When skin is well hydrated, it is more plump and resilient. This is due at least in part to an ingredient in the skin called hyaluronic acid. The job of hyaluronic acid in the skin is to hold water. When there is adequate water from inside and out the skin looks healthier and more vibrant, and is less prone to wrinkles.
It is important to drink lots of fluids throughout the day for best results. You’ve probably heard that drinking 6-8 glasses of water is a good idea, but you may need more or less, depending on your activity level. Coffee and sodas do not count as water because they contain caffeine which is a diuretic, meaning that they draw water out of your system – and your skin.
The best time to moisturise is after you get out of the bath or shower, while your skin is still wet. Doing so will allow your skin to retain the extra water, especially if your moisturiser contains an occlusive agent.
A very common skin problem is over drying and dehydration of the skin. This can be extremely irritating and hard to get rid of, as it is uncomfortable and makes make-up very hard to apply evenly.
Here are some routines and tips to help combat your over-dried skin an get that baby softness you want.
Exfoliate your skin one to two times per week. This will eliminate any lingering dead skin cells and reduce flakiness.
Concentrate on the driest areas, if you have particular areas of dryness or irritation.
Moisturise. You should always have two different moisturisers, for day and for night. Your day moisturiser should be lighter and used to prep your skin for even make-up coverage. If it is too heavy, the skin may look shiny and feel oily. Your night moisturiser should be much heavier and penetrate deeper into the skin to attain long-term hydration. When choosing your moisturiser make sure that it is not oil-based and is very gentle with no perfume or colour – some have quite harsh or soapy ingredients that may irritate sensitive skin.
Use a hydration face mask ones or twice as week. This will give your skin a boost of deep-sown hydration.
Use less make-up, foundation!
Use very light, good-quality mineral make-up and foundation.
Hydration from the inside out. Ensure you drink plenty of water each day!