Dermatologists Explain: Can Increasing Water Intake Improve Dry Skin?

The arrival of winter is often accompanied by a common annoyance: dry, flaky skin. Many believe that simply increasing water intake can tackle this problem. But is it really that simple?

In the colder seasons, the freezing air extracts moisture from the skin resulting in dryness, chapped lips, and nosebleeds. The methods people employ to stay warm, such as increasing indoor heating and taking hot showers, amplify the issue, says Nour Kibbi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Stanford Medicine.

To put it simply, Kibbi explains, “Cold weather wreaks havoc on skin.”

The presumption seems logical that if the skin loses excess moisture during winter, replenishing the body's water content could be a straightforward solution. Several content creators on TikTok endorse this notion, suggesting drinking more water helps hydrate the skin, making it clear and taut.

A comprehensive review from 2018 found inadequate quality evidence to support this idea, so dermatologists were called upon for their opinion.

According to the experts, an individual's ability to enhance their skin with water is largely dependent on their current hydration status.

Those who are sufficiently hydrated will not see any significant change to the moisture content of their skin through increased water intake, Kibbi explains. Skin hydration is principally determined by the health of its protective barrier, a lipid-rich layer which prevents water loss when functioning optimally.

Drinking water does contribute to skin health as it aids in maintaining regular blood volume and circulation. However, constant water consumption does not affect the skin barrier’s capability for moisture retention. Kibbi advises against hydrating through water solely for the purpose of skin hydration.

Moreover, drinking too much water can lead to a rare but dangerous condition called hyponatremia, a condition when sodium levels in the blood plunge to perilous levels, cautions Carolyn Jacob, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the director of Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology.

On the other hand, increasing water intake can sometimes amplify skin health and overall bodily functions if your body is in desperate need of hydration.

Lack of water can impart a sallow and wrinkle-prone appearance to your skin. Without adequate hydration, there won't be enough water to bind to hyaluronic acid, a skin compound notorious for retaining moisture and ensuring firmness.

For people who are dehydrated, drinking more water is a simple way to improve skin appearance.

Indicators such as headaches, dry mouth, and dark urine may hint towards dehydration. Also, physicians can undertake the 'turgor test' to diagnose moderate or severe dehydration. This involves pinching the skin to see how quickly it returns to normal.

There are no established guidelines for the minimum water intake, as it can vary according to an individual's activity level and other health conditions. However, it is suggested that men should consume around 13 cups of water per day, while women should aim for about 9 cups.

If your hydration is adequate, external moisturization is the best way to combat dry skin. Experts recommend skincare products containing humectants to attract and retain water and occlusives to lock in hydration, such as moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides or using petroleum jelly and lanolin, found in Aquaphor.

“Many of my patients will use humectants during the day because they tend to be easier products compatible with daily lives,” said Kibbi. “At nighttime, they might apply occlusives, the thicker ointments.”

You can also maximize moisturizer’s effectiveness by applying it to damp skin, which experts said will enable it to trap surface water.

Beyond skincare, there certain lifestyle factors can also play a role in combating dry skin.

Although Kibbi said she doesn’t typically advise her patients to make dietary changes for skin-related purposes, she noted that eating a balanced diet full of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals “is important for maintaining a normal skin barrier.” Jacob also suggested taking fish or algal oil supplements or eating more omega-3-rich foods, such as salmon and walnuts.

What’s crucial, experts said, is to avoid common wintertime habits that dry skin out to begin with. Instead of taking scalding showers, keep them “lukewarm”—and short, Jacob said. And if you’re spending time indoors with the heat blasting, use a humidifier, which adds more moisture to the air.

Think of it this way, Jacob said: “If you leave a cup of water out in a very arid place, the water is going to evaporate…Well, you’re a source of water too.”