Whether it's summer, winter, or any time in between, hydration is essential for healthy skin for every skin type. It plays a significant role in maintaining skin elasticity, encouraging cell renewal, and fortifying the skin barrier, which contributes to a glowing complexion, plumpness, smooth appearance, and helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Keeping your skin hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy balance of natural oils, which can help prevent both dryness and excessive oiliness that may lead to acne. There are easy ways to ensure your skin stays hydrated. Continue reading for valuable tips and product recommendations.
1. Hydrating and Moisturizing Ingredients
Keeping the skin hydrated can be achieved by using moisturizing ingredients like humectants, emollients, and occlusives.
- Humectants, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, propanediol, and panthenol (vitamin B5), serve as effective hydrators by drawing moisture from the air into the skin's top layer, known as the stratum corneum.
- Emollients, which consist of natural elements like aloe vera and botanical oils, act as moisturizers that enrich your skin with fatty acids, leaving it feeling softer and smoother.
- Occlusives, such as plant-derived oils, natural waxes, and butters, act as moisturizers that create a barrier on your skin, helping to lock in moisture and prevent dehydration.
Product Recommendations: Essence Face Mist, Nourish Face Cream, Brighten + Correct Face Serum, Day LEIGH Face Serum, Night LEIGH Face Serum
2. Hydrating Essence
A skin care essence is a light, hydrating formula usually used after cleansing and toning, but before applying serums and moisturizers. These essences are rich in humectants that provide deep hydration and restore moisture to the skin. They also prepare the skin for better absorption, allowing the active ingredients in serums and creams to penetrate more effectively. Additionally, essences can help fortify the skin's barrier and help alleviate irritation. Give yourself a refreshing spritz during the day for an instant pick-me-up, perfect for revitalizing your skin and uplifting your mood.
Product Recommendation: Essence Face Mist
3. Avoid Hot Showers
Many people find a hot shower to be a great way to relax, but the heat can strip away the skin's natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Using lukewarm water can help keep your skin calm and protected, and gently patting your skin dry with a towel can further prevent moisture loss.
4. Sufficient Sleep
Rising early can have its benefits, but if your goal is to enhance the healing of your skin's moisture barrier, prioritizing sleep is crucial, specifically, aiming for 8 to 9 hours of restorative sleep. This is when your skin actively repairs itself and restores moisture. More and better sleep can significantly enhance the recovery of your skin's moisture barrier. According to a 2014 studyü, individuals who enjoyed high-quality sleep saw a 30 percent improvement in moisture barrier recovery within 72 hours compared to those with poor sleep. Aim for at least 8 to 9 hours of sleep to facilitate your skin's healing process.
5. Internal Hydration
Make it a goal to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as this benefits both your body and skin. Your skin consists of 30 percent water, so prioritizing hydration is essential, particularly if you don’t typically drink much water. This can help reduce water loss and boost your skin’s hydrationü. Try to reduce your intake of dehydrating beverages like coffee, alcohol, and sugary drinks, as they can lead to dehydration. Focus on a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to help keep your skin well-hydrated.
To establish lasting hydrating skin care routines, try adding one or two new habits at a time. Additionally, plan a weekly menu packed with skin-nourishing ingredients and invest in a water bottle to motivate yourself to drink more water.
If you are interested in creating a customized skincare regimen, consider scheduling a complimentary skincare consultation with Kristy L. Biede, the founder of Organic LEIGH.