How to hydrate skin

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: To hydrate your skin, focus on internal hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and consuming water-rich foods. Externally, use moisturizers containing humectants, emollients, and occlusives, and avoid harsh soaps and excessive heat, which can strip the skin of its natural oils.

Key Facts

Drinking 8 glasses (64 ounces or about 2 liters) of water daily is a common recommendation for overall hydration.
Humectants like hyaluronic acid attract water to the skin's surface.
Emollients such as ceramides and fatty acids smooth and soften the skin.
Occlusives like petrolatum and dimethicone form a barrier to prevent water loss.
Lukewarm showers or baths are better than hot ones for preserving skin moisture, with a recommended duration of 5-10 minutes.

Overview

Hydrated skin is healthy, supple, and resilient skin. Dehydration can lead to dryness, flakiness, dullness, and make fine lines and wrinkles more prominent. Achieving and maintaining optimal skin hydration involves a two-pronged approach: ensuring adequate internal hydration and implementing effective external skincare practices.

Internal Hydration: The Foundation of Healthy Skin

Your skin's health is a reflection of your body's overall hydration levels. The skin acts as a barrier, and if your body is lacking in fluids, this barrier function can be compromised. Drinking enough water is paramount.

How Much Water is Enough?

The general recommendation is to drink around 8 glasses (64 ounces or about 2 liters) of water per day. However, individual needs can vary based on factors like activity level, climate, and overall health. Listen to your body; thirst is a clear indicator that you need to drink.

Water-Rich Foods

Beyond plain water, incorporating fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet can significantly contribute to your hydration. Examples include:

Cucumber (about 96% water)
Celery (about 95% water)
Watermelon (about 92% water)
Strawberries (about 91% water)
Oranges (about 87% water)

These foods also provide essential vitamins and antioxidants that support skin health.

External Hydration: Protecting and Replenishing Your Skin

While internal hydration sets the stage, external measures are crucial for keeping your skin moisturized and preventing moisture loss.

Choosing the Right Moisturizers

Moisturizers work in several ways to hydrate the skin. Understanding their key ingredients can help you select the most effective products:

Humectants: These ingredients draw moisture from the air and deeper layers of the skin to the surface. Examples include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, and sorbitol.
Emollients: These ingredients fill in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin feel smoother and softer. They also help to repair the skin barrier. Examples include ceramides, fatty acids, cholesterol, and natural oils like shea butter or jojoba oil.
Occlusives: These ingredients form a physical barrier on the skin's surface, sealing in moisture and preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Examples include petrolatum (petroleum jelly), dimethicone, mineral oil, and beeswax.

Look for moisturizers that contain a combination of these ingredients for comprehensive hydration. For dry skin, products with higher concentrations of emollients and occlusives are often beneficial.

Cleansing Habits

Harsh cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, which are vital for maintaining its moisture barrier.

Avoid harsh soaps: Opt for gentle, soap-free cleansers or cleansing oils that are formulated for sensitive or dry skin.
Limit hot water: Hot showers and baths can strip the skin of its natural sebum. Stick to lukewarm water and keep bathing times to 5-10 minutes.
Pat dry: After cleansing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, which can cause irritation and moisture loss.

Environmental Factors

Your environment plays a significant role in skin hydration:

Humidity: Low humidity, common in winter or arid climates, can draw moisture from your skin. Using a humidifier indoors can help maintain moisture levels.
Sun Protection: Sun damage can impair the skin's barrier function, leading to dehydration. Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
Wind and Cold: Exposure to wind and cold can chap and dry out the skin. Protect exposed areas with scarves and gloves, and apply a thicker moisturizer before going outdoors.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Certain lifestyle choices can impact your skin's hydration:

Alcohol and Caffeine: Excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine can have a diuretic effect, leading to dehydration. Moderate your intake.
Smoking: Smoking not only damages skin cells but also restricts blood flow, hindering the delivery of nutrients and moisture to the skin.

By combining consistent internal hydration with a thoughtful external skincare routine that respects your skin's natural barrier, you can effectively combat dryness and achieve a hydrated, healthy complexion.