Dehydrated skin can show several signs that indicate a lack of moisture and hydration. Here are some of the most common signs that your skin is dehydrated:
Tightness or dryness: When your skin is dehydrated, it may feel tight, dry, or rough to the touch.
Dullness: Dehydrated skin can appear dull and lackluster, as it loses its natural glow.
Fine lines and wrinkles: Dehydration can cause fine lines and wrinkles to appear more pronounced, as the skin loses its elasticity and resilience.
Redness or inflammation: Dehydrated skin can become irritated and inflamed, with red patches and blotches.
Itching or flaking: As the skin loses moisture, it can become itchy and flaky, with dry patches and rough spots.
Increased sensitivity: Dehydrated skin can become more sensitive to external irritants and pollutants, and may react to products that it previously tolerated
How does Dehydration occur?
Dehydration occurs when the stratum corneum (outermost layer of the epidermis) lacks moisture. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental conditions like low humidity, over exposure to air conditioning, having hot baths or showers that can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture, skincare products containing harsh ingredients, not drinking enough water or, conversely, drinking too much coffee or alcohol.
How can I treat Dehydration?
When addressing dehydration, it’s important to consider both immediate and long term culprits. There are several steps you can take to restore moisture and hydration to your skin:
Hydrate from the inside out: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and to replenish moisture levels in your skin. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. Sip herbal, non-caffeinated teas throughout the day to keep up your intake.
Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser: Choose a cleanser that does not contain harsh chemicals and is designed to help retain moisture in your skin.
Moisturise regularly: Use a barrier protecting moisturiser, search for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera and lactic acid.
Use a humidifier: If the air in your home is dry, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from becoming dehydrated.
Avoid hot showers or baths: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture, so using lukewarm water instead can help to prevent further dehydration.
Incorporate foods with a naturally high water content into your meals, such as leafy greens, fruits and celery. While steering clear of ingredients or foods that will strip moisture from your liver for example added salt.
In addition to these steps, If your skin dehydration is severe or persistent, it's always a good idea to consult with a skin therapist, dermatologist or healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment options.
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