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and Health
Your skin deserves the best care it can get, and proper hydration is an essential part of that. Hydrating your skin helps preserve its natural protective barrier and improves its appearance. It can also help your skin stay healthy and beautiful for years to come. To help you get the most out of your hydration routine, we asked expert skin-care professionals to give their advice and lay out the do’s and don’ts for hydrating your skin.
Do: Load Up on Moisturizers and Hydrators
“Moisturization is key,” says renowned dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Chwalek. “Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. These ingredients work by attracting water to the surface of skin and creating a better environment for skin health and moisture retention.” Dr. Chwalek also suggests looking for topical skin-care products that contain vitamin B, which helps the skin retain moisture, and vitamin E, which can help protect the skin from environmental damage.
Don’t: Over-Cleanse Your Skin
It may be tempting to over-cleanse and scrub your skin, but that can strip away natural oils and cause dryness. “Be gentle with your skin by avoiding harsh cleansers, especially ones containing alcohol,” says aesthetician Joelle Ciaburri. “Use lukewarm water and, if possible, avoid overheated baths and showers, as these can strip the skin of vital, natural oils.”
Do: Hydrate from the Inside Out
It’s not just topical skin-care products that help keep your skin hydrated — your diet can play a role, too. “Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat plenty of foods with high-water content, like fruits, vegetables, soups, and stews,” says dietitian Holly Joven. “Eating a balanced diet composed of whole-grain carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats will also help keep your skin healthy and hydrated.”
Don’t: Forget Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin against harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage, accelerated aging, and even skin cancer. Everyone should be using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily, regardless of the season. Make sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Do: Listen to Your Skin
Your skin is unique, so it’s important to listen to it and adjust your skin-care routine accordingly. “If your skin is feeling dry, you may need to add in an extra moisturizer or serum in the evening,” says Ciaburri. “Just remember to be gentle, and never use products that contain harsh chemicals.”
Conclusion
By following these do’s and don’ts for hydration, you can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Don’t forget the basics like moisturizers, hydrators, and sunscreen, and make it a point to drink enough water and eat hydrating foods. Plus, be sure to listen to your skin and adjust your skin-care routine accordingly.
Keywords: Skin Care, Hydrate Skin, Moisturizers, Hydrators, Sunscreen, Broad-spectrum Sunscreen, Vitamin B, Vitamin E, Healthy Diet, Hydrating Foods, Water
