Summer can be challenging for your skin. Sun, seawater, chlorinated pool water, and air-conditioning can dry out and damage your skin. Add high temperatures and sweating to the mix and you have a recipe for skin problems.
Hydration and skin health are closely linked at all times of the year, but in warm weather, hydration is even more critical. Adequate water intake helps your skin stay resilient and comfortable, even in challenging summer conditions.
In this article, we’ll explore the impact of hydration on skin health during the summer months and how to build smart hydration habits that support healthy skin from within.
Why Summer Can Be Tough on Your Skin
Increased heat and UV exposure can speed up water loss through the skin’s surface. It’s one way the body cools itself, but it can lead to dryness and discomfort.
In addition, while air conditioning feels great, it reduces humidity levels and pulls even more moisture from the skin. Air pollution and allergens in the summer air can also contribute to irritation or skin rashes.
Signs Your Skin Might Be Dehydrated
Your skin is one of the first places to show subtle signs of dehydration. But keep in mind that dry skin, as most people think of it, isn’t necessarily dehydrated. And not all dehydrated skin feels dry.
That’s because dehydration refers to a lack of water, not oil. Oily or combination skin can be dehydrated without obvious signs of dryness, especially in the summer.
Here are a few signs your skin might be dehydrated:
• Tightness or dullness: Your skin might feel tight, especially after washing.
• Fine lines or crepey texture: Regardless of age, dehydration can create or exaggerate fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth.
• Flaky or rough patches: Even skin that’s typically oily or acne-prone can get flaky when dehydrated.
• Increased sensitivity: Dehydrated skin is prone to irritation and may react more strongly to skin products or sun exposure.
• Uneven tone or texture: When the skin barrier is compromised, your skin can appear less even or smooth.
If you’re noticing any of these issues, especially during warmer months, dehydration may be a key factor.
How Hydration Supports Healthy Skin in Summer
Water is essential for every system in the body, and your skin is no exception. Hydration and skin health go hand in hand because water supports your skin from the inside out. Here’s how hydration keeps your skin resilient and balanced during the hot summer months.
Maintains Skin Elasticity and Plumpness
Hydrated skin retains moisture, which makes your skin appear firmer and smoother. Proper hydration supports your skin’s natural elasticity and helps keep your complexion looking fresh, not fatigued.
Supports the Skin Barrier
Your skin’s outermost layer acts as a protective barrier. Adequate hydration helps maintain this barrier so it can keep out irritants and even microorganisms that cause disease. If you’re not drinking enough water, the barrier can become compromised and even develop small fissures or cracks—think chapped lips.
Helps the Body Flush Waste More Efficiently
Your liver and kidneys are your body’s natural detox systems, and they need plenty of water to do their job. In fact, signs of kidney disease can show up on your skin, and liver disease can cause itching and jaundice. When your kidneys and liver are healthy and well-hydrated, they remove waste as they should. As a result, your skin is less likely to become dull or congested.
Regulates Oil Production
When skin is dehydrated, it can overcompensate by producing excess oil, especially in summer. Drinking enough water helps your skin stay balanced. Good hydration habits, like a morning hydration routine, can potentially reduce clogged pores and breakouts caused by excess sebum. And while healthy hydration isn’t a cure for acne, it can definitely help.
Together, these benefits show how proper hydration supports your skin’s natural resilience, especially during summer.
Smart Summer Hydration Tips for Healthy Skin
Staying hydrated during summer doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a bit of intention. These simple tips can help you maintain hydration and skin health throughout the summer season.
Drink Water Regularly
Thirst isn’t always a reliable signal. By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be mildly dehydrated. Try to sip water throughout the day, especially if you’re working outdoors or exercising. If you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces, you may need to drink more water than usual.
Eat Water-Rich Foods
Hydration doesn’t have to come from drinks alone. Many foods, such as watermelon, pineapple, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, peaches, celery, and strawberries, add to your daily fluid intake. They can also provide electrolytes and skin-friendly nutrients like vitamin C.
Limit Alcohol and Sugary Drinks
Both alcohol and high-sugar beverages can contribute to dehydration and inflammation—a double whammy for your skin. Choose water, electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water and fruit-infused drinks, and even cold summer soups when you’re hot, active, or out in the sun.
Replenish During and After Sweating
Heat and exercise cause your body to lose fluids and minerals. Make it a habit to rehydrate when sweating on a hot day, especially during outdoor activities. Filtered water with a pinch of salt and a slice of citrus can make a simple, refreshing DIY electrolyte drink.
Choose Filtered Water
If your tap water tastes off, you’re less likely to drink it. Filtered water tastes better because it has fewer impurities, and great-tasting water makes it easier to meet your hydration goals. That’s one small upgrade that can help your skin all summer long.
Give Your Skin a Summer Glow From the Inside Out
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and like the rest of you, it thrives when you’re well hydrated. Summer brings extra challenges, including sun, heat, salt, chlorine, and more, but drinking enough water can make a big difference.
At Brio, we understand the connection between hydration and skin health. That’s why we offer a range of filtered water solutions designed to fit your lifestyle. Brio SIMPL Tankless RO Undersink Filtration Systems deliver exceptionally pure water without plastic waste. Prefer a countertop option or love sparkling water? Explore Brio Refillable Tank Countertop Water Dispensers.
Make hydration easy by choosing water you actually want to drink. Water filtered by a Brio system or cooler tastes better, so staying hydrated feels less like a task and more like a treat.
