The Importance of Hydration

The body is made of 60% water, and all of our cellular processes require water to function. Water is a key component of the skin, as our skin contains approximately 64% water. Without a sufficient water supply skin can become dry and loose it’s soft characteristics. To prevent dry, tight, itchy or flaky skin it’s important to keep the skin hydrated.

There are several ways of keeping the sky hydrated. The body naturally keeps itself hydrated with tightly organized lipid molecules that prevent water loss in the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin). Secondly, the outer layer also contains natural hygroscopic (water-loving) molecules. These natural moisturizing molecules absorb water from the environment.

By keeping your skin hydrated you prevent aging. What you can specifically do is add products to your skincare routine that contain lycosamminoglycans (or ‘GAGs’). Gags have water-attracting properties that distribute water and water soluble molecules in the dermis and play and important role in the turgidity of skin (it’s ability to bounce back). This ingredient also really helps maintain and support skin proteins like collagen and elastin.

A product with this ingredient, to add to your skincare routine immediately, is hyaluronic acid, one of the most commonly used GAGs due to its moisture-binding property.

So, when it comes to facial hydration (this means neck and décolletage too!!) use products with GAGs, hyaluronic acid being a top choice.

Secondly, body moisturizing is crucial. Skin professionals recommend this is something you do daily. As you get older, your body produces less oil in your skin which results in overall dryer complexion that’s in need of some moisture.

Dermatologists say to apply your moisturizer after you take a shower or bath to ensure that hydration is locked in. This holds true for post-exfoliation too.