Dehydration Lines Under Eyes – Signs Your Skin Is Dehydrated
What is the difference between dry skin?
Dry skin is a common skin type, whereas dehydrated skin refers to the skin’s lack of water.
Your skin can become dehydrated, no matter your skin type.
Dehydration can affect the overall appearance of your skin and even accentuate texture in certain areas.
Also, it can cause your skin to look dull and/or feel dry.
Dehydration is often confused with dry skin, but you cannot heal dehydrated skin the same way as dry skin.
What are dehydration lines under the eyes?
Fine lines forming underneath and at the corners of your eyes, as well as itchiness, are common signs of dehydration. Dehydrated skin may also create a muted complexion, or you might notice a lack of brightness.
It can be challenging to rehydrate skin, especially if you assume your skin type is dry when it’s actually dehydrated.
It’s pretty standard for people to treat their skin as the wrong skin type.
However, you can heal dehydrated skin with a few tips.
It’s also crucial to determine the cause of dehydration.
For example, treating dehydration can be difficult if you’re unaware of the primary triggers that ignite your dehydrated skin.
One way you can identify dehydration is by analysing the eye area.
What Are Dehydration Lines?
Dehydrated skin is a condition that can affect all skin types.
It may even highlight and perpetuate signs of premature ageing.
Which means that, unfortunately, most people will overlook the fact that their skin is dehydrated and continue to treat it as if it’s dry or ageing.
For example, dehydrated skin can increase the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
While you may be tempted to reach for anti-ageing products, it’s best to focus on hydration first, as it can help reduce these signs and create a plump texture.
According to Healthline, “Dehydrated skin means that your skin is lacking water.
It can be dry, itchy, and perhaps dull-looking as well.
Your overall tone and complexion may appear uneven, and fine lines are more noticeable.”
Dry Vs Dehydrated Skin
Dry skin and dehydrated skin aren’t interchangeable.
Surprisingly enough, you must treat dry skin differently from how you would dehydrated skin.
Dry skin often refers to a particular skin type, while dehydrated skin is a condition.
Dehydrated skin can affect all skin types.
For example, even oily skin types who notice lines under the eyes or a dull complexion can be dehydrated.
Additionally, dry skin requires different treatment methods.
How To Tell If Your Skin Is Dehydrated
You can tell if your skin is dehydrated in multiple ways.
In most cases, dehydration is easily recognisable around the eye area.
Fine lines or signs of premature ageing can frequently appear if the skin is dehydrated, especially around the eyes.
Healthline also recommends conducting a pinch test: “Pinch a small amount of skin on your cheek for a few seconds…if your skin snaps back, you’re likely not dehydrated.”
This ability for the skin to bounce back can refer to its elasticity.
How else can you tell if your under-eye skin is dehydrated?
Signs Of Dehydrated Skin Around The Eyes
We’ve briefly mentioned how your eye area can look if your skin is dehydrated.
The skin around our eyes is already quite delicate, so significant changes in our body or skin can easily be noticeable and indicate a lack of moisture.
Have you ever woken up looking tired or with a change in your eye area?
It’s common to lose water or moisture during sleep, which can affect the under-eye area.
Other signs include fine lines, dark circles, or sunken eyes.
Fine Lines
Fine lines are often associated with dry or ageing skin.
They may first appear around your eyes.
However, if you notice an increase in fine lines or wrinkles, don’t panic just yet because it may be a sign of dehydration.
It can be tempting to reach for an over-priced anti-ageing eye cream, but it won’t solve these textural issues if they are caused by dehydration.
Before determining if these lines are a sign of ageing, try increasing water or moisture retention in the skin first.
You may be surprised to learn that fine lines can quickly disappear when the skin is well-hydrated.
Hydrated skin will appear smoother and plumper, while also reducing the signs of premature ageing.
Dark Circles
Dark circles can be tricky to treat. For some individuals, dark circles may be a genetic trait.
However, they can be intensified if your skin is dehydrated.
Sleep also plays an essential role, as water loss can occur overnight.
Keeping the skin hydrated and prioritising sleep can improve dark circles and your overall complexion.
You may notice plumper and brighter skin with adequate hydration and rest.
Sunken Eyes
Dehydration can potentially cause the skin to look hollow or sunken—one of the first places that may appear sunken are the eyes.
Dehydration can also accentuate the appearance of shadows across the face, contributing to a dull complexion.
Additionally, the skin around our eyes is significantly thinner than in other regions.
Therefore, the eyes can quickly appear sunken due to dehydration.
Other Signs Your Skin Is Dehydrated
The eyes aren’t the only tell-tale sign of dehydrated skin.
For example, you can also analyse the rest of your facial features or skin to catch any changes.
Similar signs around the eyes can appear elsewhere on the face.
Overall, dehydration can increase the appearance of texture and shadows, and even create a lower level of elasticity.
These signs can appear along the forehead, across the cheeks, or even elsewhere on your body.
Texture & Fine Lines
Premature ageing and texture can significantly increase when the skin is dehydrated.
We’ve mentioned how fine lines can easily come to the skin’s surface due to water loss.
However, they can just as easily be treated by focusing on hydration.
Other textural issues that may arise include itchiness or overall dullness.
Maintaining a bright complexion can be challenging when the skin is dehydrated.
It can lead to an older or aged appearance.
Shadows
Dehydration can also cause an increase in shadows.
We’ve mentioned how sunken eyes can be a sign of water loss.
However, you may notice these shadows or sunken areas all across the face.
For example, your cheeks may appear more hollow, or shadows can appear where your bone structure is prominent.
However, you can easily prevent shadows by preventing water loss.
Dull Complexion
Another sign of dehydration will include a generally dull complexion.
For example, your skin may look flat, or dehydration can highlight hyperpigmentation or discolouration.
You may also notice a change in your skin tone, making you appear less lively.
Low Elasticity
Finally, low levels of elasticity can also signify that your skin is dehydrated.
Earlier, we performed a pinch test to assess how your skin bounces back.
If it appears wrinkled or takes time to return to its normal state, it may be a sign of water loss.
Elasticity can refer to the skin’s ability to be pulled or stretched and how it bounces back.
Dehydration may decrease elasticity, which is also crucial for maintaining a youthful complexion.
Low elasticity levels can also lead to signs of premature ageing, all of which are affected by water loss.
How To Treat Dehydrated Skin
Now that we’re aware of all the possible signs of dehydration, how can you treat it?
One of the easiest ways to identify dehydration is by looking around the eye area.
Other signs include fine lines, dullness, or decreased elasticity.
Thankfully, all of these signs are easily treatable with simple adjustments to your lifestyle or skincare routine.
Making a few lifestyle adjustments can help replenish hydration in your skin and body.
With consistency and time, you will notice these dehydration signs disappearing.
Finally, you’ll be able to enjoy a plump, dewy, and bright complexion.
So how can you treat dehydrated skin?
You can make simple diet changes or invest in skin-restoring products.
It’s essential to remember that you can’t treat dehydrated skin the same way as dry skin types.
Drink Water
The most accessible and easiest way to increase hydration is by consuming water.
You’ll want to ensure you’re consuming appropriate levels of water for your body type.
If you’re unsure where to start, consult with your primary care physician.
Water will nourish your body and your skin.
This is a cost-effective way to boost hydration and diminish texture issues if you can’t invest in specific skincare products just yet.
However, it’s just as important not to overconsume water because it will not achieve your desired results and may even deplete the nutrients your body needs.
So, this is another reason why it’s best to consult a doctor.
Eat Water-Rich Foods
Another simple switch is to eat more water-rich foods.
Now you don’t have to revamp your entire diet. Instead, simply adding water-rich foods can boost your overall hydration levels.
It’s always great to focus on adding beneficial foods rather than restricting them.
Fruits and vegetables are accessible and a fantastic source to boost hydration.
For example, you can add melons, strawberries, celery, and peppers to improve water retention.
According to Healthline, “For dehydrated skin, oral hydration is a must because it’s adding water into the complexion from the inside.”
Invest In Skincare
You may also want to incorporate hydrating or repairing skincare products.
For example, humectants are excellent for dehydrated skin because they draw water to the skin’s surface and help retain moisture.
It will be beneficial to focus on ceramides.
Chances are, dehydrated skin can feel itchy or be more prone to having a compromised skin barrier.
One way to keep the skin healthy and intact is by incorporating ceramides.
You may also want to hydrate and moisturise.
For example, you may apply a hyaluronic acid serum followed by a moisturiser.
Then, you can secure everything in place with an occlusive, such as Petroleum Jelly, to help retain moisture.
Use A Hydrating Mist
A hydrating mist can be beneficial for those who are constantly on the go.
For example, if you find yourself looking dull throughout the day, a hydrating mist can quickly add moisture to the skin and help you feel refreshed.
However, it’s crucial to follow your product’s directions for the best results.
For example, you may find out you should only mist the face once or twice a day.
It’s also helpful not to go overboard with a mist. Instead, think of it as a supplemental product.
Products To Help Dehydrated Skin
Are you unsure how to improve your dehydrated skin?
These products and ingredients are generally well-tolerated by all skin types and tones.
They focus on either repairing the skin barrier, locking in hydration, or preventing water loss.
However, it is wise to consult a dermatologist to obtain products and regimens specifically tailored to your needs.
1. Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
Hyaluronic Acid is a popular humectant that draws water to the skin’s surface and prevents moisture loss.
The Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum is non-sticky, fragrance-free, and lightweight on the skin.
This Hyaluronic Acid serum focuses on keeping the skin hydrated, plump, and strengthened.
As a result, you may also notice a healthy glow, and it will prevent signs of premature ageing.
You can incorporate the Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum into your daily routine, using it both day and night, right after cleansing.
2. EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex Face Moisturizer
EltaMD is a well-loved drugstore and pharmaceutical skincare brand.
It’s often recommended by dermatologists.
One product that may benefit dehydrated skin is the Barrier Renewal Complex Face Moisturiser.
This moisturiser contains Hyaluronic Acid and is enhanced with Ceramides.
Its primary goal is to minimise signs of ageing, including fine lines and texture, and promote an even skin tone.
Additionally, ceramides help maintain a healthy skin barrier.
EltaMD recommends using this cream during the day or at night.
3. La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water Face Mist
A hydrating mist can be a fantastic pick-me-up to use throughout the day for dehydrated skin.
La Roche-Posay is known for its famous thermal spring water, which they infuse into most of their products.
It’s also easy for you to use when you’re on the go.
La Roche-Posay states that their mist is packed with antioxidants, including selenium, minerals, and other soothing components.
You can spray this on your face once or twice a day, or use it as a replacement for your toner.
Overall, this product is ideal for dehydrated skin that needs an extra boost of hydration.
The Takeaway
Dehydration can appear on the entire face and body.
However, it can be especially prominent under the eyes.
For example, you may notice an increase in fine lines, wrinkles, low elasticity, and a dull complexion.
Dehydrated skin is a condition that can affect any skin type.
Dehydrated skin and dry skin are not the same.
Dehydration refers to a lack of water, whereas dry skin relates to a lack of oil.
You can treat dehydrated skin by drinking plenty of water, consuming water-rich foods, or incorporating humectants into your skincare routine.
Lastly, always consult a dermatologist to address any concerns you may have.
