Oily skin, dehydrated skin: a mix-up we see a lot in New Lambton Heights

If your skin feels oily by the afternoon but still looks dull and tight, the two aren't contradicting each other - it's one of the most common patterns we see at Skin Biology.

Oil and water are separate systems

Your skin's oil production and its water content are controlled separately. Skin can produce plenty of surface oil and still be genuinely low in moisture underneath. That combination often shows up as dullness - a build-up of dull, dead surface skin sitting on top of skin that isn't holding enough water, even though it feels oily to the touch.

Which part of your routine is working against you

Because oil and water are separate problems, a routine built around "oily skin" alone - stripping cleansers, alcohol-heavy toners, hot water, frequent scrubbing - can keep removing oil while doing nothing for the water deficit underneath, or even making it worse. A simple check: if your skin feels tight or tingly straight after cleansing, that step is likely taking more moisture than it's giving back, no matter how much oil it also cleared.

What actually helps

For dull, dehydrated-looking skin, hydrodermabrasion is our non-invasive go-to because it exfoliates and hydrates in the same step, clearing surface build-up while infusing moisture and serums. Many people notice a fresher, more hydrated-looking glow soon after, though responses vary and we tailor pressure and products to your skin.

Regular facials and the right home routine - one that treats oil and hydration as separate problems - keep the result going.

If your skin has been looking flat or dull no matter how oily it feels, it's worth having an honest look at dullness and dehydration rather than guessing at another product. Book a skin consultation with Melissa to find out what your skin actually needs.