Here in Boulder, Colorado, we struggle to keep our bodies and skin hydrated. There is just very little humidity in the air. Likewise, living at a high elevation (we are at 5,328 feet in Boulder!) requires us to drink more water just to stay hydrated. So, keeping fluids in your body will help your skin to stay hydrated as well. In this blog article, I would like to discuss skin hydration, how important it is and what you can do to improve its state.
What is the main function of the skin?
Our skin covers the entire surface of our bodies, consequently making it our largest organ. In general, it protects what lies beneath its surface from potentially harmful agents, including microorganisms, chemical damage, temperature variation and impact. Certainly, the skin also relays sensations to the rest of the body. In other words, it regulates body temperature, fluid balance, Vitamin D synthesis and peripheral circulation.
As such a large and important part of the body, you would think our skin would be well cared for. This is, however, not always the case. In fact, one of the most significant aspects of skin care includes keeping the skin properly hydrated.
The three skin layers
The human skin consists of three primary layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. Each one has distinct functions and characteristics. Hydration is crucial for maintaining the health and vitality of all these three skin layers.
In the Epidermis: The outermost layer, the epidermis, acts as a protective shield against external factors such as UV rays, bacteria, and pollutants. Proper hydration ensures that the epidermis remains soft, supple, and resilient. When the epidermis lacks moisture, it can become dry, flaky, and prone to irritation. Adequate hydration helps maintain a healthy lipid barrier, which protects the skin from environmental factors like pollutants and pathogens. This barrier function is vital for preventing water loss and retaining essential nutrients within the skin.
In the Dermis: The dermis contains collagen and elastin fibers, which give the skin its strength, elasticity, and firmness. Collagen, in particular, relies on water to maintain its structure and function. When the skin is well-hydrated, these fibers can effectively support the skin, preventing sagging and wrinkles. Hydration also ensures that the dermal blood vessels function optimally, promoting efficient nutrient delivery and waste removal. Well-hydrated skin is more capable of healing and repairing itself, leading to a healthier complexion.
In the Subcutaneous Tissue: The subcutaneous tissue, which consists of fat cells and connective tissue, acts as a natural insulation and padding for the body. Proper hydration supports the overall health of these tissues, ensuring they remain plump and supportive. Hydrated subcutaneous tissue contributes to a smooth skin appearance and helps maintain body temperature.
In summary, hydration is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of all skin layers. It promotes a youthful appearance, supports the skin’s natural defenses, and aids in the skin’s ability to repair and regenerate. Drinking an adequate amount of water, along with using moisturizers and topical hydrating agents, plays a vital role in ensuring the skin stays healthy, soft, and vibrant.
What factors effect skin hydration?
What’s the connection between skin and hydration? Everything… fitness level, age and gender contribute to the amount of water typically contained in the human body. In fact, the average adult’s body contains about 65% water, while skin is composed mostly of water (72%). Losing just a small amount of the body’s water volume can lead to skin dehydration. Above all, drinking plenty of water is the first line of defense against skin moisture loss. And this is why you should drink water more than any other fluids. But, keeping your outer layer hydrated is not as simple as that!
External and internal factors
Both external and internal factors can influence your skin’s moisture balance. Unfortunately, we are all susceptible to these effects:
- Smoking and alcohol usage
- Overexposure to environmental elements, particularly wind, sun and temperature extremes
- Aging and stress (see our blog about stress reduction)
- Mechanical manipulation, such as the application of synthetic beauty products, sunscreens and cleansing
- Diet
Tips for keeping skin hydrated:
Below are some easy and effective habits to prevent the ravages of skin dehydration.
- Moisturize with products containing Hyaluronic Acid, which subsequently helps reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, retaining moisture in the skin
- Turn your air conditioner down or off at night
- Use a humidifier in dry climates or heated rooms
- Use shower cream rather than shower gel
- Limit sugar, salt, alcohol and caffeine intake
- Eat plenty of foods containing Omega-fatty acids, such as nuts and salmon
- Drink plenty of water and eat foods that contain lots of water (fruits and vegetables)
Skin Care products to help with hydration
Your skin has a bacterial balance (your skin biome) just like your gut, mouth, and lungs do. What you put on your skin can disrupt or support that. What you put on your skin goes into your bloodstream.
At Heavenly Embrace Wellness we use Jojoba Oil, which is rich in vitamin E and zinc. Above all, it nourishes the skin as a carrier oil for all our massage treatments and most often dōTERRA essential oils (Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade) to address different ailments and concerns.
That is to say, I use the following two products in my reflexology sessions. Firstly, I’ll use the fragrance-free and natural Hand & Body Lotion as a carrier cream to dilute different essential oils in your session. Secondly, the Body butter will be added sometimes to extra dry feet at the end of the session or my own self-care foot rub.
I use these other skin care products as well. In short, they help keep my skin hydrated and glowing, which is especially tough here in the dry Colorado Winters.
For my face and neck, I’ll alternate between these two awesome Moisturizers…
In conclusion, let me know if you have any questions regarding any of these products. So, feel free to Contact us to find out how to get 25% OFF on dōTERRA oils or check out the Essential Oils page for more information. Book a bodywork session today.
The best foundation you can wear is glowing healthy skin”
Love and Light,
Liraz
Liraz Bergman-Turner is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Energy Healer and a Reflexologist. She is the owner of Heavenly Embrace Wellness, a massage and energy healing practice in Boulder, CO.
Liraz is the best massage therapist I have worked with. She combines expert knowledge of anatomy with her sensitive intuition. She takes time to talk with you to learn your specific needs and follows up on future visits. She adapts her approach based on your preferences. She has alleviated pain in several areas for me, and suggested exercises and stretches I can do at home to maintain the improvements. Her office setting and personality are serene and relaxing. I always leave feeling significantly better physically and spiritually. I highly recommend Liraz and Heavenly Embrace Wellness.
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