Do you think that the dehydrated skin is the same as the dry skin? Well, you should know that dehydrated skin is a skin concern and dry skin is a skin type. Keep reading to find out what dehydrated skin is and how it is different from dry skin.
What is dehydrated skin?
Did you think that only dry skin is dehydrated? Well, it’s a myth. Regardless of your skin type, your skin cells can be desperate for water. That’s when they get dehydrated. Dehydrated skin shows all the signs similar to that of dry skin. But unlike dry skin, dehydrated skin can cause severe skin problems that need medical attention.
Dry skin vs. dehydrated skin: Key differences
Both cause similar symptoms like peeling, flakiness and discomfort. But there are a few factors that differentiate dry and dehydrated skin.
- Dry skin lacks sebum or natural oils whereas dehydrated skin lacks water
- Dry skin is caused by under active sebaceous glands and with dehydrated skin, body loses more water than you are drinking
- Dry skin is caused by the underlying conditions like hypothyroidism and dehydrated skin can be related to water loss through urination and excess sweating during exercise
Dehydrated skin symptoms
While dry skin can be flaky, itchy and extremely uncomfortable, the dehydrated skin symptoms can be a little different. You might experience the following symptoms if you have dehydrated skin:
- Dullness
- Itchy skin
- Sunken eyes
- Dark circles
- Pronounced fine lines, expression lines and wrinkles
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Tightness
- Skin sensitivity
- Scaly and rough texture
Severe dehydration might cause:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Less frequent urination or dark yellow urine
- Weakness
Apart from these, you are dehydrated if you show the symptoms such as:
- Bad breath
- Less saliva
- Constipation (dehydration worsens it)
- Tendency to faint
- Mood issues (depression and anxiety)
If this is the case, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. Dehydration can become a serious health issue, if overlooked.
How to determine if you have dehydrated skin?
You can determine whether your skin is dehydrated or not with a simple test (called the pinch test). This test can be done by pinching a small portion of the skin on your cheek. You may notice a few wrinkles. If it does not bounce back when you let it go, then your skin is dehydrated. There is another simple test you can do to determine if you are dehydrated. Typically, when you press your nail bed, it turns white. And the blood rushes back when you release the pressure. If you are dehydrated, your nail bed takes a much longer time to become pink or reddish again. To do this test:
- Hold the hand (on which you are going to perform the test) right above your chest.
- By means of your other hand, pinch the nail bed till it turns white totally.
- Release the pressure.
- See how many seconds it takes to turn pink again.
Did you just realize that you are dehydrated and your skin lacks the normal moisture levels? Don’t panic. You can definitely take care of your dehydrated skin. Are you wondering how? Read on.
You can take the following steps to refill the skin’s hydration levels:
- Drink plenty of water. Talk to your doctor to determine what amount is proper for you (as per your activity levels and body weight). It is vital not to drink too much water. It might cause loss of vital minerals from your body.
- Cut down on caffeine consumption.
- Quit smoking.
- Reduce (or quit) alcohol consumption.
- Exercise regularly and sip water during your workout.
- Eat more vegetables, fruits and plant-based foods.
Apart from these lifestyle changes, you can follow some skincare tips to take care of your dehydrated skin.
- Exfoliate often: Dead skin cells, when accumulated, affect the rate at which your skin absorbs dampness. You need to exfoliate your skin at least twice a week in order to avoid the build-up of dead skin cells.
- Apply a hydrating serum: Apply a serum before you put on the moisturizer.
- Put on a heavy night moisturizer: An oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer prevents moisture loss. It keeps your skin moisturized and repairs it while you sleep.
Visit your nearest skin clinic and consult your skin doctor for an evaluation. He or she will be able to help you to determine the root cause. Accordingly, the best course of action for your skin type can be proposed.