Your skin is the largest organ of your body. However, a very little effort is put into taking care of it, wouldn’t you agree? It is important to know that skincare goes beyond buying expensive creams and lotions or having a consistent skincare routine. Your diet, exercise routine, lifestyle habits, all play a key role in maintaining your skin health. What is also essential is to make sure that your skin is well-hydrated and rejuvenated. But is drinking water the ultimate solution? Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vibhuti Dhaundiyal, an aesthetic physician, RV LUXE Clinic, Noida, sheds light on the same.
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Is There A Link Between Drinking Water And Improved Skin Health?
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Does drinking water really improve skin quality? The debate is ongoing and while many believe it to be true, there is no solid evidence to prove the same. A small study published by the Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology did however suggest that there in fact is a relationship between drinking water and skin health. Researchers found that people with low daily water-intake experienced a positive effect on the skin appearance and hydration levels once they increased their water-intake. But the study added that people who're already well-hydrated may not see any results even if they drank beyond the healthy balance of hydration.
Dr Dhaundiyal on the other hand said, "Drinking water to directly hydrate the skin and improve skin health is definitely a myth. While water is important for overall hydration and health, it doesn't have a direct impact on skin hydration.” According to the doctor, water consumed is absorbed into the bloodstream, benefiting cells throughout the body, including the skin. However, the skin is the last organ to receive these benefits.
“To effectively hydrate the skin, topical moisturisers and hydrating products are necessary. These products contain ingredients that penetrate the skin, sealing in moisture and preventing dehydration. While water intake is important, it's not a standalone solution for skin hydration. A comprehensive approach to skincare, including external hydration with moisturisers and good skincare habits, is essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin,” she added.
Benefits Of Water For Your Skin
In general, drinking water ensures proper hydration, supports digestion, removes toxins from the body, and aids in overall bodily functions. It lubricates joints, cushions organs, and supports the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to cells. Furthermore, it aids in the removal of waste products, supports a healthy immune system, and helps maintain a healthy blood pressure. Overall, water is vital for optimal health and well-being, including the skin.
Skin hydration
Water improves the overall hydration in the body, which includes the skin. Therefore, proper hydration keeps the skin soft, supple, and plump. When the skin is well-hydrated, it is less prone to dryness, flakiness, and irritation.
Nourishment
Water is said to provide essential nutrients to the skin cells, promoting their health and vitality. It aids in the absorption of nutrients from food, ensuring that the skin receives the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for optimal function.
Cleansing and detoxification
Drinking water helps flush out toxins from the body, including those that can affect the skin. It supports the natural detoxification processes of the body, improving the appearance of the skin and preventing blemishes and breakouts.
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Maintaining pH balance
The skin has a natural pH balance, which is slightly acidic. Water helps maintain this balance by neutralising the skin's pH and preventing it from becoming too alkaline or acidic. Balanced pH levels are crucial for healthy skin function and can help prevent various skin issues.
Improved elasticity
Proper hydration from water helps maintain the skin's elasticity. It supports the production of collagen, a protein that provides support to the skin.
Enhancing skin radiance
Hydrated skin tends to have a natural radiance and glow. Water helps improve blood circulation, which can result in a healthier complexion.
Bottomline
Ensuring proper hydration levels is essential for skin health, and increasing water intake can be beneficial. However, if you already meet the recommended daily water intake and maintain sufficient hydration, additional water-consumption may not necessarily improve your skin's health or appearance.
Nevertheless, you can refresh your skin-care routine by incorporating hydration through exfoliation and applying a serum enriched with effective ingredients immediately after. Furthermore, supporting your skin's hydration can be achieved by avoiding hot water exposure, increasing consumption of water-rich foods, and even using a humidifier at home.