Have you heard about this one? It’s a quick, easy skin test to see if you are dehyrated or not, and TikTokers are sharing their results. It’s a simple skin pinch test, also known as the skin turgor test. This TikTok trend started when Dr. Karan Raj posted a video doing the test. And Dr. Raj doesn’t just play a doctor on TikTok, he is actually a surgical doctor with the National Health Service, in the UK, according to Today Show article.
Most of us don’t get our medical advice from TikTok, but this one makes sense. You lose elasticity in your skin, when you are dehydrated. Of course our bodies give us other signs that we need more water, like dry mouth, lips and eyes, the color of our urine, dizziness , fatigue, muscle cramps and headaches, according to WebMD.
So, lets get to the test!
@dr.karanr Dehydration check @remus.bujor #schoolwithdrkaran #SimlishSessions #WorkThisWay #learnontiktok
♬ Steven Universe - L.Dre
Who Is Not A Good Candidate For the Pinch Test?
Cassetty cautioned that, “One issue with this test is that older people have less elastic skin, so when pinched, it remains tented for a more extended period of time. This doesn’t necessarily indicate dehydration.” She also warned that this test is as trustworthy in kids. among other groups, like those with certain skin conditions.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
If you’re not feeling well, especially with the extreme heat we’ve had lately experts say to watch for the signs of dehydration, with the skin pinch test, but also watching for earlier signs like dry mouth and fatique. Cassetty says, “If there’s a chance you’re even slightly dehydrated, it’s a good idea to drink more fluids. If you’re significantly dehydrated, you might benefit from an electrolyte drink designed to help you absorb and retain fluid better than drinking plain water.”
