People with dry, itchy, aging skin often do not drink enough water to keep the skin healthy and soft. One of the most important things you can do for your skin’s health and appearance is to stay hydrated. Your skin is made up of three layers: the outer layer (epidermis), the underlying skin (dermis), and the subcutaneous tissue. When the outermost layer of your skin does not contain enough moisture, the skin will lose its elasticity and feel rough.
Staying hydrated will rejuvenate your skin so it looks and feels smooth and soft. This is due to the fact that the outermost layer of the skin has the moisture it needs to flush away toxins and carry nutrients to the skin’s cells. Skin that is well-hydrated also is less sensitive to irritants and germs that can slip through the lipid barrier when the skin lacks moisture.
Skin that is lacking the hydration it needs often becomes itchy, flaky, red, or even inflamed. Dry skin can even exaggerate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to shrinkage of skin cells.
More Ways To Keep Your Skin Hydrated
In addition to drinking plenty of water (between 6 and 8 glasses a day), there are a few more ways you can help your skin maintain the moisture it needs including:
Use A Moisturizer – Applying a moisturizer to your skin a few minutes after showering or bathing will help your skin absorb lost moisture while your pores are open.
Eat Foods Rich In Essential Fatty Acids – By eating foods rich in essential fatty acids like salmon, olive oil, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds, you can help keep your skin healthy and rejuvenated by improving your skin’s hydration levels.
Use Warm Water For Bathing & Showering – You could be robbing your skin of the moisture it needs to be healthy and soft by taking baths and showers in very hot water. By simply lowering the temperature of the water, you can help your skin stay hydrated.
Turn Down The Air-Conditioner & Furnace – Your home could be depleting your skin of the hydration it needs as well. For instance, your air-conditioning during the summer months and your furnace during the winter could be stealing moisture from your skin to leave it dry, itchy, and irritated. The optimal humidity level that promotes healthy skin is between 30 and 50 percent. If need be, turn down your air conditioner and/or heater to help keep your skin moist and supple.
Have A Question? Give Us A Call!
Our practice is proud to offer a comprehensive range of general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology services to patients of all ages living in Sewell and the surrounding communities. Whether you need sun spot treatment or are interested in chemical peels, we can meet all your skin care needs! Contact us today at (856) 589-3331 to schedule your next appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
