How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated in the Desert

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Living in a dry climate with low humidity usually leads to dry skin, wrinkles and a very dull
complexion. Once temperatures in Arizona hit 90-degrees, it seems as though dehydration is inevitably knocking at our doors. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep your skin hydrated and looking flawless throughout the hottest months including:

  • Drink lots of water: This may sound like a no brainer, but to properly keep skin hydrated you should drink an ounce of water for each pound that you weigh, each day. So, 150 pounds = 150 ounces. Our skin is a living organ and because it has its own process of
    breathing, a ton of water is lost to the air through sweat evaporating through our pores.
    In fact, we sweat out up to a quart of water each day.
  • Eat fruits and veggies: Some of the best water-rich foods include cucumber (96%
    water), tomatoes (95%), spinach (93%), oranges (86%) and apples (85%). These foods
    keep us hydrated and boost absorption because they’re also full of vitamins, minerals
    and electrolytes. Fruits and veggies are also high in antioxidants so consuming these
    superfoods adds up quickly to provide nourishment for your skin.
  • Sleep: Our bodies repair when we’re sleeping, and this includes building healthy new
    skin cells and maintaining collagen. A restful night of six to eight hours of sleep also
    reduces inflammation which promotes skin health, reduces redness and preserves
    collagen structure.

  • Exfoliate: At least one to two times a week, exfoliate to get rid of that topmost layer of
    dead skin cells. They can build up over time and will leave your skin looking dull and dried out which means more fine lines and wrinkles. Exfoliating also allows products to penetrate the skin better so you are getting the most out of your skincare. 
  • Use a humidifier: By adding moisture to the indoor air, you help to reduce the occurrence of dry, cracked skin. 
  • Filler: Hyaluronic acid dermal filler is a gel that replaces volume we lose over time. HA fillers attract volume to help hydrate the skin from a deeper level, lasting longer than
    topical HA.
  • Topical Hyaluronic Acid (HA): HA is a skin plumper by way of its ability to retain
    moisture by attracting water. It helps to keep skin hydrated, providing a smooth, soft
    appearance by hydrating fine lines on the skin. Our favorite is SkinMedica HA5.
  • Use a hydrating sunscreen: Ideally, look for SPF 30 or higher and know your skin type. If you have dry skin, look for moisturizing ingredients that enhance luminosity, moisture and glow. We love Alastin Hydratint which we use as our daily foundation.

 


Authors: Marissa Abdo, MS, RN, CANS and Morgan Renfro, RN, CANS are the founders of
Scottsdale-based Lumen + Bevel Aesthetics, are top trainers in the world if injectables and offer clients a collaborative experience using non-surgical facial sculpting and contouring techniques to enhance and preserve each individual’s natural beauty.