How to hydrate the skin, according to dermatologists and nutritionists

news7g05/24/2022

3 4 minutes read

How to hydrate the skin, according to dermatologists and nutritionists

Something I think about more than I want is one of these 30 Lessons Taylor Swift Learned before turning 30. There are many interesting things in self-written work Elle features, but also some random clunkers. Oddly enough, it was a lesson in how to effectively hydrate the skin that was actually stuck. “…I now apply body lotion after showering, not only in winter but all year round, because, why can’t I stay soft in all seasons?!” No offense, but Taylor, my girl, didn’t you use lotion in the summer? You would think that the writer who wrote “drought is the worst” would know how to moisturize the skin.

Sure, we can associate chapped skin with winter, but dry skin can strike at any time — and in any season. In particular, dehydrated skin is limitless. Luckily, if it’s dehydration you’re dealing with, it’s often a lot easier to treat than regular old dry skin.

“Dehydrated skin is a lack of water and is often a condition, not a skin type, like dry skin,” says Karen Fernandeztop esthetician at SkinSpirit. “Dehydration is overcome on a more superficial level — drinking mineral water or using hyaluronic acid serum will instantly soothe and hydrate. ”

And while I’m trying for a quick fix (I like a good spritz), I wanted to learn how to hydrate my skin from the inside out. So in addition to Fernandez and board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Dendy EnglemanI also tapped the holistic nutritionists Edie Horstman and Mia Rigden for a strategic guide to whole body hydration.

Featured image of Riley Blanks Reed

But first, what exactly is the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin?

Although dry and dehydrated skin often look similar, they are not the same. The difference concerns water and oil.

“Dry skin naturally produces less oil and is more prone to dryness most of the time,” explains Fernandez. Dehydration can be caused by conditions like weather, dry air, lack of drinking water, or taking too much diuretics like caffeine.”

What are the signs of dehydrated skin?

Although different, dry and dehydrated skin still look somewhat similar. Luckily, Fernandez has an easy test to make sure it’s a temporary problem.

“The ‘dehydration test’ is when you push your skin up or close together (especially in the cheek area) and it looks very loose and thin or full of wrinkles – it’s very likely,” says the esthetician. already dehydrated.” “On the other hand, hydrated skin will look plump and firm when compressed.”

Dr. Engleman stresses the importance of dealing with dehydrated skin, which can also manifest as pale skin, dark circles or poor product absorption. “Dehydrated skin can also exacerbate early signs of aging,” she adds. “Moisture gives our skin the plumpness, plumpness and even texture we associate with youthful skin.”

What foods and drinks are helpful for skin hydration?

“Dehydrated skin can be caused by nutrient deficiencies, including vitamins A, C, D or E, zinc, selenium or omega-3 fatty acids,” says Rigden.

Horstman researches some of the best skin moisturizers to help restore your health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acidss Walnuts, seeds, fatty fish and monounsaturated/polyunsaturated fats are found in avocados, pumpkin seeds, pecans, almonds, hazelnuts and olives.
Vitamin C Citrus or bell peppers strengthen the skin barrier function and help reduce water loss.
Vitamin D Cod liver oil.
Selenium Brazil nuts.
Antioxidants Berries and green tea.
Zinc Pumpkin seeds.

What lifestyle habits can help keep skin hydrated?

All of our experts agree on one habit first and foremost: drink water. Even if you add a few watery fruitProper hydration is key to keeping skin balanced.

A few less obvious habits, however, include adding a humidifier in your home, making sure you get enough sleep, avoiding hot baths or showers, exfoliating (gently!) and limiting stress, maybe affect your electrolyte levels. “The fluid balance in the body translates into electrolytes, which include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphate and chloride,” explains Rigden. “Too much or too little of any of these nutrients can affect your overall fluid balance.”

Knowing how to tailor your skin care routine to the needs of your skin or environment is another useful skill for avoiding dehydrated skin.

“If you notice your skin appears dehydrated, use gentler measures that don’t make it flakey (like double cleansing) and incorporate more hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. (can hold 1,000 times its weight in water),” Dr. Engleman adds.

Previously, we covered some of the best moisturizing skin care products to mix into your routine.

Camille Styles skincare_ how to hydrate the skin — *The picture of* *Kristen Kilpatrick*

What skin care ingredients are best for dehydrated skin?

Before diving into product recommendations on how to hydrate skin, let’s break down exactly what our skincare experts are looking for.

Humectant One of the most prominent humectants in skin care is hyaluronic acid, which helps skin retain moisture.
Emotional substance Emollients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, or oils help soften the skin.
Occlusives According to Dr. Engleman, glycerin acts as a barrier to prevent water loss in the skin.
Ceramides is another key ingredient that helps rebuild and protect the skin’s epidermis and prevents local water loss, according to Fernandez.

Rehydrating after a shower may seem like a no-brainer, but do you have any tips on how to do it right?

“It is very beneficial to apply a moisturizer after bathing when the skin is still slightly damp,” says Dr. Engleman. “Your moisturizer might work better this way because when the skin is moist, it hydrates and some skin care products like lotion have a moisturizing function. In addition, the steam from a warm shower helps to dilate pores and allow skin care products to penetrate deeper. . ”