Written by: Ffion Collins
Before you look into expensive creams and specialized skin treatments, remember that the secret to clear skin might be the water in your glass. The beauty aisle isn’t the only place to look for solutions—water, the most basic and essential element of life, plays a crucial role in keeping your skin healthy and radiant. From flushing out toxins to maintaining elasticity, proper hydration is one of the simplest ways to support both your skin and your overall health.
Science supports the benefits of water, which is essential for keeping skin clear and healthy (1). Drinking enough water helps the body rid itself of impurities, lowering the chance of clogged pores, which can lead to acne and other imperfections. Additionally, water helps maintain the skin’s natural oil balance, preventing excessive dryness or oiliness—both of which can contribute to breakouts. Proper hydration also improves blood circulation, ensuring that skin cells receive vital nutrients and promoting faster cell turnover. This process aids in the skin’s self-repair, reducing redness and inflammation while encouraging a smoother, more radiant complexion.
Your body also produces more collagen when it is properly hydrated, keeping your skin supple and reducing the appearance of fine lines and scars (1). In a nutshell, water cleanses and rejuvenates your skin from the inside out, giving you a bright, natural glow. On the other hand, dehydration can make your skin appear more wrinkled and aged than it actually is. It also reduces elasticity and plumpness, leading to a sagging appearance. Keeping your skin properly hydrated helps maintain a youthful look.
Drinking at least eight glasses of water per day is recommended to keep your skin moisturized and functioning at its best (2). Carrying a reusable water bottle is an easy way to ensure you drink enough water throughout the day. With stylish designs that fit into backpack pockets and collapsible handles that attach to bags, water bottles make hydration more convenient.
How Else Can You Stay Hydrated?
Sometimes, drinking eight glasses of water a day can be difficult due to a busy schedule or simple forgetfulness. Here are other ways to stay hydrated:
Eat Hydrating Foods
Certain foods have a high water content, providing your body with an extra source of hydration. In fact, about 20% of your daily water intake comes from the foods you eat. Raw fruits and vegetables tend to have the highest water content, supplying essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while boosting hydration. Some of the best hydrating foods include cucumbers, watermelon, strawberries, lettuce, and tomatoes (3).
Infused Water
For those who don’t enjoy the taste of plain water, infused water is a great alternative! It’s made by mixing water with fruits, vegetables, herbs, or other natural ingredients to enhance flavor while adding beneficial nutrients. These extra nutrients can also support healthier skin.
Limit Dehydrating Drinks
Research is mixed on the hydrating effects of various beverages. While all liquids contribute to hydration, some may be more beneficial than others (4). Drinks such as soda, energy drinks, and coffee can contribute to dehydration. By minimizing your intake of these beverages and choosing more hydrating options, you can help your skin stay moisturized and clear.
By making hydration a priority, you can support your skin’s natural glow and overall well-being.
Image Source: Pexels
References:
“10 Amazing Skin Benefits From Drinking More Water.” The Maryland Institute of Plastic Surgery, https://www.mdinstituteplasticsurgery.com/10-amazing-skin-benefits-from-drinking-more-water/.
Palma, Lídia et al. “Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics.” Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology vol. 8 413-21. 3 Aug. 2015, doi:10.2147/CCID.S86822
“15 foods that help you stay hydrated.” UCLA Health, 17 June 2022, https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/15-food-that-help-you-stay-hydrated.
Tinsley, Grant. “Do Some Drinks Cause Dehydration?” Healthline, 7 March 2022, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dehydrating-drinks#coee-tea-soda.
Disclaimer: This organization's content is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health-related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this website should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional.
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