Hydration: The First Pillar of Vital Health
What happens with poor hydration
Not getting enough fluids can leave the body and skin short of water. The CDC notes that dehydration may cause unclear thinking, mood changes, overheating, constipation, and kidney stones. Skin can show it too: dry skin and a sunken look around the eyes are among the signs dermatologists associate with dehydration.
The solution: simple, everyday support
The fix is not complicated: a simple routine you can actually keep. Our Hydrate collections gather the essentials in one place. For the body, picks to help make daily hydration part of your routine. For the skin, care to help replenish moisture for softer, smoother-feeling skin.
Why hydration matters
Water is part of nearly every process in the body. According to the CDC, getting enough water every day is important for health, and water helps your body keep a normal temperature, lubricate and cushion joints, protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and get rid of waste.
Hydration and your skin
Your skin holds water and can lose it. Dermatologists note that when skin loses water too quickly, it becomes dry, and that dry skin or sunken-looking skin around the eyes can be signs of dehydration (American Academy of Dermatology).
Research also suggests that drinking more water can modestly improve skin hydration measurements, particularly in people who drank less water beforehand, with some studies reporting improvements in dryness and roughness. Topical moisturizers remain an important part of keeping skin comfortable and supple. Explore skin hydration essentials.
Simple everyday habits
- Carry a reusable water bottle with you.
- Choose water over sugary drinks.
- Opt for water when eating out.
- Serve water during meals.
- Add a wedge of lime or lemon for flavor.
Daily water needs vary by age, sex, activity level, and other factors. Foods with high water content, such as many fruits and vegetables, also contribute to your daily intake.
Keep exploring
Continue your journey through the pillars of vital health: Nutrition and Energy.
Sources
- CDC — About Water and Healthier Drinks
- American Academy of Dermatology — What your skin can tell you about your overall health
- American Academy of Dermatology — Dry skin: Who gets and causes
- Does dietary fluid intake affect skin hydration in healthy humans? A systematic literature review (PubMed)
These pages are for general information only and are not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner about your individual needs.