Published on Jun 22, 2022 | 3:03 PM
Share Article :
As summer temperatures rise, staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking enough water—it’s also about protecting and hydrating your skin. Heat, sun exposure, sweat, and increased washing can all compromise the skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and accelerated signs of aging. Taking the right steps to support skin hydration is essential for both skin health and long-term damage prevention.
Dehydrated skin lacks water (not oil) and can occur even in people with oily or acne-prone skin. Common signs include:
Skin that feels tight or less plump
Redness, irritation, or itchiness
Flakiness or rough texture
Fine lines appearing more noticeable
Dry skin does not always mean you are systemically dehydrated, but adequate fluid intake still supports overall skin function and healing.
If your skin is already dehydrated, dermatologists recommend focusing on barrier repair and moisture retention:
Use gentle, fragrance-free products
Choose cleansers that are soap-free and non-stripping
Apply moisturizer immediately after washing to seal in water
Avoid over-exfoliation, which worsens dehydration
Moisturizers work by locking in existing moisture, which is why application timing matters. Applying lotion or cream right after bathing or cleansing is one of the most effective hydration strategies.
Seasonal adjustments are also important:
Warm, humid climates: lighter lotions, gels, or oil-free moisturizers
Dry or air-conditioned environments: creams with ceramides or humectants
Helpful product tips:
Choose fragrance-free formulas to reduce irritation
Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter, or squalane
For acne-prone skin, use oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers
Limit hot showers; use lukewarm water
Avoid using soap on the entire body (use soap mainly on the face, armpits, groin, and feet)
Moisturize immediately after showering or shaving
Use hydrating shaving creams or gels
Opt for lighter products such as lotions, gels, or oils in summer
Moisturize at least once daily (twice if skin is dry)
Use a humidifier in dry indoor environments
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables; omega-3s (such as fish oil) may support skin health
Drink water consistently throughout the day
If you’re dealing with persistent dry, itchy, irritated, or inflamed skin, professional evaluation may be helpful.
With Call-On-Doc, you can receive online dermatology care without long waits or in-person visits:
Select your skin concern
Upload photos securely
Answer a few health questions
Receive a personalized treatment plan
Most dermatology visits are $39.99, with subscription plans available for conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and chronic dry skin. Prescriptions are sent to your pharmacy the same day—no insurance or appointment required.
Take care of your skin this summer with expert help, whenever you need it.
updated 1/13/2026 by Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
Common Pregnancy and Postpartum Skin and Hair Changes
Hormonal changes during pregnancy do more than support your baby’s growth—they also trigger noticeable changes in your skin and hair. The three primary hormones involved—progesterone, estrogen, and androgens (including testosterone)—shift continuously throughout pregnancy and postpartum. These changing levels operate through complex hormonal feedback loops between the mother, placenta, and fetus to keep both healthy.
May 04, 2022 | 10:44 AM
Read More
The Basics about Acne
Whether you experience the occasional blemish or frequent breakouts, acne can be frustrating and embarrassing at any age—from the teenage years through adulthood. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, and it can affect both physical comfort and self-confidence.
The dermatologists at Call-On-Doc aim to help you understand what type of acne you have, what’s causing it, and which treatments are most appropriate for your skin.
Dec 30, 2021 | 10:46 AM
Read More
Is Hair Loss Permanent?
Whether you’re just beginning to notice hair thinning or wondering whether hair loss treatments actually work, understanding the cause of hair loss and your treatment options is the first step. While there are several types of hair loss, most cases follow predictable patterns—and many are treatable when addressed early.
Jun 14, 2024 | 3:00 PM
Read More
Common Pregnancy and Postpartum Skin and Hair Changes
Hormonal changes during pregnancy do more than support your baby’s growth—they also trigger noticeable changes in your skin and hair. The three primary hormones involved—progesterone, estrogen, and androgens (including testosterone)—shift continuously throughout pregnancy and postpartum. These changing levels operate through complex hormonal feedback loops between the mother, placenta, and fetus to keep both healthy.
May 04, 2022 | 10:44 AM
The Basics about Acne
Whether you experience the occasional blemish or frequent breakouts, acne can be frustrating and embarrassing at any age—from the teenage years through adulthood. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, and it can affect both physical comfort and self-confidence.
The dermatologists at Call-On-Doc aim to help you understand what type of acne you have, what’s causing it, and which treatments are most appropriate for your skin.
Dec 30, 2021 | 10:46 AM
Is Hair Loss Permanent?
Whether you’re just beginning to notice hair thinning or wondering whether hair loss treatments actually work, understanding the cause of hair loss and your treatment options is the first step. While there are several types of hair loss, most cases follow predictable patterns—and many are treatable when addressed early.
Jun 14, 2024 | 3:00 PM
Feedback from our amazing patients!
"I can’t believe I did not know about this kind of service! This was absolutely perfect for my health concern and they were able to provide me with the necessary medication and with such cinch. Completely recommended this service. For minor health concerns, this can save you an unnecessary and costly trip to an urgent care center."
"Amazing!! Easy and fast! I didn’t have to take my 4 year old into an urgent care where only god knows what germs are there. The doctor sent the script right to my pharmacy within minutes!!!"
"I would give 10 stars if I could! CallonDoc is literally the reason I am recovering instead of suffering as I write this. I was skeptical at first, but I’m not kidding when I tell you I got prescribed my antibiotics and picked it up at the pharmacy within 2 hours. So instead of waiting & paying around 300$...I paid 40$!! I’m very pleased."
Be the first to know when we offer deals.
Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?