Dry Skin
When we refer to dehydrated skin the first thoughts that spring to mind are harsh weather conditions or cleansing products drying out the skin and the need to apply moisturisers. However, a large amount of dry skin problems can be attributed to a lack of water consumption or internal dehydration.
Dehydration in the body leads to dry skin as the body restricts the water supply to the skin in an attempt to preserve supplies for vital organ function, such as the circulatory system and kidney function. One of the first signs of dehydration is the loss of elasticity in the skin as water supplies are severely restricted.
Dehydration & Skin
Water is vital to skin cellular functions as it carries vital nutrients between cells and capillaries in the skins layers. Regularly having dehydrated skin can lead to:
- Scaly skin
- Taut skin
- Superficial lining on the skin
- Premature ageing & wrinkles on the skin.
Skin Layers
Skin is made up of three layers the Epidermis (thinnest and top level), the Dermis (the middle layer containing most of the skins organs), and the Hypodermis (a subcutaneous layer that links the dermis to the underlying organs).
The skins water reserves are found in the two lower layers, the dermis and hypodermis and water levels are controlled by the anti diuretic hormone APH secreted by the pituitary gland. The epidermis only receives water indirectly through the creation of new cells in the dermis which travel upwards as movement between tissues after keratinisation has occurred.
As the body ages the skin gets thinner and loses elasticity, causing sagging, and this means that it is less able to form a strong protective layer. Regularly drinking water, made easier by introducing water coolers into the office, ensures the health of your skin now and in the future.
