Chameleon skin is not permeable by water

Chameleon skin is not penetrable by water. This unique trait is advantageous in regions with minimal rainfall as it helps chameleons prevent water loss. By effectively isolating water from their skin, chameleons can conserve precious hydration in arid environments where water sources are scarce. This adaptation enables them to thrive in habitats with low humidity levels and limited access to water, showcasing their remarkable ability to adapt to diverse and challenging conditions. Furthermore, by maintaining a barrier against water penetration, chameleons can optimize their physiological processes and survival strategies, highlighting the remarkable evolutionary adaptations of these fascinating reptiles.

The chameleon skin prevents the water from getting into the body 

AND

it prevents the loss of the water already inside

IT MEANS

it is not penetrable by water either way, it can not resorb water in any form.

In captivity, we need to keep the chameleons in an environment, allowing them to maintain homeostasis at a good level of hydration.

The main sources of natural hydration in the wild are:

food (feeders contain 30-90% of water) and 

nighttime fog 

- not drinking, as most people would assume. 

As the fogging can be executed safely only at low nighttime temperatures below 65°F, which is what many peoples are not capable of, or ready to achieve for technical or financial purposes, the nighttime fogging falls off and chameleons must be provided liquid water to drink as a compensation mechanism, which they eagerly, except. However, it does not stay without harmful consequences in many cases (intestinal disorders, weak concentration of body liquids, hyperhydration, hyponatremia, nausea, muscle cramps etc.).

It makes no sense to soak chameleons in water, and it makes also no sense to spray them with water. 

This might be even harmful in the case of shedding. The moistened exuvia can get stuck during the drying process on the new proliferating skin, and cause anything from light discomfort to serious fungal and bacterial infections or dangerous constrictions of the extremities and tail.

Do not spray on chameleons, especially when they are undergoing the process of shedding!