Is it possible to have oily and dehydrated skin at the same time? Spoiler: yes.
It may sound contradictory, but many people with combination or oily skin experience tightness, a lack of flexibility, or a dull appearance at the same time.
Does this sound familiar? If so, your skin could be dehydrated.
Dehydration is not the same as dry skin. While dry skin lacks oil, dehydrated skin lacks water.
And yes: oily skin can lose water too!
Why can you have oily and dehydrated skin at the same time?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, factors such as the use of harsh products, climate, stress, or inadequate routines can disrupt the skin barrier and cause this dehydration, even in oily skin.
Although it may seem contradictory, it's much more common than you might imagine. Many people with oily or combination skin experience tightness, discomfort, a lack of elasticity, and even notice their skin losing its radiance. Does this sound familiar?
The key is to differentiate two concepts that are often confused: oily skin and dehydrated skin.
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Oily skin produces excess sebum.
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Dehydrated skin suffers from water loss.
And yes: skin can be overly oily and dehydrated at the same time.
This imbalance occurs when the skin barrier is compromised: it loses water, but responds by generating more oil as a defense mechanism. The result: shinier skin, more pimples... and less comfort.
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How to identify dehydrated oily skin?
Here are some common signs that can help you identify if this is your case:
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Shiny skin in the T-zone but feeling tight.
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Pimples or clogged pores accompanied by fine scales.
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Skin that is easily irritated when applying products.
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You put on your makeup and after a while your foundation looks cracked or absorbed.
This combination is more common than you might think and doesn't require less hydration, but rather the right kind of hydration.
Why does dehydration occur in oily skin?
There are many common causes:
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Overly aggressive products that damage the skin barrier (very astringent cleansers, excessive exfoliation, etc.).
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Routines that eliminate all fat, confusing "mattifying" with "dehydrating."
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External factors such as dry weather, heating, stress, poor diet...
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Lack of real hydration (it's not enough to just not put on cream; the skin needs water).
When the skin loses water, it defends itself by producing even more oil. The result: more shine, more pimples, and an uncomfortable feeling. A vicious cycle we can break!
How to moisturize oily and dehydrated skin (without making shine worse)
✅ Use a gentle cleanser, free of harsh sulfates and alcohol. Cleansing should be gentle, not extreme.
✅ Always moisturize, even if your skin is already shiny. The trick is to choose lightweight textures, such as serums or emulsions.
Star ingredients to hydrate without feeling greasy
At OhMyKoko, we carefully select the most effective ingredients to hydrate and balance oily or combination skin, without adding excess sebum or clogging pores. Here are the key ingredients in our formulas, based on scientific research that validates their benefits:
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Niacinamide: This active ingredient, also known as vitamin B3, is widely recognized for its ability to regulate sebum production in the skin, helping to control shine and prevent acne breakouts. It also improves the skin barrier, which is essential for keeping skin hydrated and balanced.
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Lotus flowers: Lotus extract is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe the skin, reducing irritation and redness. It also protects the skin from environmental damage, keeping it fresh and balanced, without feeling greasy.
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Bakuchiol: This ingredient has emerged as a natural alternative to retinol. It stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity, without the side effects often associated with retinol, such as irritation or dry skin. It provides hydration and improves skin texture, making it ideal for sensitive or oily skin.
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Orchid stem cells: Plant stem cells are a powerful regenerative active ingredient that acts at the cellular level to improve skin hydration and elasticity. They help prevent premature aging and protect the skin barrier, resulting in stronger, healthier skin without dullness.
✨ Our products are formulated with ingredients that not only hydrate, but also balance, soothe, and protect your skin, leaving it fresh and radiant, without adding extra oil or causing breakouts.
Ideal routine for dehydrated oily skin
A balanced and consistent routine helps keep your skin comfortable, without feeling tight or breaking out due to lack of hydration.
🌿 Tomorrow
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Gentle cleansing: sulfate-free gel or foam, pH balanced.
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Oil-free moisturizing serum.
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Light moisturizer or emulsion without comedogenic oils.
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Oil-free sunscreen: preferably with a dry finish.
🌙 Night
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Cleansing to remove makeup or SPF.
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Regenerating or soothing serum.
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Light cream that repairs the skin barrier without clogging pores.
👀 Avoid using astringent toners or harsh exfoliants: they further disrupt the natural moisture barrier.
Common mistakes that make dehydrated oily skin worse
🚫 Believing you don't need cream.
🚫 Using products that dry out or remove all sebum.
🚫 Apply thick oils thinking they are moisturizing.
🚫 Not protecting your skin from the sun.
🚫 Exfoliating uncontrollably.
The skin needs water, even if it shines.
What happens if I only mattify and not moisturize?
If you only use mattifying products without replacing lost water, your skin becomes even more dehydrated. In the short term, it may seem like you're reducing shine, but in the medium term, your skin will react by producing more sebum, and the problems will worsen.
Hydration isn't the enemy of oily skin—it's its best ally when done right! 💧
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get pimples from lack of hydration?
Yes. When your skin is dehydrated, it may produce more oil as a defense mechanism, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
What kind of moisturizer should I use?
Light textures, gel or lotion, with moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, that do not add oil.
Do you want to take care of your oily skin without sacrificing the hydration it needs?
At OhMyKoko, we not only offer natural and vegan cosmetics, but we're also the first skin activist brand. Our products are formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients, free of toxic chemicals, designed to balance your skin without irritating it or adding extra oil.
👉 If you haven't already, download our free guide and start your routine with meaning.
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