3 Signs That the Skin Barrier Weakens During Ramadan Fasting, Skin Becomes Drier and More Sensitive

During fasting, the body undergoes various metabolic changes as an adaptation to changes in eating patterns and fluid intake that can affect skin health. Dermatologist Dr. Arlene Rainamira, SpDVE, explained that during fasting the skin also adapts to these changes, including changes in nutrition intake, fluids, and body metabolism. ‘It turns out that when we fast, the body undergoes metabolic adaptation and the skin also adapts,’ she said at the Sensatia Ramadan Pure Moments event in Central Jakarta, Thursday (5 March 2026). Additionally, reduced fluid intake during the day can affect the level of skin hydration. ‘When fluid intake is reduced, especially during the day, the skin begins to show signs that it is dehydrated or ’thirsty’,’ Dr. Arlene explained. This dehydration condition can affect the function of the skin barrier, the outer protective layer of the skin that serves to keep it moisturised as well as protect the skin from various irritants. When the skin barrier is compromised, the skin becomes more prone to various problems. ‘The most common is xerosis or dry skin. So on the legs or fingertips we usually start to feel dry,’ Dr. Arlene explained. Dry skin also often feels stiff after washing the face or body. In some people, this condition can also be accompanied by quite bothersome itching. The skin may appear more easily reddened or react to certain factors, such as weather changes, skincare products, or sun exposure. This condition can also trigger inflammatory reactions in the skin.