Maintaining hydrated, healthy skin is essential to achieve a strong barrier and beautiful glow, says Fresno, CA, dermatologist Kathleen Behr, MD. Of course, we know about using moisturizers and hydrating serums, but the experts have a few tips beyond the general suggestions. Board-certified dermatologists say we shouldn’t sleep on these skin hydrating methods, especially in the winter.
Up your moisturizer game
It’s essential to apply moisturizer more than once a day, says New York dermatologist Elaine Kung, MD, but there are a few simple tricks that can help make the most of the hydration. Dr. Kung recommends dampening the skin before applying moisturizer or applying it after a shower to lock moisture in.
Consume water, fruits and vegetables
It’s important to “drink water for overall health, especially for a healthy skin barrier, to retain moisture,” says Dr. Kung. Eating fruits and vegetables with a high water content is also beneficial as they’re “rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that maintain skin health.” Dr. Kung recommends upping your intake of cucumber, zucchini, lettuce, tomato, grapefruit, orange, pineapple, strawberry and melon.
See if slugging is right for you
While the trendy slugging technique is not for everyone, it can benefit those with dry skin. To do this, Dr. Kung recommends slugging a moisturizing cream with an ointment to help seal the skin barrier.
Get a humidifier going
If the environment you’re in all the time is dry, that’s bound to affect your skin. Dr. Kung suggests adding a humidifier to your home to moisturize the air, which can be great for skin and general wellness.
Incorporate CBD for anti-inflammatory benefits
“There are many reasons for dry skin, from dehydration in the body to an inflammatory component in the body,” says Rhode Island physician and CBD specialist Lucille Vega, MD. “CBD helps with inflammation…Therefore if we can reduce the inflammation at the skin, perhaps the skin can function properly to restore its own natural hydration pathways,” suggests Dr. Vega.
The anti-inflammatory properties of ingestible CBD can help soothe skin irritation and redness from within, which commonly appear with dry skin. Incorporating topical products that feature CBD and other skin-loving ingredients can also help improve complexion.