What is one effect of dehydration on skin integrity?

Dehydration has a significant impact on skin integrity, and one of the primary effects is the decrease in skin elasticity. When the skin lacks adequate hydration, the natural moisture levels essential for maintaining its structure and flexibility are depleted. As a result, the skin becomes less resilient and more prone to sagging and wrinkling.

Elasticity in the skin is largely dependent on the presence of water, which helps to maintain the collagen and elastin fibers responsible for its firmness and suppleness. In conditions of dehydration, these fibers can become stiff and less able to stretch, leading to an overall reduction in the skin's ability to bounce back after being stretched.

Maintaining proper hydration is thus essential for preserving skin elasticity, and a decline in moisture levels can result in visible changes, such as increased creasing and reduced pliability. This is particularly important in the context of wound healing, where optimal skin integrity is crucial for recovery.