As your skin is made up of 30% water, keeping it hydrated is essential for maintaining a rejuvenated complexion that looks smooth and feels soft. There’s a lot more to it than this, however, as plenty of moisture in the skin is important for its overall functioning and health.
Generally, it’s the top and middle layers of the skin that will be impacted when it’s lacking in hydration. The outermost layer (epidermis) needs moisture to flush out toxins and transport nutrients to the skin’s cells.
Hydrated skin cells will remain plump and bunch together, ensuring the complexion looks smooth and fresh. When the skin’s cells become dehydrated they shrink which leads to the dull, rough, flaky complexion that’s characteristic of dry skin. Cellular turnover is one function of the skin that is required for a healthy revitalised complexion. This process will naturally slow down as the ageing process plays out, and dehydrated skin can contribute to this process slowing down even more. The skin needs to expel and replenish dead skin cells on the surface to maintain smooth and supple properties.
Essential substances, such as collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid rely on high levels of moisture so their production does not slow down too quickly or prematurely. It’s the loss of these substances that cause the development of age-related concerns (wrinkles and volume loss). Also, moisture in the skin will bind with HA (hyaluronic acid) to create volume in the skin’s cells, and an overall plumper look to the skin.
How can I maintain hydration in the skin?
There are a number of ways to keep the skin hydrated which will need to be considered on a daily basis.
- Drinking plenty of water (6-8 glasses / 2 litres a day) is the simplest way to maintain hydration in the body, and the skin.
- Appling a suitable moisturising cream / lotion everyday should be part of a daily skincare routine. It will only take a few moments and will also help to ensure the surface layer maintains its protective barrier, as well as locking in moisture. The addition of a hyaluronic acid serum is a great way to enhance skin health and improve the skin’s elasticity.
- Turning down the thermostat will help to reduce dryness in the air, which impacts the dryness of the skin.
- As well as water the skin needs nutrition, and foods that are high in fatty acids (such as oily fish, nuts and seeds) will improve hydration levels in the skin.
- Using hot water to shower or bathe in will strip the skin of moisture, causing it to dry out. Our advice would be to wash using warm water, applying a moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp.
At Face Medical we help many patients improve the look and feel of their skin. Our experts provide great advice to those looking to tackle dry skin and its associated concerns. Through the use of suitable skincare products we can optimise the skin’s health, and enhance its overall texture and tone. Supporting our recommended skincare regime with an in-clinic treatment (such as the hydrofacial) can help to achieve even greater results.