From the Guidelines
Drinking water is essential for overall bodily functions, including skin hydration, but its direct impact on skin hydration is modest and should be combined with other skincare practices for optimal results. Adequate water intake ensures the body has enough fluid to maintain skin hydration from within, supporting its barrier function and elasticity 1. The general daily recommendations for healthy women and men are ∼2.7 L (91 oz) and ∼3.7 L (125 oz) of total water, respectively, which can be achieved through a combination of water, other beverages, and food 1. However, drinking water alone isn't enough for complete skin care, as the skin's outermost layer doesn't receive direct hydration from consumed water, making topical moisturizers necessary to prevent water loss from the skin surface.
Some key points to consider for optimal skin hydration include:
- Drinking enough water to meet individual needs, adjusting based on activity level, climate, and other factors 1
- Using topical moisturizers to prevent water loss from the skin surface
- Limiting hot showers, which can strip the skin of its natural oils
- Using a humidifier in dry environments to maintain a healthy moisture level in the air
- Protecting the skin from harsh weather conditions, such as extreme cold or sun exposure
It's also important to note that while drinking water is crucial for overall health, including skin health, the skin's hydration is also influenced by other factors such as the use of nonsoap cleansers and the application of bland emollients after bathing, which can help improve skin hydration and skin barrier function 1. Therefore, a comprehensive approach to skin care, including adequate water intake, proper skincare practices, and protection from environmental stressors, is necessary for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin.
From the Research
Skin Hydration and Water Intake
- Drinking water is often believed to hydrate the skin, but the relationship between water intake and skin hydration is complex 2.
- Some studies suggest that drinking water can improve skin hydration, particularly in individuals with low water consumption 3, 4.
- A study published in 2015 found that increasing water intake by 2 L per day for 30 days significantly improved skin hydration and biomechanics in healthy females 4.
- Another study published in 2007 found that drinking mineral water or tap water for 4 weeks had distinct effects on skin physiology, with mineral water decreasing skin density and increasing skin thickness in individuals who had previously consumed little water 5.
Optimum Water Intake for Skin Hydration
- The optimum water intake level for improving skin hydration is still unknown, and further research is needed to determine the ideal amount of water intake for skin health 3.
- A study published in 2010 found no scientific proof to support the recommendation of drinking eight glasses of water per day for skin hydration, suggesting that this may be a myth 2.
- However, other studies suggest that drinking water can have a positive impact on skin physiology, particularly in individuals with low water consumption 4, 5.
Skin Hydration and Overall Health
- Skin hydration is an important aspect of overall skin health, and is influenced by a range of factors, including water intake, humidity, and the use of moisturizing products 6.
- Maintaining optimal skin hydration is essential for preventing water loss from the body and ensuring the normal physiological functioning of the skin 6.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between water intake and skin hydration, and to determine the most effective ways to maintain healthy, hydrated skin 3, 4, 5, 6.