Why water dehydrates your skin (yes, really!)

Water exposure
Close up of a woman's face. One side is fresh and healthy the other side is dehydrated and inflamed. There is some skin cream on the health side of her face and in the background we can see a swimming pool next to dry, cracked ground.

You’d think spending hours in water would leave your skin hydrated, right?

Surprisingly, the opposite is true – long-term water exposure can actually dehydrate your skin, leaving it dry, irritated and even damaged. This might seem counterintuitive, but the effects of water exposure, especially in chlorinated or salty environments, can wreak havoc on your skin’s natural barrier.


Let’s dive into why this happens, the symptoms to look out for, and how you can protect your skin if you’re spending hours in the pool, ocean or even a river every day.

Why does water dehydrate your skin?

When you’re submerged in water for long periods, your skin loses its natural oils – those magical protectors that help your skin retain moisture. Without this protective layer, water can actually strip moisture away from your skin instead of adding to it. This is called trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), where the skin loses moisture through evaporation, leaving it dry and compromised.

Studies published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology have shown that frequent water immersion leads to a breakdown in the skin’s lipid barrier. Chlorine and saltwater exacerbate this issue, leading to dehydration and irritation, even in people who don’t typically have sensitive skin.

Symptoms of water-induced skin dehydration

Wondering if your skin might be dehydrated? Here are a few key signs that you’re dealing with dehydration due to prolonged water exposure:

  • Dryness: Despite being in water for hours, your skin feels tight, dry or flaky when you get out. This dryness is a telltale sign that your skin’s protective barrier is struggling.
  • Itchiness: When your skin loses moisture, it can become itchy and irritated, making you more prone to scratching and potentially worsening the issue.
  • Redness and inflammation: Dehydrated skin is more vulnerable to inflammation. Red, blotchy patches might start to appear after regular time in the water.
  • Cracking or peeling: Over time, dehydrated skin can crack or peel, particularly in high-movement areas like hands and feet. This can lead to increased susceptibility to infections.

Health effects of long-term skin dehydration

While skin dehydration might seem like a surface-level issue, its effects can go deeper if left untreated. Prolonged dehydration weakens the skin barrier, making it easier for bacteria and environmental toxins to penetrate the skin. This increases the risk of skin infections and inflammation and can even lead to long-term conditions like eczema or dermatitis.

According to research from the Journal of Dermatology*, dehydration also leads to premature ageing, as the skin struggles to maintain its natural elasticity and smooth texture. If you’re constantly in the water – whether as a swim teacher, lifeguard or aquatic worker – you could be facing these long-term effects sooner than you’d think.

How to protect your skin from water dehydration

If your skin is feeling the effects of long-term water exposure, don’t worry – there are ways to fight back. One of the most effective solutions is using a barrier cream like My Swim Cream, which is specifically designed to protect the skin from prolonged water immersion.

Here’s how it works: My Swim Cream forms a protective layer over your skin, locking in moisture while preventing further water loss. It’s packed with natural oils and waxes that help restore your skin’s lipid barrier and its infusion of Vitamin C from ingredients like Kakadu Plum helps combat inflammation and irritation.

Another important tip? Hydration is key – but from the inside out. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially when you know you’ll be spending extended time in the pool or ocean. Keeping your body hydrated helps your skin stay hydrated too.

Final thoughts: listen to your skin

Your skin is incredibly resilient, but it needs a little help when faced with the constant challenge of water immersion. By recognising the signs of dehydration early and taking proactive steps to protect your skin, you can avoid long-term damage and keep your skin healthy and hydrated, even after hours in the water.

So next time you’re gearing up for a day at the pool, don’t forget to give your skin the protection it deserves. With My Swim Cream, your skin will be ready to take on anything – without the risk of dehydration, skin irritation or long-term health damage.

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References:

 

  1. Study on water-induced skin dehydration: Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.
  2. Research on trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and its effects: Journal of Dermatology.

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