Dehydration & Its Effects on the Skin
A dehydrated body is not solely caused by lack of water intake. Dry skin can also be caused by harsh chemicals, varying climates and excessive salt intake. Though the effects of dehydration are typically seen on the skin's surface, the damage begins much deeper.
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Deep-Rooted Issue
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Interstitial fluid that travels through the blood has the ability to penetrate individual cells, injecting nutrients and water that are vital to cellular function. That same fluid then acts as a waste collector for the cells, and helps direct it out of the body. Without this exchange of water and wastes, our cells stop functioning and eventually die.
Effects
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The way this cellular dehydration manifests on the skin's surface is through the visibility of dryness and tightness. As the cells dry out, our tissue becomes less resilient and it's seen in the form of skin that may appear to be shrunken, rough, scaly, cracked or discolored.
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Causes
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Harsh facial cleansers can strip lipids from the surface of the epidermis, subjecting the skin to moisture loss. Also, certain illnesses and medications, excessive intake of salt and coffee, use of astringent, lack of proper moisturizers and cigarette smoking can cause adverse affects.
Moisture Retention Products
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Many moisturizers are available that can be used to rehydrate the skin. Over-the-counter products that contain natural moisturizing factors such as amino acids, glucose or electrolytes can aid in the retention of moisture.
Link to Acne
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Dehydration of the skin cannot alone cause acne. Usually, it's coupled with other common causes such as hormones, genetics or cosmetics. But because dehydration can be a factor and cause pores to clog, it's important to drink water to help rid your skin of toxins, chemicals, wastes and oils.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of D. Sharon Pruitt
