How to easily work out if your skin is dehydrated.
If you’re dealing with tight, dry, or flaky skin, there’s a chance your skin might be dehydrated. While dehydration is often associated with things like fatigue and headaches, dehydrated skin can be a bit trickier to spot—especially since it’s often confused with dry skin. But here’s the thing: while they might sound similar, dry skin and dehydrated skin are actually quite different.
What Is Dehydrated Skin?
Dehydrated skin simply means your skin is lacking water. This can happen for a variety of reasons, like not drinking enough water, living in a hot or dry climate, or using harsh skincare products. Even things like taking hot showers or not getting enough sleep can contribute to your skin becoming dehydrated.
Signs of Dehydrated Skin
Wondering if your skin is dehydrated? It might feel tight, look dull, or be more prone to fine lines and wrinkles. You might also notice flaky patches, itchiness, or dark circles under your eyes. Unlike dry skin, which is a skin type, dehydrated skin is a temporary condition that can affect anyone, no matter your skin type.
Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin
Dry skin is all about a lack of oil, whereas dehydrated skin is about a lack of water. You can have oily skin and still deal with dehydration! One quick way to check: pinch the skin on the back of your hand. If it takes a moment to bounce back, your skin might be dehydrated. While dry skin benefits from richer, cream-based moisturisers, dehydrated skin needs water-rich products to replenish that lost moisture.
How to Treat Dehydrated Skin
- Stay Hydrated: The first step in treating dehydrated skin is to drink more water. Aim for six to eight glasses a day, and consider adding an electrolyte supplement to help your body retain moisture.
- Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is crucial for skin health, so make sure you’re getting enough rest each night.
- Moisturise: Use emollient moisturisers that help seal in moisture. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, and apply your moisturiser right after a shower to lock in hydration.
- Re-evaluate Your Skincare Routine: Make sure your skincare routine isn’t too harsh. If you’re using products that are drying or exfoliating, consider giving them a break while you work on restoring your skin’s hydration.
- Use a Humidifier: If you live in a hot or dry climate, a humidifier can add moisture back into the air, helping your skin stay hydrated.
The Final Takeaway
If your skin is looking a bit dull or feeling tight and itchy, it might be dehydrated. While drinking more water is a great first step, you can also help your skin by using hydrating skincare products, ensuring you get enough sleep, and even adding a humidifier to your home.
By taking these steps, you’ll be on your way to getting your skin back to its glowing, healthy self in no time.
