Glow with the Flow: The Essential Role of Water in SkincareBare Necessities

Have you ever thought of water as your skin’s best secret? In a world buzzing with skincare trends and beauty myths, we often overlook one timeless element, yet it plays a key role in nurturing our natural beauty and skin health. Take a deep dive with Karolina Bajbuz, Local Life’s beauty expert, and discover why H2O might be the game-changer your skin has been thirsting for!

Hydration Harmony
We all know that hydration is the cornerstone of good health.
But did you know that your skin contains approximately 64% water? It’s well-established that adequate water intake supports good health as it helps flush out toxins; however, simply drinking plenty of water is unlikely to offer sufficient skin hydration. To achieve the best results, dermatologists agree that water should be applied topically to ensure maximum absorption where needed.

Water in Your Skincare
Have you ever looked at a cosmetic product and noticed water (aqua) as the first ingredient? As unappealing as it might sound, water is an essential element in skincare, working very hard to support healthy skin physiology, radiance and plumpness. Water in cosmetics replenishes water in your skin that evaporates from the surface and maintains healthy skin cells. For maximum efficacy, water must be supported by emollients and humectants such as plant oils and glycerine to lock in moisture, slow down water evaporation and deliver water into deeper layers of your skin.

The reason moisturisers and lotions contain a lot of water is because the skin barrier is naturally water-repellent. Only some of the water in the product will reach the deeper layers of your skin, while the rest will remain on the skin’s surface, providing external hydration. Since our skin tries to ‘push it off’, we need a lot of water to increase the chances of success!

Waterless Cosmetics: Yay or Nay?
Waterless cosmetics have gained traction in the eco-friendly beauty realm for their sustainability credentials and the skin benefits they impart. However, while these products initially help to soften, soothe and protect dry skin, unfortunately, they cannot replace the skin’s physiological need for topical water application. Relying solely on waterless cosmetics can, over time, lead to skin dehydration, undermining its natural balance and health.

Can you have an eco-friendly beauty routine without compromising efficacy? Of course! By blending water-based and waterless products, you can achieve both skin health and support the environment. Pick your cosmetics from independent beauty brands that champion sustainable, zero-waste practices without sacrificing results – the planet and your skin will thank you.

Quick tip: Apply your water-based skincare first and then follow with an oil-based product to keep the water locked in.

Hydration in Winter
As winter sets in, the cold weather, gusty winds, hot showers and indoor heating can sap moisture from our skin. Level up your skincare game using moisturisers packed with water, glycerine and nourishing plant oils, and steer clear of foamy cleansers and products with drying alcohols. Exfoliate once a week to remove dry, dull skin and enhance water absorption. Want something extra? Pop a humidifier in your room for a moisture boost. Cutting back on coffee, alcohol and smoking will help too!

Water might seem basic in the world of skincare, but its role is fundamental to maintaining our skin’s health. Embrace the power of H2O in your beauty routine and raise your glass to your glowy, plump and hydrated skin.