How To Treat Dehydrated Skin And Its Prevention Tips?

Come summer or winter, is your skin always dehydrated? Dehydrated skin can be as bad as having oily skin. But does it have damaging effect on your visage? And how can one hydrate and nourish the skin without causing any side effects?

Hydrated Skin vs Dehydrated Skin

Is there any difference between hydrated and dehydrated skin? Many a times, people cannot differentiate between the two. And more often than not, dehydrated skin can even be confused for dry skin! Here are some ways for you to understand and differentiate between dehydrated skin and hydrated skin –

• Hydrated skin – The skin is soft, supple, plump and has a lovely sheen (not oily!) to it. The skin moves easily without any sensation of tautness. Hydrated skin is often seen among young children and on well-maintained complexion.

• Dehydrated skin – The skin tends to look unnaturally tight even after being moisturized thoroughly. Dehydrated skin lacks water content and can appear withered. Skin hydration can be achieved by regular exfoliation, surplus intake of water, eating fruits and vegetables with high water content and of course moisturizing. Dehydrated skin occurs mainly during the hot months of summer and is often seen among older folks and adults.

Also Read: What Causes Dry Skin?

What Does Dehydrated Skin Look Like?

How can one tell if they are suffering from dehydrated skin? Here are some dehydrated skin symptoms and signs –

1. Uneven complexion
2. Flaky skin with red blotches
3. Tight or taut skin
4. Irritated skin with frequent acne breakouts
5. Dry and dull complexion

Can dehydration cause skin problems?

Skin is very delicate and to maintain the perfect equilibrium between moisture and hydration can be a daunting task. If left dry or dehydrated for too long, the skin can pose future problems. Dehydrated skin can lead to premature aging and cause fine lines, wrinkles, excessively dry skin, blotchy and dull complexion, and even acne.

Hydration Treatment For Skin

The skin must be hydrated on a daily basis in order to restore the loss of water. The skin loses water through sweat and movement. There are many ways to re-hydrate and replenish the lost water. Let us look at some excellent methods on how to hydrate skin.

1. Using products with Hyaluronic acid – Hyaluronic acid is produced by the skin naturally, but external factors such as pollution, hormonal imbalance, stress etc. can affect this natural process. Using serum, lotions and creams with Hyaluronic acids will restore the moisture back into the skin.
2. Derma Fillers – An excellent way to hydrate the skin for long term benefits. Derma Fillers such as Radiesse, Juvederm Hydrate and Restylane Vital are all beneficial in terms of increasing Hyaluronic acid in the skin and reverse the signs of aging.
3. Laser Therapy – Now this may not hydrate the skin, but it will definitely get rid of dead skin cells, increase collagen production and help diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Laser therapy uses light energy to enter the deepest layers of skin and removes the upper layers of skin leaving it smooth and youthful.
4. Chemical peels – Peels are a wonderful way to exfoliate the dead skin cells and brighten the complexion. They can increase hydration, improve the tone and texture, help absorb other skin products, stimulate healthy skin-cell growth and induce collagen production. Do not attempt to use chemical peels without the supervision of a dermatologist.

Also Read: How To Get Glowing Skin?

Ways To Prevent Dehydration Of Skin

Skin hydration is of utmost importance if you want to prevent any further skin damage. There are many ways to prevent your skin from dehydrating and becoming a wilted flower. Here are some easy tips you can incorporate in your skin care routine and diet to stop your skin from dehydrating –

1. Drink up – Since dehydrated skin lacks water, the best way to re-hydrate your fragile skin is by consuming plenty of water. Internal hydration is as important as external hydration. Aim for 2-3 liters per day to see a noticeable difference.
2. Fruits and vegetables – Again, using the above logic, consuming fruits and vegetables that have high water content will hydrate the skin and make it soft and supple. Try to include food items such as cucumber, celery, watermelon, grapes, tomatoes and lettuce in your diet.
3. Exfoliate – if you want your skin care products to penetrate deep into the layers of your skin, then you will have to exfoliate and remove the hindering dead skin cells for this purpose. Exfoliate your skin by using gentle ingredients at least 2-3 times a week. Never overdo this step as it may make your skin more sensitive and dry.
   

   Also Read: How To Exfoliate Skin?

4. Sunscreen – Water evaporates under the sun rays and this holds true for the skin as well. Exposing yourself to direct sunrays without any protection (sunscreen or shade) will result in dehydrated skin. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin 15 minutes before stepping out and reapply every 3 hours for the sunscreen to be effective.
5. Moisturize – Of course the best way to hydrate the skin is to apply generous amount of moisturizer. Consult with your dermatologist before using any product to ensure it suits your skin type accurately.
6. No alcohol and smoking – The consumption of both alcohol and cigarettes have a negative impact on the skin. Both are dehydrators and can dry out the skin faster than any other factor. Please quit smoking and limit your alcohol intake in order to maintain skin hydration.
7. Use a humidifier – Humidifiers help add moisture to the air. With more water content present in the atmosphere, the skin benefits greatly. The humid air with make your skin supple, soft and hydrated.
8. Gentle facial cleanser – Using a strong cleanser with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and other harsh chemicals with suck the water content from your skin. Instead opt for a mild, pH balanced, dermatologically tested cleanser that will gently wash away the dirt and impurities.
9. Do not use hot water – Of course we want to add the water back into the skin, however using hot water to wash the skin will damage and dehydrate the upper layer or epidermis of your skin. Use warm water whilst showering and finish with a splash of cold water to close the pores.
10. Select the ingredients carefully – A lot of ingredients such as silicones, mineral oils, alcohol, parabens etc. are added to your skin care products. Such ingredients are again dehydrating and harmful. Please read the ingredients before using any product.

Bringing balance to your skin is very important if you want to prevent premature wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Dehydration of skin is dangerous but overcoming it is fairly easy. Visit your dermatologist and find out what must be done to overcome this minor skin problem.