How To Stay Hydrated: Tips on Internal & External Hydration, Dr. G Reports

The summer sun is hot and temperatures are high. Dehydration can occur quickly and be very dangerous both internally and externally. Dehydration occurs when the body loses water and electrolytes and cannot function properly. Many regular outdoor activities (running, golf, even hanging by the pool) can lead to dehydration during the summer months. Stay hydrated internally by drinking enough fluids, especially water, and eating foods with high water content. Your skin also needs hydration; look for products high in hyaluronic acid as this miracle ingredient holds up to 100x it’s own weight in water (which will keep skin plump, hydrated and youthful-looking). Skin is left supple and hydrated.

What to Eat to Stay Hydrated

• Leafy greens
• Watermelon
• All berries
• Lettuce
• Raw spinach
• Tomato sauce
• Bell peppers
• Cucumbers
• Pineapple
• Coconut water-potassium, electrolytes
• Bananas-potassium
• Avocado
• Salmon

“Dr. G’s tip: “Add a pinch of Himalayan rock salt to your water. Himalayan salt contains over 80 essential nutrients our bodies crave. This water will keep you hydrated longer as the minerals will hold water in the body longer.”

What to Wear to Stay Hydrated by Skin Type

Whether you are oily, normal, dry, combination or sensitive moisturizing should be a regular part of your daily skin care regimen.

If You’re Oily

If you have oily skin, instead of avoiding moisturizers altogether, you should select one that’s “water-based”. Water-based moisturizing formulas are the most common type found on the market today. These moisturizers list water as their chief ingredient and often include such active constituents as hyaluronic acid to help improve their water-binding properties.

Hyaluronic acid is a large, sugar-like molecule that’s found in virtually every tissue of your body. As a key ingredient in your skin’s extracellular matrix, it plays a significant role in maintaining moisture and softness. Hyaluronic acid is an ideal moisturizer because it can attract and retain 1000 times its own weight in water (a feat unmatched by any other substance in nature). Skin will appear and feel fuller, more voluminous and show lessened signs of facial wrinkles. This type of moisturizer often comes in lightweight gels, serums, or oil free moisturizers and may be labeled “non-pore clogging”, “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic”. If you’re oily try our Radical Difference Serum. If you’re more acne-prone try our Detox Hydrating Gel.

If You’re Normal or Combination

A dry oil is a good option if you want an easy treatment plus hydration. Just remember to steer clear of products that use mineral waxes, mineral oils or other ingredients that can clog pores and trap perspiration. This makes a fertile breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. Fleuressence Native Botanical Cell Oil.

If You’re Sensitive

Sensitive skin types should be very careful when choosing a moisturizer as many products on the market contain synthetic ingredients. Although these moisturizers generally don’t cause an adverse reaction in the majority of people, they can be very irritating to sensitive skin. If your skin is easily irritated, you should look carefully for a moisturizer that’s labeled hypoallergenic. These moisturizers are free of all dyes, preservatives, and artificial fragrance. Simple is better when dealing with sensitive skin. Products which contain the fewest ingredient are best, especially when they include natural oils and other nutrients like vitamins and minerals that nourish and rejuvenate the skin. Try our Vital Boost Moisturizer.

If You’re Dry

The most important thing to consider when picking a good moisturizer for dry skin is the degree of dryness. The heavier and denser a moisturizer is, the more moisturizing/hydrating elements it contains. Gel is the lightest preparation, followed by lotion, oil, and then a rich cream, providing the heaviest dose of moisture. Try our Plant Profusion Night Cream for an ultra boot of hydration.

Wishing everyone a very happy and hydrated summer!