These Are The Best Products For Acne-Prone, Dehydrated Skin This Winter

Chloe Williams​
Jan 11, 2024
how to fix dry dehydrated skin best products

Cold weather, minimal sunlight, and all that holiday food can take quite a toll on your skin no matter where you live. But if you're feeling confused about why your skin constantly swings between dry and oily, you might actually be dealing with dehydrated skin instead of dry skin. While the latter is a skin type that comes from a lack of oil production, the former is actually a sign that your body needs more water.

If you're looking to change up your skincare routine, or add something to your skin cycling, but you're not sure how new products will affect your skin, try out a mini option before going for the full size. We'd also recommend giving yourself at least two weeks with a product to allow your skin to adjust.

Here are the types of products we're diving into:

  • Cleansers
  • Serums
  • Moisturizers
  • Exfoliators
Keep reading for everything you need to know about dry skin versus dehydrated skin, and the product recommendations that will make you glow.

How Do I Know If My Skin Is Dry Or Dehydrated?

The main difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin is that dry skin is a skin type, while dehydrated skin is a condition that can happen to anyone with any skin type.

If your skin is dry all year round and doesn't product very much oil, that's a sign you could have dry skin. Whereas if your skin is frequently oily and acne-prone, but it's feeling dry during the winter, you could have dehydrated skin.

Does Dry Skin Mean You're Dehydrated?

Dry skin is because of a lack of oil, or sebum, production. Dehydrated skin, however, is due to a lack of water, whether from internal (diet or how much water you drink) or external factors (weather). That means that dry skin is not a reflection of how hydrated you are.

Should You Exfoliate Dehydrated Skin?

Exfoliation can help remove any dead skin cells that have built up on the surface of your face. That means you won't be dealing with rough skin patches *and* the products you use will be able to penetrate your skin and hydrate better. Just be sure not to exfoliate too much!

How Do You Treat Dehydrated Skin?

Image via Sora Shimazaki/Pexels

While thick lotions and oils lock in natural moisture to fight dry skin, you can take a different approach for dehydrated skin. Increase your water consumption with glasses of water or by eating foods that are high in water value. We're loving this watermelon lemonade and bite-sized cucumber rollups.

You can also use face mists to add an extra layer of hydration and pamper yourself at the same time, or add a humidifier to your room.

Skincare Products For Dehydrated Skin

Face Washes For Dehydrated Skin

Youthforia's New Night Off Face Wash

Made with green tea, apricot seed oil, and green tea antioxidants called tannins, this is one face wash that brightens your skin while it hydrates.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser

Not only is this cleanser for all skin types, but it will break down oils and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural hydration.

Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser

Gentle and hydrating, Glossier's cleanser is pH-balanced and features the cleansing agent that's used in contact lenses, meaning it won't irritate.

Fenty Beauty Total Cleans'r Makeup-Removing Cleanser With Barbados Cherry

The face wash from Rhianna's beauty brand is cruelty-free, clean, and will both comfort and refresh your skin.

Geologie Clear System - 60 Day Acne Routine Level 1 + 2

Instead of merely offering an acne wash that tackles breakouts, Geologie has developed the Clear System which includes two levels of their clarifying gel cleanser, one brightening day cream, and two levels of their repairing night cream. When asked about the formula, Geologie's co-founder and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steve Xu said, "Benzoyl peroxide — though an effective acne treatment — can cause intolerable redness, itching and burning, and many patients will quit these treatments as a result. The first 90 days of starting any new acne system are the most crucial, so our goal was to create a routine that was very effective, tolerable and very enjoyable to use. We did just that with Clear System, and proved it in clinical testing. Now, you don’t have to choose between beating acne and having healthy, hydrated skin. Better yet, you’ll enjoy the process and see the results."

Our Editorial Intern Jasmine had a chance to try the Clear System and has experienced minimal breakouts as a result. It's something she tried for 30 days and recommends for anyone who doesn't want to guess what they should use in addition to a hydrating acne cleanser.

Serums

The Ordinary Niacinamide

Niacinamide works by purging your pores (so don't worry if you breakout the first two weeks you use it — that means it's working!) to refine and smooth. It can help dehydrated skin by preventing water evaporation.

Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Serum

If you're dealing with blackheads, breakouts, or even excess oil, this is a serum that will improve your skin's texture and the look of your pores.

bareMinerals Skinlongevity Long Life Herb Serum

Niacinamide is one of our favorite skincare ingredients because it helps to heal and protect your skin's barrier. Anyone with dehydrated skin can trust that this serum will encourage healthy cell turnover to ensure you have glowing skin.

Lancôme Advanced Génifique Radiance Boosting Anti-Aging Face Serum

Yes, you can absolutely use a radiance boosting serum that has anti-aging properties when you have dehydrated skin! Some of the ingredients you'll find in this one are hyaluronic acid, Vitamin Cg, and Bifidus Prebiotic.

Tatcha The Dewy Serum

The great thing about this multitasking skincare product is that it smooths, plumps, and locks in the moisture that will keep your skin looking fresh.

Summer Fridays Dream Oasis Deep Hydration Serum

This non-comedogenic jelly-serum features hyaluronic acid and works great for both the dryness and redness that might be affecting your dehydrated skin. Stash it in your carry on or your purse for skincare magic on-the-go.

Moisturizers

Paula's Choice Water-Infusing Electrolyte Moisturizer

Get rid of dull, dehydrated skin with electrolytes like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It's like Gatorade for your face!

Supergoop! Daily Dose Bioretinol + Mineral SPF 40 Fluid

This SPF is more than just sunscreen — it's got retinol to improve the look of fine lines while also protecting your dehydrated skin from the sun. That's definitely a win-win.

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

We can personally recommend this fragrance-free, hydration moisturizer. The ceramides help improve your skin's barrier, and it works just as well after shaving your legs as it does on your face.

Honest Beauty Deep Hydration Face Cream

This dermatologist-approved moisturizer comes complete with baobab seed oil and shea butter, but the best part about it is that it's hypoallergenic. Your dehydrated skin will thank you for the smooth introduction.

Cocokind Resurrection Polypeptide Cream

Gentle enough for daily use, this polypeptide cream will help restore your skin to its former glory.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice Oil-Free Moisturizer

If your skin is acne-prone and sensitive to oils, you definitely want to find an oil-free moisturizer that won't make you break out. Not only does this pick not have oil, but it does have hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract, and antioxidants.

Exfoliators For Dehydrated Skin

dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator

A gentle exfoliator will remove dead skin cells without irritating your dehydrated skin, and the combo of oatmeal, rice, and salicylic acid can brighten your complexion in a week.

e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant

This is definitely one exfoliant that is gentle on sensitive skin — it's never made us break out! The papaya active ingredient adds a light fragrance and our skin always feels smoother after use. You can also opt for the mini version.

Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

Pull double duty with an exfoliator that's also a cleanser. It'll minimize your morning routine and wake you up with the smell of oranges.

La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub

The "ultra-fine" aspect of this scrub comes from perlite powder, which absorbs oil while spring water and glycerin hydrate.

Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Facial Exfoliator

If you're looking for an exfoliator for your dehydrated skin that doesn't break the bank, try Neutrogena's Bright Boost Resurfacing Facial Exfoliator. It has glycolic acid and mandelic AHAs in it, making it gentle enough to use on your skin.

Let us know how you deal with dehydrated skin in the comments and check out our email newsletter for more skincare hacks.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Sora Shimazaki/Pexels.

This post has been updated.

14 Pink & Red Valentine's Day Nail Ideas For All Your Date Night Needs

Valentine's Day is almost ready to sprinkle her magic in the air, but there are a couple things you should consider. First, you need at least one cute coquette cardigan from T.J. Maxx. (No, seriously, they are SO cute!) Second, your nails need a little TLC in the form of the cutest holiday-inspired ideas we've found.

Come on — it's the one day of the year you get to celebrate love in all forms! We just want you to throw your inhibitions to the wind so you can look as cute as you feel! So here are all the Valentine's Day nail ideas you need for your next trip to the salon, drugstore, or wherever you get your nail care from!

Keep scrolling for the best Valentine's Day nail ideas that'll take you from your Galentine's brunch to a romantic date night!

Gwyn Stewart

1. Strawberry Shortcake & Bows

If you're ditching traditional V-Day plans in favor of something that centers your relationship with your friends, you need something that's not obviously associated with romantic love. Why strawberries? Besides being one of the sweetest fruits you can put in any dessert, they have a cutesy vibe that looks amazing on nails.

P.S. Add a pink bow decal to one of your nails for a bit of contrast!

Patricia Santos

2. Fire Engine Red

This one's for the girl who loves wearing shiny, red, and oval nails because it's her version of the 'Superwoman pose.' We haven't figured out why this color makes us feel so powerful, but we know it's a must for anyone who's not afraid to plan her date on Valentine's Day.

Shai

3. Cherry 8-Ball

Does a little minimalism mixed with a touch of brashness sum up your personality? Great! You'll love these cherry 8-ball nails that have the unmistakable sign of both.

Madalyn Lackey

4. Queen of Hearts

Are you aching to show off your new engagement ring à la Zendaya? Then you need the perfect Valentine's Day nails to complement it like this queen of hearts design. We can't stop staring at the cute red designs that remind us of scones.

(Great, now we're hungry...)

Nail Reformation

5. Nail Reformation Precious Love Nails

These nails remind us of strawberry milk for some reason, but in a totally cutesy and not school lunch-y way. They feel similar to the queen of hearts nails, but the light pink base and different sized hearts creates a slight, sweet difference.

KISS

6. Kiss Voguish Fantasy Artificial Nails

Okay, okay...so these aren't pink or red, but some people love the idea of wearing hearts without all those "traditional" Valentine's Day colors. Seriously, uou'll love wearing these black and white press-on nails! They almost remind us of cow print nails — which we kind of miss wearing, if we're being honest.

Amazon

7. heyhae Valetines Semi Cured Gel Nail Strips

Don't sleep on gel strip nails because they're a great alternative to press-ons! These semi-cured designs make a great fit for Valentine's Day because they blend simplicity with optimism.

Nail Reformation

8. Nail Reformation Love In Motion Nails

Let the whole world know you're in love with these press-on nails! You'll have different heart designs on three fingers, so can wear your heart on your nails, not your sleeve. 😉

Olive & June

9. Olive and June Red Hearts Nails

Similar to the gel strip nails, these cute red heart designs are for the girl who loves to keep things low-key in love. Whether you're single, dating, or secretly engaged (we won't tell), you'll love hiding your heart in plain sight.

Amazon

10. beetles Gel Polish Valentines 'Cherry of Love' Nails

Skip the strawberries and go straight for cherries with these nails. You can still wear them to your Galentine's brunch, but you'll also catch your date smiling at them when you're alone.

Ulta

11. Glamnetic Pure Hearts Press On Nails

These nails are the perfect match for anyone who's a fan of yummy sweet treats! If you're baking all morning for your at-home Valentine's Day plans, make sure your nails are included in the cute pics you'll be adding to Instagram!

Ulta

12. OPI x Wicked xPRESS/ON 'Totally Ozmopolitan' Nails

Take your shiny, red, and oval nails to greater heights — er, lengths — with these OPI x Wicked nails. Since they're press-ons, you can wear them during date night and soak them off later if they feel like a hassle.

KISS

13. KISS Gel Fantasy Jelly Nails

Take a break from all things red, pink, and white by wearing these lilac jelly nails! They have silver hearts on them, giving your nails a shiny glow!

Olive & June

14. Olive and June Secret Sauce Velvet Nails

Designs aren't always needed for memorable nails! Rock this velvet set and watch everyone at your table feel tempted to order a nice glass of red wine...or three.

Follow us on Pinterest for more nail art ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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10 Ways Your Home Office Design Is Killing Your Productivity

I've been working from home since long before it became the norm. And my "office" has evolved from a spindled-back chair at the kitchen table to an airy home office with a view. Back then, my productivity took a hit without essentials like adequate storage space, comfortable seating, and a bit of privacy. While it has its perks, working from home comes with its fair share of challenges; your home office setup doesn't need to be one of them.

Here are 10 ways to redesign your home office for better productivity!

Caio

1. Bad Lighting

Dim or harsh overhead lighting can strain your eyes and limit your focus. Try to get close to a window for natural light or use daylight bulbs to mimic sunlight to boost your mood, creativity, and focus. Find a desk lamp that works for you too!

Ella Jardim

2. Clutter Everywhere

A cluttered desk equals a cluttered mind, IMO. Reduce the stress that comes with a disorganized and cluttered desk by bringing in shelves and organizers; finding sleek cable-management solutions; and removing any unnecessary items to reduce visual distractions.

Vlada Karpovich

3. Uncomfortable Furniture

If you're sitting most of the day, it's so important to invest in a good desk chair. An unsupportive chair or poorly sized desk can be uncomfortable, making it harder to stay focused for long periods of time. Your back will thank you!

Ketut Subiyanto

4. No Boundaries Between Work and Home

Distractions at home like kids and partners can kill your productivity. Avoid blurring the line between work and home life by designating a private space, separate from high-traffic spaces, for your work hours if you can. Use rugs, curtains, or acoustic panels to reduce noise too.

Mizuno K

5. Lack of Storage

I get it, they're not the best-looking pieces in your home, but without proper filing systems you’ll waste time hunting for important documents or supplies. Invest in modern storage options that look good too from Mustard Made and The Container Store.

Vlada Karpovich

6. Unoptimized Tech Setup

Slow Internet or outdated tech tools can make you feel totally frustrated and can slow down your productivity. Upgrade your Internet to a faster connection, and refresh your tech gadgets and programs to make sure you work more efficiently.

Ivan Samkov

7. Awkward Desk Placement

Placing your desk in a spot with too much noise, traffic, or distractions — like facing a TV — will guarantee to disrupt your concentration. Find a more zen spot where you can focus on the tasks of the day.

Anna Shvets

8. Ignoring Ergonomics

Check your monitor height, keyboard positioning, and add a wrist rest so you don't lead to feeling uncomfortable and fatigued, cutting your workday short.

Mikhail Nilov

9. Lack of Personalization

A sterile, uninspiring office design does your motivation and creativity no favors. Make work feel less like a chore by adding personal touches through artwork, personal photos, candles, some fresh flowers or plants. Greenery can improve air quality and actually reduce work stress. Add a little snack station for quick energy boosts and keep water handy. Also, your Zoom backgrounds should reflect your personality!

Serpstat

10. No Inspiration

No matter what you do — whether it's a creative work or something more analytical — you want to feel inspired. Personalization can help, but dive into vision boards, books, magazines, quotes that inspire your work and help you bring fresh ideas to your workday. Color psychology can help too: blues and greens encourage focus and reduce stress while pops of yellow or orange can spark creativity! Break out the paint if needed!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more home decor ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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This $7 Drugstore Lipstick Has Been My Go-To For 10 Years & Counting

I'm a hardcore drugstore makeup gal. My vanity is full of ELF products, Colourpop eyeshadow, and NYX lip oils, but when it comes to lip products, I'm pretty set on what I have for one reason: the drugstore lipstick I've purchased since high school makes my lips look so good, I never want to buy another product.

Now as a type-A eldest daughter, I love sticking to products I know work for me...until they start getting boring. But this L'Oreal lipstick literally never feels like a bore. Every single time I put it on, I'm surprised at just how good it looks. Even though I've been buying it since 2015, it never fails to bring me joy! And TBH, that's what makeup is all about.

Here's everything you need to know about the $7 L'Oreal lipstick.

This L'Oreal lipstick is flattering & moisturizing.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Original Satin Lipstick is a hydrating formula that features Omega 3, Vitamin E, and Argan Oil to moisturize your lips while also providing the perfect amount of color. It's not overwhelming but I can definitely tell when I'm wearing it — and I feel more confident when I do so!

The formula also glides on so smoothly, and doesn't feel tacky, sticky, or cakey like other lipsticks I've tried. And other reviewers agree! "I bought two lipsticks as I needed them in a pinch and I am very pleased with the color and the quality of these lipsticks," one customer said on the Target site. "Great value and they are pretty moisturizing as well."

"I have used it for a long time," another customer said. "It feels good on my lips. It has staying power. I like the different shades."

I also love the simplicity of the tube. It feels modern and minimalist at the same time, and it fits in my smallest handbag which makes touch-ups on a night out easier than ever.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

I've been buying shade 754, Sugar Plum, since I was a senior in high school, and it's the most flattering lipstick I've ever worn. It truly looks like my lips, but better! And one of the best parts is that I can just swipe it on without even looking in a mirror.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

There are also matte options but I prefer the slight shimmer and glow of the satin lipstick — clearly, because I've worn this tube almost all the way down! I definitely need to buy another tube (or two) in the near future. And as we get closer to Valentine's Day, you might want to as well ;).

Are you a fan of L'Oreal lipsticks? Check out Brit + Co's other Best Drugstore Lipstick and Best Drugstore Lip Stain for even more ideas because we are right in the throes of kissing season y'all!!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Spencer Pratt & Heidi Montag Break Down In Tears About “Life Changing” Public Support After $2.5 Million Home Burned Down

The world watched as the devastating L.A. fires swept away home after home last week — including reality TV icons Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt's. To say it was heartbreaking for the L.A. community would be a gross understatement, and these two have been very open about the toll it's taken on their family. In an interview with Good Morning America, the couple opened up to share about their experience — and share the incredible way friends and fans have come together to support them.

Looking for ways to help L.A. after the devastating fires? Here's a very helpful list of resources you can donate to!

Here's how fans are helping Spencer Pratt & Heidi Montag after the L.A. fires

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt joined Good Morning Americaon January 15, 2025 to talk about how the L.A. fires continue to impact them. The couple shared what it was like having to quickly leave their home in a moment's notice. Heidi explained that Spencer told her to grab anything she wanted to keep, so she ended up grabbing her kids' teddy bears because she was so flustered.

When their $2.5 million home actually caught fire, Spencer got choked up talking about watching their kids' rooms burn on their cameras. He said, "Our son’s bed started just burning in the shape of a heart. The fire started in the shape of a heart. I was like, ‘This is like, out of body insane.’"

Outside of that, the couple detailed the loss beyond the material items of it all. Spencer opened up about the memories lost throughout it all, too. He said, “I feel like a ghost. I don’t have a single photo now from before an iPhone existed. I don’t have any of the dumb little things that are on your shelves in your parents’ they’re all gone. Not a single nothing.”

And to Heidi, their home was more than a physical place to live. She shared, “It’s a place that you love that you live, it’s a refuge from the world. And to have that be gone, it’s a really difficult concept to continue to daily deal with."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

In the midst of the devastation, fans and friends have banded together to support Heidi and Spencer in a really unique way. After Spencer posted on TikTok that people should stream Heidi's 2010 album Superficial, so they can generate revenue to rebuild their lives with, people took that and ran with it. The song eventually hit #1 on iTunes, and Spencer even shared that there's potential for it to hit Billboard's Hot 100 Dance Chart, too.

And it's not just fans blasting this throwback song. Friends and fellow celebrities like Paris Hilton and Flava Flav both posted the song on TikTok. Plus, former The Hills co-stars shared the song as well, including Brody Jenner, Kristin Cavallari, and Audrina Patridge.

Heidi said, “The fan support has been such a light in such a darkness for us. It’s life-changing.”

We're sending love to Heidi and Spencer — and all the families impacted by the terrible L.A. fires this year.

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing.

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OMG, Netflix Just Confirmed The ‘You’ Season 5 Release Date (With New Video)

Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) is back for another season of snooping and stalking in New York City, and thanks to the new You season 5 teaser, we know exactly when this new TV show is returning. In addition to showing us characters from the past like Guinevere Beck (Elizabeth Lail), Love Quinn (Victoria Pedretti), and Marienne Bellamy (Tati Gabrielle), Joe straight-up says goodbye to the one person who's always been there: you. Yep, Netflix went there.

“Every season they manage to find new space to make it interesting and relevant,” Penn Badgley told Tudum. “And this season, I think somehow coming back to where it started allowed for it to just become grounded in the way that it needs to also have this kind of spectacular finish.”

Here's a breakdown of that brand new You season 5 teaser.

"Hello, you. Do you remember me? Cause I remember you," Joe asks in the You season 5 teaser, over shots of New York City and Mooney's Books. "Here we are together again, back to where it began."

"A lot has happened these many years together," he continues. "Identities, cities, loves, complications." The trailer is a walk down memory lane for viewers and for Joe as he remembers Beck, Love, and Marienne — and locking them up. Plus some fights and escapes he made along the way.

"All that led me here to now, to where I as always meant to be," he says. "And the one constant, the one thing that has always been there for me, is you. You who have been there the whole time and will be there with me to the end. Goodbye, you."

Okay, this is totally giving me Black Mirror, metaverse vibes, especially since Joe's in his creepy underground bunker with all that blue lighting. I have chills down my spine just watching this!

Is season 5 of You coming out?

Yes, You season 5 is dropping on Netflix April 24, 2025.

We've been waiting for new episodes since season 4 premiered in 2023, but the writers and stars have been planning Joe's ending for much longer. "We have some ideas that we've been talking about pretty much from the beginning," Sera Gamble told EW when she was showrunner in 2023. "It's really the debate about what kind of justice would be fair and appropriate for a guy like Joe. And then do we believe that he would get that kind of punishment? My short answer is like, maybe not from the American system. But there might be other ways. So that's the stuff we're talking about."

But whatever these writers and directors have up their sleeves, Penn Badgley promises You season 5 will come to a "perfect" conclusion. “I would love for people to just be like, ‘Wow, it’s over and I feel good and I don’t want to watch it again,'" he told Harper's Bazaarin March of 2023. And honestly, a perfect ending is all TV fans can hope for these days, right?

Who's in the You season 5 cast?

The final season of You stars Penn Badgley, Madeline Brewer, Anna Camp, Charlotte Richie, and Griffin Matthews.

Are you excited for the final season of You? I cannot wait to see the way Penn Badgley and Netflix bring the show to a close. Follow us on Facebook for the latest You season 5 news — and updates on all your favorite TV shows!

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