There are a number of factors that affect the hydration of the skin, some of which are natural as we age, and some we can control:
- Environment: Environmental factors such as sun exposure, wind, cold temperatures, low humidity, and air conditioning can all contribute to skin dehydration.
- Age: As we mature, our skin loses its natural ability to hold moisture, resulting in dryness and dehydration.
- Diet: A diet that is low in water-rich foods can contribute to dehydration of the skin.
- Harsh soaps and detergents: Harsh soaps and detergents strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and dehydration.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and diabetes can contribute to dry, dehydrated skin.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics and cholesterol-lowering drugs, can cause skin dehydration as a side effect.
Helping Skin Hydration
Keeping the skin hydrated involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from environmental factors, and using natural skin care products that help to retain moisture.
To keep your skin hydrated, follow these tips:
- Drink plenty of water: Aim for at least eight glasses (2 litres) of water daily. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and overall health.
- Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser: Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers with moisturising ingredients.
- Apply a moisturiser: Use a hydrating moisturiser twice daily, ideally right after cleansing when your skin is still damp.
- Use a humidifier: Indoor heating and air conditioning systems can dry out the air, leading to dehydrated skin. A humidifier can help maintain moisture levels in your environment.
- Limit hot showers and baths: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and try to limit your shower or bath time.
- Exfoliate gently: Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, allowing moisturisers to penetrate more effectively. However, be gentle and avoid over-exfoliating, which can cause irritation and dryness.
- Protect your skin from the sun: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 each day, even on cloudy days. Sun exposure can cause premature ageing and dehydrate your skin.
- Eat a balanced diet: Opt for foods rich in healthy fats (e.g., avocado, nuts, and oily fish), antioxidants (e.g., berries, leafy greens, and green tea), and vitamins (e.g., vitamin C and E) to support skin health.
- Avoid irritants: Stay clear of products with harsh chemicals, fragrances, or alcohol, as they can dry out your skin. Opt for fragrance-free products with natural ingredients.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect your skin’s health. Practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, meditation, exercise, or other self-care activities.
By taking the time to improve your daily habits, you will not only help keep your stay skin hydrated and healthy, your sense of wellbeing will no doubt improve as a result.
With natural ingredients, Bee Good skincare products are designed to nourish your skin without any harsh effects, keeping your skin hydrated naturally.
Honey is a natural humectant. This means it attracts and retains moisture naturally. The Beeswax helps create a protective barrier against the elements, without blocking the pores and allowing your skin to breathe. Rich in vitamins B, C and E, Propolis is a natural skin healer that enhances skin renewal.
