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Does Skin Lose Water?

Published in Skin Hydration 2 mins read

Yes, skin loses water. This process, known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), happens constantly throughout the day, but accelerates at night. The average person loses approximately 300-400ml of water through their skin daily. This is a significant amount and highlights the importance of hydration for maintaining healthy skin.

Understanding Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)

TEWL is the evaporation of water from the skin's surface. Several factors influence the rate of TEWL, including:

Dehydration and Skin

Excessive water loss through the skin, coupled with inadequate fluid intake, can lead to dehydration. Dehydration manifests in various ways, including dry skin and reduced skin turgor (the skin's ability to snap back after being pinched). (Skin turgor: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, Dehydration: Symptoms & Causes)

Maintaining Skin Hydration

To compensate for daily TEWL, it's crucial to maintain adequate hydration by drinking sufficient water and using moisturizers to help retain moisture within the skin. (How to Tell if Your Skin Is Dehydrated - DMSI, Water, Hydration and Health - PMC)