<![CDATA[River-dependent communities may experience impaired skin hydration because exposure to bathing water with unsuitable physicochemical characteristics can disrupt the epidermal barrier. This study examined the pH characteristics of Batang Empu River water, described residents’ skin hydration levels, and evaluated the association between water pH and skin hydration. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Muara Batang Empu Village, South Sumatra, from December 2025 to January 2026. A total of 211 residents were recruited through consecutive non-random sampling. River-water pH was measured at four locations and four time points, while skin hydration was assessed and classified into five categories. Participant characteristics and hygiene-related behaviors were collected using questionnaires. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and Pearson’s chi-square test. Mean water pH values across the four locations ranged from 6.26 to 6.45. Among participants, 24.6% experienced severe dehydration, 19.0% had inadequate hydration, 20.4% had optimal hydration, and 18.0% each had good or excellent hydration. Water pH was significantly associated with skin hydration (p = 0.02), whereas age (p = 0.54) and sex (p = 0.67) were not significantly associated. River-water pH was associated with residents’ skin hydration, highlighting the importance of improved water-quality monitoring and preventive skin-health education.]]>
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