The Science of Skin Hydration

We all crave that healthy, radiant glow that comes with well-hydrated skin. While topical creams and lotions certainly have their impact, true skin hydration starts from within. Just like a plant needs water to flourish, our skin requires nourishment from the inside out to maintain its elasticity, plumpness, and overall health.

You see, our skin, the body's largest organ, is a complex structure composed of multiple layers. The outermost layer, the epidermis, acts as a protective barrier against environmental aggressors and helps regulate water loss. A key component of the epidermis is the stratum corneum, often referred to as the skin's "moisture barrier". This layer consists of cells and lipids that work together to keep moisture in and irritants out.

When this barrier is compromised, our skin can become dry, flaky, and prone to breakouts. Factors like harsh weather conditions, hot showers, aging, and even our diet can affect the integrity of our skin's moisture barrier.

While topical moisturizers can provide temporary relief, true and lasting hydration comes from nourishing our skin from within. By consuming foods, drinks, and supplements rich in specific nutrients, we can support our skin's natural hydration processes and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion.

Hydration Heroes: Foods for Happy Skin

Our diet plays a crucial role in skin health. Just as certain foods can contribute to inflammation and breakouts, others can nourish and hydrate our skin from the inside out. Let's explore the hydration heroes you should incorporate into your diet.

Water-Rich Fruits and Vegetables

Think of these as nature's own hydrating face masks. Fruits and vegetables with high water content help replenish fluids and deliver essential vitamins and minerals directly to your skin cells. Examples include: 

• Watermelon: This summer staple is a hydration superstar, boasting a water content of over 90%. It's also packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect skin from sun damage.

• Cucumber: Another refreshing choice, cucumbers are composed of approximately 96% water. They also contain silica, a mineral that contributes to skin elasticity and strength.

• Strawberries: These juicy berries are not only delicious but also a good source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that supports collagen production for healthy, plump skin.

• Spinach: This leafy green is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A and E, which contribute to skin cell turnover and repair.

• Celery: Crunchy and hydrating, celery contains electrolytes that help regulate fluid balance in the body.

Essential Fatty Acids

These healthy fats are crucial for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes, including those in your skin. They help lock in moisture and prevent dryness, leaving your skin feeling supple and smooth. Examples Include:

• Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and tuna are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to support skin hydration and reduce inflammation.

• Avocado: This creamy fruit is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which help improve skin elasticity and protect against environmental damage.

• Nuts and Seeds: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are packed with omega-3s and other healthy fats that contribute to a healthy complexion.

Antioxidant Powerhouses

Antioxidants help protect our skin from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that can accelerate aging and contribute to wrinkles and dullness. Examples Include: 

• Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are loaded with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help protect skin from oxidative stress.

• Dark Chocolate: Good news for chocolate lovers! Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is a rich source of flavonoids, antioxidants that may improve skin hydration and elasticity.

• Green Tea: This popular beverage is packed with polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that can help protect skin from sun damage and reduce inflammation.

Quench Your Thirst: Drinks for Radiant Skin

While topical hydration is important, drinking enough fluids is crucial for overall skin health and for maintaining optimal hydration levels within the skin. Remember, your skin is an organ, and like all organs, it needs adequate hydration to function properly. Here are some of the best beverages to quench your thirst and keep your skin glowing:

• Water: The ultimate hydration hero! Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your skin cells plump and hydrated.

• Coconut Water: This natural electrolyte drink is a great way to rehydrate after exercise or on a hot day. It's packed with potassium, magnesium, and other minerals that support healthy skin function.

• Herbal Teas: Chamomile, rooibos, and hibiscus teas are not only hydrating but also offer antioxidant benefits.

• Infused Water: Add a refreshing twist to your water by infusing it with fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Cucumber, lemon, and mint are popular choices.

• Collagen Beauty Drinks: These drinks could also be an option in terms of hydration coupled with other benefits. For instance, our Collagen Beauty Drink is a collagen-rich drink that hydrates, soothes, and firms skin to reverse signs of aging. It’s made with powerful Japanese technology with 2x the collagen for 2x the absorption. Recommended for maturing skin and ideal for all skin types. For a collagen drink that’s a bit stronger, you can opt for our Caviar Collagen Beauty Drink – a miracle beauty drink that reverses signs of aging and improves skin’s texture, firmness, and elasticity. With a high 21,306mg volume of Marine Collagen Peptides, this unique and powerful formula includes salmon caviar extract, pearl powder, and hyaluronic acid to help skin maintain its elasticity and youthful glow over time.*

Tip: Limit sugary drinks like sugary sodas and juices, as they can contribute to dehydration and inflammation, which can negatively impact skin health.

Supplement Your Skin's Glow

While a healthy diet lays the foundation for radiant skin, targeted supplements can offer valuable support by delivering concentrated doses of skin-loving nutrients. Think of supplements as the reinforcements that come in to address specific needs and amplify your body's natural processes. Just as a gardener might use fertilizer to enrich the soil, supplements can provide that extra boost to help your skin flourish.

However, it's important to remember that supplements are not a magic fix. They work best in conjunction with a balanced diet, proper hydration, and a consistent skincare routine. With that said, let's explore some of the key supplements that have shown promise in recent suggested studies for supporting skin hydration and overall skin health:

• Hyaluronic Acid: This naturally occurring substance is a humectant, meaning it attracts and holds onto moisture like a sponge. Studies suggest that hyaluronic acid supplements may improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of wrinkles by increasing the skin's moisture content. Look for supplements that provide high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, as it is believed to be more effective in hydrating the skin.

• Collagen: As we age, our body's natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Collagen is a key structural protein in the skin, providing strength and elasticity. Collagen supplements, particularly hydrolyzed collagen (which is more easily absorbed), may help improve skin elasticity and hydration by stimulating the body's own collagen production. Choose collagen supplements from grass-fed, pasture-raised sources.

• Ceramides: These waxy lipid molecules are essential components of the skin's barrier function. Supplementing with ceramides can help strengthen the skin's natural barrier, leading to improved hydration and reduced water loss. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: If you don't consume enough fatty fish, omega-3 supplements can help ensure you're getting adequate amounts of these essential fatty acids for skin health. Omega-3s help to maintain the fluidity of cell membranes, including those in the skin, which contributes to better hydration and a healthier complexion. Choose omega-3 supplements derived from fish oil or algae oil and even look for products with high levels of EPA and DHA.

• Vitamin C: This potent antioxidant is essential for collagen synthesis and plays a vital role in protecting skin from environmental damage. Vitamin C supplements can help support collagen production, leading to firmer, more hydrated skin. They also help to neutralize free radicals, which can damage skin cells and contribute to premature aging. Look for vitamin C supplements in the form of ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid, as these are the most bioavailable forms.

• Vitamin E: Another powerful antioxidant, vitamin E works synergistically with vitamin C to protect skin cells from damage. It also helps to support the skin's natural barrier function, improving its ability to retain moisture.

• Zinc: This essential mineral plays a crucial role in skin health, contributing to wound healing and cell regeneration. Zinc also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for individuals with skin conditions like acne or rosacea. Choose zinc supplements in the form of zinc picolinate or zinc gluconate for better absorption.

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This naturally occurring compound is found in every cell of the body and plays a vital role in energy production. CoQ10 also has antioxidant properties, protecting skin cells from damage caused by free radicals. As we age, CoQ10 levels decline, so supplementing with CoQ10 may help improve skin hydration and elasticity.

• Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera is often used topically to treat burns and skin irritations. However, taking aloe vera supplements may also offer benefits for skin hydration by reducing inflammation and promoting collagen production.

• Shea Butter: An emollient that softens and smooths the skin.

• Jojoba Oil: An emollient that closely resembles the skin's natural oils.

• Grape Seed Extract: This potent antioxidant is derived from grape seeds and is rich in polyphenols, which help protect skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV radiation.

• Astaxanthin: This powerful antioxidant is derived from algae and is known for its ability to protect skin from sun damage. Astaxanthin may also help improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

• MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): This naturally occurring compound is a source of sulfur, a mineral that is essential for collagen production and skin health.

Skincare Products to Use for Skin Hydration

While internal hydration is fundamental, a well-chosen skincare routine can significantly enhance your skin's ability to retain moisture and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. Think of your skincare products as the external support system that complements your internal efforts. Just as a plant benefits from regular watering and proper soil conditions, your skin thrives when it's treated to a combination of nourishing ingredients and effective formulations.

When selecting skincare products for hydration, it's essential to consider your skin type and individual needs. What works wonders for dry skin might not be suitable for oily or sensitive skin. Pay attention to the ingredients list and look for products that are free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, and other potential irritants.

Below are some key categories of skincare products to incorporate into your hydrating routine:

1. Cleansers: The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. Opt for a gentle cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin's natural oils, like our One & Done Oil Cleanser. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Avoid harsh sulfates, which can disrupt the skin's natural barrier and lead to dryness.

2. Toners: Help to balance the skin's pH and prep it for the next steps in your routine. Choose alcohol-free toners with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, rosewater, or aloe vera. These ingredients help to soothe and hydrate the skin, preparing it for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. Our Age Defense Cleansing Mousse is a multifunctional product to cleanse, tone, and remove makeup in one step.

• Serums: These are lightweight, concentrated formulations that deliver potent doses of active ingredients to the skin. For hydration, look for serums like our containing hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, niacinamide, or peptides. These ingredients can help to boost hydration, improve skin elasticity, and protect against environmental damage. Options we carry include:

• Stem-C Serum: An intensive Vitamin C serum to brighten, illuminate, and firm the skin.

• Retinol Renewal Serum: With powerful humectants and profound concentrations of bio-available Vitamins A and E, it helps retain moisture and prevent damage caused by dryness. The end result: firmer, plumper, healthier looking skin for a radiant complexion.

• Age Reverse Serum: A rejuvenating serum that boosts moisture retention deep in the layers of the skin and stimulates collagen production.

• Océan Complex Serum: This daily balancing serum combines phyto-chemicals and 90+ nutrient rich ocean minerals to provide deep hydration, promote collagen production, and reduce excess oil.

• HA Bright Serum: This gentle brightening serum harnesses the lightening power of kojic acid to fade the appearance of dark spots and scars while restoring hydration and luminosity to the skin.

3. Moisturizers: Moisturizers are essential for locking in hydration and protecting the skin's moisture barrier. Look for moisturizers that contain a combination of humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin) to attract and hold moisture, emollients (like shea butter and jojoba oil) to soften and smooth the skin, and occlusives (like petrolatum and dimethicone) to create a protective barrier that prevents water loss. For instance, our Stem Cell Gel Moisturizer is a bouncy gel moisturizer aimed at protecting and nourishing the skin with a weightless finish. This refreshing gel helps balance, soothe, and combat daily environmental stressors. Agave stem cells stimulate collagen production and soften skin while propolis, royal jelly, and honey provide deep nourishment to the skin.

4. Exfoliants: Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells that can accumulate on the surface of the skin and interfere with hydration. Choose gentle exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to promote cell turnover and reveal smoother, more radiant skin. Avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate and damage the skin.

5. Masks: Face masks provide an intensive hydration boost and can address specific skin concerns. Look for masks that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or honey. Sheet masks, cream masks, and gel masks are all popular options for delivering a concentrated dose of hydration to the skin. Options on our site include: Golden Glow Collagen Mask or Océan Complex Masque.

6. Facial Oils: Facial oils can provide an extra layer of hydration and nourishment, particularly for dry or mature skin. Look for plant-based oils like jojoba oil, argan oil, and rosehip oil, which are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. Apply a few drops of facial oil after your moisturizer to seal in hydration and promote a healthy glow. Our Placenta Timeless Essence is a nutrient-rich concentrate for illuminating dull, tired skin and promoting skin cell restoration.

By incorporating these skincare products into your routine and choosing formulations that cater to your specific skin type, you can create a personalized hydration strategy that complements your internal efforts and helps you achieve a healthy, radiant complexion. Keep in mind to also do the following:

1. Always patch test new products before applying them to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive skin.

2. Apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency (toner, serum, moisturizer, oil) to allow for optimal absorption

3. Stay consistent by using your hydrating products regularly to see the best results.

Lifestyle Habits for Lasting Hydration

Beyond diet and supplements, certain lifestyle habits can significantly impact your skin's hydration levels, such as:

• Limit Hot Showers: While a hot shower can be relaxing, prolonged exposure to hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Opt for lukewarm showers and keep them short.

• Use a Gentle Cleanser: Harsh soaps can disrupt your skin's pH balance and contribute to dryness. Again, choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won't strip away your skin's natural oils.

• Moisturize Regularly: Apply a moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing to lock in moisture. Choose a moisturizer that's appropriate for your skin type.

• Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Sun exposure can dehydrate and damage your skin. Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.

• Manage Stress: Stress can wreak havoc on your skin. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.

• Get Enough Sleep: During sleep, our body repairs and regenerates cells, including skin cells. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I tell if my skin is dehydrated?

A: Common signs of dehydration include dryness, flakiness, tightness, and dullness. You may also notice fine lines and wrinkles appearing more prominent.

Q: Can drinking more water clear up breakouts?

A: While drinking enough water is essential for overall skin health, it's not a guaranteed cure for breakouts. Breakouts are often caused by a combination of factors, including excess oil production, bacteria, and inflammation.

Q: How long does it take to see results from hydrating foods and drinks?

A: Everyone's skin is different, but you may start to notice improvements in your skin's hydration levels within a few weeks of making dietary changes and adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

Q: Are expensive skincare products necessary for hydrated skin?

A: While some skincare products can be beneficial, a healthy diet and lifestyle are the foundation for hydrated skin. You don't necessarily need to spend a fortune on expensive products to achieve a healthy glow.

Q: Can I overhydrate my skin?

A: While rare, it is possible to overhydrate your skin by using excessive amounts of certain humectant ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid. This can lead to a temporary plumping effect but may disrupt the skin's natural moisture balance in the long run.

Now You Know How to Unlock the Secrets to Radiant Skin from the Inside Out!

True radiance isn't just skin deep—it's a reflection of how we nourish our bodies from the inside out – aka achieving hydrated, radiant skin is a holistic journey that starts from within. Think of your skin as a delicate ecosystem, thriving on a balanced diet, ample hydration, and mindful lifestyle choices. By embracing the hydration heroes found in nature's bounty, choosing skin-loving beverages, and considering targeted supplements, you're not just hydrating your skin, you're investing in its long-term health and vitality.

Remember, the journey to radiant skin is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself, embrace the process, and enjoy the journey as you discover the unique combination of foods, drinks, supplements, and skincare practices that unlock your skin's natural luminosity. Here's to a future filled with healthy, happy, and hydrated skin!

Sources:

1. Rhodes, L. E., Durham, B. H., Fraser, W. D., & Friedmann, P. S. (2011). Dietary fish oil reduces basal and ultraviolet B-induced epidermal eicosanoid synthesis and UVB-induced suppression of the immune response in human skin. The Journal of investigative dermatology, 131(1), 54-60.

2. Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M., & Karakiulakis, G. (2012). Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 253-258.

3. Pullar, J. M., Carr, A. C., & Vissers, M. C. (2017). The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients, 9(8), 866.

4. Verdier-Sévrain, S., & Bonté, F. (2007). Skin hydration: a review on its molecular mechanisms. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 6(2), 75-82.

 

Disclaimer: **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with your doctor before consuming if you are allergic to seafood, pregnant, lactating, or taking any medication or have medical conditions.