SOS skincare routine for dull, dehydrated skin

Weekends are the perfect time to give our skin some extra TLC with some masks and exfoliants. I did an SOS skincare a while back that focused more on deep cleansing, but today’s SOS skincare routine is for dull + dehydrated skin that is in need of some serious pick-me-up. 

What is dehydrated skin?

Dry skin is a skin type where the skin doesn’t produce enough oil. On the other hand, dehydrated skin is a condition where the skin is literally, dehydrated, so it’s producing more oil to compensate for the lack of water. As a result, dehydrated skin can be oily and feel tight at the same time.

Renee Rouleau has a detailed post about the difference in skin types, and how to best treat them. Obviously hydration is key, so here is my own SOS skincare routine for when my skin is feeling dull and dehydrated.

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1. I love the REN ClearCalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser because the clay really helps cleanse the skin, but at the same time, it’s still really gentle and soothing on the skin. I prefer using this to my regular cleanser to help prep my skin to better absorb the masks I’ll be applying later.
2. The Klairs Supper Preparation Facial Toner is a favorite I’ve mentioned before, and it’s a lifesaver if you have dehydrated skin. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps your skin better retain moisture, as well as a ton of other beneficial ingredients (and no alcohol). I pat this in gently with my hands, which helps improve circulation and product absorption.
3. After the toner I apply a hydrating jelly mask. The one I’m currently using is Annie’s Way Honey Deep Moisturizing Mask which contains honey extract and hyaluronic acid. Jelly masks are incredible for  hydrating the skin, but most importantly, it softens the skin to allow for better product absorption afterwards, and for easy blackhead removal (if necessary).
4. The last step of any SOS skincare routine will always be a sheet mask. The Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Mask and My Beauty Diary Imperial Bird’s Nest Mask are my 2 favorites for giving my skin the extra hydration and nourishment boost it needs.

After this skincare routine my skin just feels so much more hydrated and brighter as a result. I resume my regular skincare routine after this by following up with a nice moisturizer and SPF during the day. No extra serum or oil required.

Why This Works

Dullness is one of the main symptoms of dehydrated skin, so you can easily treat both issues by giving your skin the moisture it needs. Focus on hydrating and moisture-retaining ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, and avoid harsh foaming cleansers that strip your skin of its natural emollients.

Since this routine uses gentle ingredients, you can incorporate this into your regular skincare as often as needed without having to worry about irritating your skin further. I try to do this 2-3 times in the winter (the heater can really dry out your skin!) and once a week in the summer.

Hope you enjoyed this post, and let me know if you’re interested in more SOS skincare routines for other skin issues! Have a great week!

Jenny Wu

Passionate about science-based skincare. Tested hundreds if not thousands of products since my 20's. Working regularly with brands like iHerb, Ulta, CurrentBody, and MedStar Health to share my knowledge and experience in all things beauty. Learn more.

Skin profile: 35+, dry/combination, focused on well-aging, hydration, and a healthy glow ✨