How to know if your skin is dehydrated?
Our skin is the body’s largest organ and plays a crucial role in protecting us from the environment. However, when it lacks hydration, it can lead to various issues. In this blog, we will explain how to know if our skin is dehydrated.
1. Dryness and Tightness
Dehydrated skin lacks moisture, causing it to feel dry and tight, especially after washing the face or taking a shower. This happens because water further strips away natural oils from the skin.
2. Flakiness and Rough
Skin Texture Dehydrated skin often feels rough when touching and may cause flaky patches, particularly in areas prone to dryness like the cheeks and around the nose.
3. Increased Sensitivity
Dehydration can compromise the skin’s natural barrier, leading to increased sensitivity. If you find that your skin reacts more easily to skincare products, weather changes or other environmental factors, it might be dehydrated. This can manifest as stinging, burning, or itching sensations on the skin.
4. Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Dehydrated skin tends to show signs of aging more prominently. When the skin lacks sufficient moisture, fine lines and wrinkles become more visible, particularly around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Hydrated skin appears plump and smooth, whereas dehydrated skin may appear creased and more prone to premature aging.
5. Skin Dullness
When skin is dehydrated, it can lose its natural radiance and appear dull. This is because it creates cracks in skin’s surface and causes dead skin cells to build up, making the complexion look uneven and lacklustre.
6. Redness and Irritation
In some cases, dehydration can lead to redness and inflammation of the skin. This may present as blotchy patches or areas of redness, particularly on the cheeks, nose, and chin. Irritated skin may feel warm when touching and may be more prone to conditions such as eczema or dermatitis.
7. Skin Oiliness
Dehydrated skin can sometimes produce excess oil as the skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture. This can lead to a combination of dry and oily areas on the face. This excess oiliness may exacerbate issues such as clogged pores and acnes.
Recognizing these signs of dehydration can help us to address the underlying issue and restore hydration balance to our skin. If you’re unsure about your skin condition or how to properly hydrate it, you can always come and consult us at Xeoul Clinic.
Author: Dr Lim Xin Ying, 5 April 2024
