Reasons to keep your skin hydrated
Not only does our skin cover up our muscles and veins, it also acts as a protective barrier to isolate the body from contaminating agents that surround it. Despite this, the skin is a very fine and sensitive part of our bodies, and keeping it hydrated is extremely important for healthy skin and to allow it to function efficiently and effectively.
A well-hydrated skin is flexible and resistant, allowing better protection of our body to aggressors that may affect its natural balance. Due to the factors that we expose ourselves to on a daily basis, the natural mechanism of hydration by our skin itself is not enough, and it is crucial we do our part to help avoid further dryness, cracking or peeling of the skin.
Especially as we age, the sebaceous glands become increasingly less active and therefore lose its ability to retain water causing the skin to become dry more easily. External factors that can cause dryness of the skin include climate, heat, sunlight, air conditioning or any which facilitate the evaporation of water such as alcohol or tobacco.
Bad hydration, or the lack of it, is a key cause of the appearance of wrinkles, skin blemishes, cellulite and flaccidity – the four factors any skin-conscious individual would be fearful of.
Ways to hydrate the skin
1. Hydrate from the inside: drink water & maintain a balanced diet
It is important to drink a minimum of 1.5 litres of water a day as water is essential to both our skin and functioning of the body. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids, silica-rich and antioxidant-rich foods also help hydrate the skin, examples include fish, nuts, avocados, sweet potato, oysters, olive oil and cucumber. Omega-3 fatty acids help strengthen the skin barrier while antioxidants help repair tissue damage and prevent premature aging.
2. Use moisturising products
Moisturising creams and serums are popular products for skin hydration, however it is important to select one which is suitable for your skin type, it is not always a one size fits all. Regardless of whether it is oily skin, dry skin or a combination skin, there will always be a product in the market well-targeted and suited for the specific skin type. If you are unsure of your skin type, it is recommended to consult a specialist.
3. Try a face oil
If your skin is relatively dry, using a simple moisturiser may not be enough. Incorporating an oil into your skin care routine is a good addition, such as jojoba oil, rosehip oil or argan oil which are all very popular oils for skin hydration with low comedogenic rates and easy absorption into the skin.
Related product: Hydration Drops – Argan, Rosehip and Strawberry Face Oil
4. Follow a facial cleansing routine
Cleansing is an important process in skin care. Cleansing preps the skin and therefore helps any moisturising products to better penetrate the skin, maximising its moisturising effects. It is key to also select a cleanser which is not too harsh and does not completely dry out your skin, but still able to effectively cleanse the skin.