If your skin is feeling tight, looking dull, lacking plumpness, and has red, flaky patches, you may jump to the conclusion that you have dry skin. Let me ask you one question тАУ has your skin always been dry? If not, itтАЩs much more likely that your skin is dehydrated. Dry skin is skin that is low in sebaceous activity тАУ nerd speak for it not producing as much oil as it should. Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is low in water rather than oil тАУ it's not a genetic predisposition but more of a result of lifestyle factors such as a diet low in fatty acids and other nutrients like vitamins and minerals, alcohol consumption, misuse of skincare products and harsh weather conditions.