot fix the problem.
Dry Skin and Dehydrated Skin Are Not the Same
Many people confuse dry skin with dehydrated skin, but they are different conditions:
Dry skin is a skin type that produces less oil. It often feels rough or flaky and is common as we age.
Dehydrated skin is a skin condition caused by a lack of water. It can affect any skin type, even oily skin. Dehydration makes fine lines more visible and causes tightness, sensitivity, and dullness.
For example, someone with oily skin can still experience dehydration if their skin loses water due to environmental factors or harsh skincare routines. Many people in their 40s experience both dry and dehydrated skin, especially during winter.
Why Does My Skin Get Worse in Winter?
Winter is the peak season for dry and dehydrated skin, especially in cold climates like Lincolnshire. Several factors contribute to this:
Cold outdoor air damages the skin barrier. Low temperatures and wind strip away natural oils.
Central heating pulls moisture from the skin. Indoor heating dries the air, which in turn dries your skin.
Hot showers strip protective lipids. While warm showers feel comforting, hot water removes the skin’s natural oils.
Over-cleansing or harsh exfoliation. Using strong cleansers or exfoliating too often can damage the skin barrier.
Using products not suited to seasonal changes. Skincare needs to adapt to colder weather with richer, more nourishing formulas.
As we age, the skin produces less oil and fewer natural moisturising factors, making dehydration and dryness more noticeable during winter.
How to Fix Dry and Dehydrated Skin Properly
Fixing dry and dehydrated skin requires a multi-step approach that focuses on repairing the skin barrier and restoring hydration:
1. Use Gentle Cleansers
Avoid harsh soaps or foaming cleansers that strip oils. Choose mild, hydrating cleansers that clean without damaging the skin barrier.
2. Repair the Skin Barrier
Look for products containing ingredients like:
Ceramides: Help rebuild the skin’s protective layer.
Fatty acids: Support skin barrier repair.
Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation and strengthens the barrier.
3. Hydrate with Humectants
Humectants attract water into the skin. Ingredients like:
Hyaluronic acid
Glycerin
Sodium PCA
These help increase skin moisture levels.
4. Lock in Moisture
Use moisturisers with occlusive ingredients such as:
Shea butter
Petrolatum
Squalane
These prevent water loss by forming a protective layer on the skin.
5. Adjust Your Routine for Winter
Limit hot showers to 5-10 minutes.
Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to dry air.
Avoid over-exfoliating; limit exfoliation to once a week or less.
Choose richer creams instead of light lotions.
6. Seek Professional Advice
If your skin remains dry and uncomfortable despite these steps, consider visiting a skin expert. Professional treatments and tailored skincare can address deeper issues and provide lasting relief.
Common Mistakes That Worsen Dry and Dehydrated Skin
Using alcohol-based toners or astringents that dry out skin.
Skipping sunscreen, which can worsen skin damage even in winter.
Applying skincare products in the wrong order reduces their effectiveness.
Ignoring diet and hydration, drinking enough water supports skin health.
Final Thoughts on Managing Winter Skin
Dry and dehydrated skin can feel uncomfortable and affect your confidence. Understanding the difference between dry and dehydrated skin and why winter makes these issues worse is the first step to better care. Focus on repairing your skin barrier, hydrating properly, and protecting your skin from harsh environmental factors.
If you struggle with persistent dryness, consult a skin expert in Grimsby or your local area. They can recommend treatments and products tailored to your skin’s needs, helping you enjoy healthy, comfortable skin all winter long.
Ready to Stop Guessing and Start Fixing Your Skin?
If you’re tired of Googling “why is my skin so dry?” and trying product after product with no real results, it may be time for professional guidance.
📍 Located in Grimsby, Lincolnshire
🌐 Learn more or book your consultation at:👉 https://aggiesingh.com
Your skin doesn’t need more products — it needs the right care.
Aggie Singh
cosmetologist
Skin Expert Judge TSG US

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