The biggest organ in your body is your skin. It is already well known that lack of water causes the bodies organs to shut down, you can imagine the effect dehydration can have on your skin. When your skin is dehydrated its defenses are weakened which leads to skin sensitivity, irritation and premature aging.
Balanced skin relies on the health of the bodyโs natural skin moisturizing process. Healthy skin contains somewhere between 10 percent to 20 percent water, anything lower and it is considered dehydrated. You will experience symptoms such as dryness, flakiness, roughness, irritation or even cracking. All of which contribute to the look of prematurely aged skin.
Not to mention, when your skin is dehydrated it is less effective as a protective barrier and will likely react more easily to active ingredients or outside elements; otherwise referred to as sensitive skin. Outside elements such as extreme temperatures, air-conditioning, heaters, soap, medications, sun, alcohol and smoking can all effect your skins ability maintain healthy water levels.
Sun exposure is a huge factor of skin dehydration; ultra violet rays break down fiber in the skin known as elastin, while the sun absorbs water. This breakdown of elastin fiber prevents the skin from being able to snap back into shape, resulting in wrinkles. Water loss in the top layer of skin through external elements leads to lines and wrinkles appearing deeper and more pronounced, while also creating additional lines that add to the look of prematurely aged skin.
Rehydrating brings the skin back into balance, becoming stronger, healthier and less reactive. To avoid dehydration in your skin, it is important to take care of it both on the outside and on the inside. Be sure you are in the habit of properly cleansing, exfoliating and protecting the skin. A proper skin program will be focused on aiding the skin in retaining moisture while restoring and maintaining the barrier of your skin.
Internally, focus on consuming nutrient dense foods such as nuts, green leafy vegetables, whole grains (Vitamin E), egg yolks, salmon, Vitamin D, cabbage, tomatoes and citrus fruits (Vitamin C). And lastly, it is absolutely crucial that you practice proper hydration, consuming plenty of water daily has countless benefits beyond anti-aging. How much water? Well, that is unique to your individual body. Consider taking BODY360 Precision Wellness Assessment. It will be able to accurately determine your bodyโs hydration level and how much water your unique body needs to be properly hydrated, plus youโll gain insights on a total of 10 important, key health indicators that can significantly improve health, wellness, longevity and performance if you apply some of our recommendations to improve your numbers.
Consistently supplying the skin with internal and external care will help your body maintain its natural hydration process. It will lead to healthy, strong and more youthful looking skin. Being proactive will always be the best anti-aging secret.
