Give Your Skin the Hydration It Needs and Deserves
It should not be underestimated how important hydration is for the body. Along with that, it is essential to hydrate the skin because it is the body’s largest organ. People with itchy, dry, and aging skin often do not consume enough water to keep their skin looking as good as possible. Dermatologists agree that one of the best things anyone can do for their skin’s appearance and overall health is to stay hydrated.
The Three Layers of Skin
Everybody’s skin comprises three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. The outer layer, or epidermis, will feel rough and lose elasticity without enough moisture, which comes from hydrating the body. Staying hydrated directly correlates to the skin looking and feeling smoother because the epidermis needs moisture to carry nutrients to the skin’s cells and wash away toxins. Well hydrated skin is less reactive to irritants and germs. If these get through when the skin lacks moisture, it can become irritated, compounding the problem of skin looking unhealthy and making people uncomfortable or self-conscious. The skin may become flaky, itchy, red, and even become inflamed. Those wanting to ward off the signs of aging would do well to ensure they are doing enough to hydrate their skin because dry skin will exaggerate wrinkles and fine lines because the skin cells are shrinking without the proper hydration.
If Drinking More Water Isn’t Your Thing
It is surprising how many people genuinely do not like drinking water. Flavored waters, energy drinks, tea, and soda have made it easy to find other things to drink. However, drinking more water is not the only way to hydrate the skin, which is good news if drinking water isn’t your thing!
Moisturizer – applying moisturizer to your skin immediately after showering helps the skin absorb the moisture while pores are open from the water. There are excellent hydration spray products on the market that are affordable and effective, so if you struggle with dryness during the day, keep a bottle in your car and spritz for a pick me up throughout the day!
Turn Down the Air Conditioner in the Car and House
The thought of turning down the air conditioner in the heat of summer in Georgia may seem unfathomable—and understandably so! However, being mindful of the effects of the air conditioner on your skin allows you to make thoughtful decisions about what temperature to keep your car and home. Air conditioners rob your skin of moisture, and even systems with humidifiers often can’t reach the ideal 30-50 percent humidity levels that keep skin supple and moist.
Keep the Mirrors Clear of Steam During Showers
If your mirrors are steaming up and you can’t see, the water you are using is hot enough to damage your skin and do the opposite of what you may be thinking it is doing. Using too hot water will not moisturize; instead, it harshly washes away the skin’s natural oils and leaves the skin gasping for moisture. Hot water opens up pores but leaves the skin vulnerable – opening pores can be achieved with warm water and does not strip the skin of the oils it needs to stay hydrated. It is not necessary to take a cold shower (unless you enjoy ice baths). Still, a minimum reduction in the temperature will have a direct impact on your skin’s natural hydration recovery after bathing.
You Are What You Eat
Diet is a significant factor in skin health. Doctors support this, and experienced dermatologists agree and have seen it repeatedly. Often, something in the environment or diet is adversely affecting the appearance of a person’s skin, but they have no idea. Beyond the obvious of not only eating processed and junk foods, but incorporating foods rich in essential fatty acids, like olive oil, walnuts, salmon, and pumpkin, your skin will eat up those nutrients and improve your skin’s hydration.
So, besides drinking more water to hydrate your skin, you can do any of the above to help keep your skin looking moist and healthy! Side note – everyone should drink at least six glasses of water a day – your body needs it to function well!
As we are in the throes of summer, taking time to ensure your skin is hydrated will offer a better appearance, and it will make you feel better, too! Dr. Sherrie Straughn is the best dermatologist in Atlanta and works with her patients to get them the results they seek. If you have any skincare concerns or want to learn more about your skin type and how to care for it to keep it supple and young-looking, contact Buckhead Dermatology today for an appointment. When it comes to your skin, it is always worth investing in finding out more and being proactive about caring for your skin. After all, it is the body’s biggest organ!