Dehydrated skin, is skin that is lacking water. Whilst drinking water can help in obtaining clear skin, it is not the most important factor for keeping your skin hydrated. When we drink 6-8 glasses of water per day, it ensures that our body is hydrated and that blood is flowing and waste is being removed at an optimal level. The water sits in the cytoplasm of our cells. The trick to holding that water within the skin lies in essential fatty acids.
Skin cells are made up of a watery substance, known as cytoplasm which is encased in a membrane made up of essential fatty acids. During its 28 day cycle, the skin cell releases these EFA's and water into the upper layers of the skin. This lipid layer floats to the top ( as oil does) and continues it role, this time encasing the water within our tissues.
We need a strong cell membrane full of EFA's to prevent water loss, shield the skin against bacteria and avoid inflammation.
Signs your skin is lacking water include:
Tight or flaky skin
Persistent redness
Congestion in the pores
Breakouts
Fine lines and wrinkles
A thickened epidermis.
You see, if you don't have enough water in your skin, the skin will not be functioning correctly. It is not shedding it's redundant cells, which means it is not communicating to the cells below that it's time to create new cells. These include our all important Fibroblast cells, which are responsible for producing Collagen, Elastin and Hyaluronic Acid in the skin.
So how do we get essential fatty acids in our diet? You need to increase fats in the diet, two forms of Omega 3, Eicosapentaenic Acid (EPA) & Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). These can be found in specific types of fish such as salmon ( caught in the wild, not farmed), seeds, and nuts. You can also take EFA supplements such as DMK's EFA Ultra designed specifically to support skin functioning, internal health and overall well-being.
Embracing a balanced approach to hydration, focused both internally and externally is key to unlocking your skin's natural vibrancy and resilience. By enriching your diet with essential fatty acids, you're not just hydrating your skin—you're transforming it, ensuring a glow that's not only seen but deeply felt.
If you feel like you may be experiencing dehydration, talk to one of our skin experts. Book in for a Complimentary Skin Consultation, or see suggested skin treatments below.
Skin treatments for Dehydration: