6 Ways to Tell That You Have Dehydrated Skin
What’s the Difference Between Dry and Dehydrated Skin?
Dry skin is caused by a lack of oil — if your pores aren’t producing enough sebum, you may have rough or flaky skin that needs oil. Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a lack of water. Think of a prune versus a juicy plum: dehydrated skin feels tight and overstretched, exacerbates fine lines and wrinkles, and causes your complexion to appear dull.
It can be difficult to tell the difference. If you have persistent skin issues, consult an esthetician for a professional opinion and personalized treatment recommendations.
How to Tell If You Have Dehydrated Skin
Itchy Skin
Hot weather, cold climates, dry air, sun exposure, and extended time in water can all deplete your skin’s hydration levels, leaving you feeling tight and itchy. If you notice white flakes when scratching, your skin is giving you a clear sign.
Sensitive Skin
Once your skin becomes dehydrated, it loses its natural defenses. Pollutants and bacteria can irritate it more easily, leading to redness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
Cracked Lips
Without adequate water intake, lips can become dry and cracked. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day supports all bodily functions — including keeping your lips smooth and supple.
Dull Skin
When your skin doesn’t have enough water, cell turnover slows down. Dead skin cells build up on the surface, giving your complexion a dull, tired look and potentially clogging pores.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Dehydrated skin speeds up signs of aging. Without enough water, fine lines can appear across your face in a network of tiny wrinkles — just like a prune.
Dark Circles
Without enough water, the skin under your eyes can look sunken and darken. This is one of the most common skincare complaints — and it can be directly related to your water intake. Banish dark circles not with makeup, but with hydration.
How to Treat Dehydrated Skin
Most crucially: drink water. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, and more if you live in a warm climate or exercise extensively. You can also increase water intake through food — watermelon, cucumber, and lettuce all have high water content.
Protect your skin from the sun daily. Even if your skin doesn’t turn red, it can still absorb rays that dehydrate and damage cells. Wear Complete Defense SPF 40 every day, even on cloudy days.
To hydrate topically, use Rapid Lift Hydra Serum daily. This deeply penetrating serum delivers immediate and long-term hydration, helping your skin fight fine lines, redness, irritation, and other signs of dehydration. For serious dehydration, use both morning and night.
Dehydrated skin can leave your complexion feeling tight, itchy, and irritated — with cracked lips, dullness, fine lines, and dark circles. All of these symptoms stem from a lack of water, which can be addressed with regular hydration, daily SPF, and a targeted hydrating serum. Now that you know the signs, you can take the proper steps to restore your glow.
