5 TIPS FOR HYDRATED SKIN
As well as looking plump, smooth, and glowing, properly hydrated skin can carry out its number one job, which is to act as a natural barrier to the elements, protecting the lower layers of skin from damage. If you’re dealing with skin that feels tight and rough with flaky areas and irritated redness, it’s likely that your skin needs a dose of hydration as your moisture barrier has been compromised.
Fortunately, small lifestyle changes can be made to remedy the issue. Start by drinking at least two litres of water a day, stay away from cigarette smoke and limit your caffeine intake. It’s also important to avoid washing your face in hot water as this can dry skin out. Exercising is a good idea as it increases blood flow to the skin. The right skincare can also help, so here are six tips to get your skin back into balance.
Tip 1: Try a gentle cleanser
Over-harsh cleansing products can strip the skin of its natural moisturising factors and oils, leaving it sensitised and tender. If skin feels dehydrated, it’s still important to cleanse every morning and evening, as sweat, dirt and debris will irritate already uncomfortable skin. Use a gentle cleanser like Centella Sensitive Facial Cleanser, which helps to strengthen your natural moisture barrier function and rehydrate skin. You may prefer to try our Ultra Facial Cleanser, which won’t dry skin and contains Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E and Avocado Oil. Avoid over-cleansing, twice a day (morning and evening) and after exercise is enough.
Tip 2: Treat skin to regular face masks
Boost your skin’s hydration levels with a moisturising face mask whenever you’re looking or feeling dehydrated, and skin will thank you. Reduce water evaporation throughout the night by trying an overnight mask such as Ultra Facial Overnight Rehydrating Mask with 10.5% Squalane. This strengthening hydrating mask helps strengthen the skin barrier function overnight to lock-in moisture for softer, more resilient, healthier-looking skin.
Tip 3: Always wear sun protection
Less of a tip, more of a rule, don’t let the damaging sun’s rays wreak havoc on your skin. UVA and UVB rays are the number one cause of premature fine lines and wrinkles and they can quickly dry and dehydrate all skin types, leading to lasting damage like skin roughness and discoloration. Do your skin a favour and apply sunscreen every day, the latest formulations make it less of a chore and more of a luxurious experience. For dehydrated skin we recommend Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ which offers sun protection and helps to keep skin hydrated.
Tip 4: Nourish overnight
Support your skin’s natural overnight recovery process with our hydrating formulas. Skin loses more water at night due to lower oil production while sleeping, so you may want to add a rich face oil or moisturiser that will lock in moisture. Try Midnight Recovery Concentrate, a replenishing face oil blend that boosts essential moisture to help restore skin throughout the evening. If you prefer a cream, we recommend Midnight Recovery Omega Rich Cloud Cream which provides lasting, overnight moisture for smooth, plump and radiant looking skin.
