How to Tell if Your Skin Is Dehydrated
Skin types vary from person to person. You can have oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, or combination skin. One thing that is consistent and not based on skin type is skin dehydration. Everyone will likely experience skin dehydration at some point. Knowing when and how it occurs is important. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help you spot the signs of skin dehydration to look out for, how to treat it, and how to prevent it.
How to Identify and Treat Dehydrated Skin
Signs of Skin Dehydration
Dehydrated skin reveals itself through dry skin, itchy skin, and/or an uneven complexion. It is not the same as having naturally dry skin. Dry skin is caused by a lack of natural oils. Dehydrated skin is caused from a lack of water and is more of a concern that should be addressed by a dermatologist. Dehydrated skin occurs due to your body losing more water than it is taking in. Not drinking enough water or sweating too much can cause you to lose water, thus dry skin.
If your skin is dehydrated, you may notice itchiness, dullness, under-eye circles, sunken eyes, and/or more noticeable fine lines. Severely dehydrated skin symptoms may include dizziness, dry mouth, lightheadedness and/or weakness. To determine if you are experiencing dry skin or dehydrated skin, pinch a small area of your cheek. If it wrinkles, your skin needs hydration. Fortunately, regular and severe dehydration can be treated.
How to Rehydrate Your Skin
The first step to rehydration is drinking enough water throughout the day. This keeps your skin hydrated and prevents dehydration. Drinking enough water throughout the day also helps clear your complexion and brighten your skin tone.
Drinking plenty of water every day is important but so is the amount of rest you get. Aim to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. This ensures you wake up rested and can help avoid puffy eyes, dullness in the face and other symptoms that can exacerbate dehydration. While you are sleeping, add a humidifier to your room to help your skin retain more moisture and get several hours of hydration at once.
Once you ensure you are drinking enough water and getting enough sleep, you will want to find facial products that aid in the rehydration process. These products should include ingredients, such as glycerin, aloe, honey, lactic acid, or citric acid. Use these products each morning and night to help your skin lock in more moisture.
When to Seek Help
In cases of severe skin dehydration, you should seek help from a dermatologist. If your skin is showing any signs of dehydration, you’re not sure how to handle it, and you’re in Bloomington, Illinois contact us. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can work through treatment options with you.