The body needs water to stay healthy, and its largest organ--the skin--is no exception. Successful skin care subsequently requires drinking water to enjoy a more radiant complexion. Here, learn how water intake impacts this organ and how much you should drink daily for better skin and improved overall health.

A Guide to Water Intake and Skin Health 

What Happens to Skin When You Don’t Drink Enough Water?

The skin is made up of 64% water, and research shows increasing daily intake improves hydration and surface pH. While hydrated skin looks plump, supple, clear, and healthy, dehydrated skin looks dry and prone to blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles. Skin elasticity decreases without sufficient water intake, causing it to look saggy.

Acne flare-ups often occur when the body is dehydrated because urination decreases and toxins are not eliminated at regular intervals. pH level imbalances also contribute to blemishes. Skin can appear puffy as well because the body retains water when it does not receive enough of the essential liquid.

Not only does hydrated skin look better, it feels better. Too little water causes tightness and flaking, which can make skin crack and bleed, or feel itchy.

How Much Should You Drink to Care For Your Skin?

How much water people need per day varies by individual; however, skin care experts generally recommend drinking about two liters daily. Always drink water when you feel thirsty since it is your body’s way of telling you to hydrate and during strenuous physical activities. Any activity in severe heat also calls for drinking water to replace what you’ve lost through sweat.

Help yourself drink water every day by keeping a reusable water bottle within reach for consistent sipping. Consume more foods with high water content, including fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, cucumber, cantaloupe, and apples are among the most hydrating. 

Practice good skin care by drinking water and making appointments at Central Carolina Dermatology of High Point. Featuring the main office in High Point, NC, and satellite offices in Lexington and Kernersville, this dermatology center offers skin care services for moles, psoriasis, eczema, and acne, among other issues. Call (336) 887-3195 today to make an appointment or learn about services online. Like the Facebook page for more skin care tips.