Glowing skin: You might dream of having that healthy, radiant glow from within your skin. You might try expensive creams or face masks, but one of the simplest things might be sitting right in your glass: that is, water. Drinking enough water is not only good for your body but also good for your skin.
Why does water matter for your skin?
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and like every organ, it needs hydration to work well. Adequate water helps keep skin plump and smooth, reduces dryness and flaking, and can soften the look of fine lines. When you’re dehydrated, your skin may look dull, feel itchy, and show lines more clearly.
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So how much water should you drink?
You’ve heard the “8 glasses a day” rule. It’s a decent starting point, but needs vary with body size, activity, weather, and diet. A simpler guide: aim for ~30–35 ml of water per kg of body weight (adjust up on hot days or when you’re more active). Listen to thirst and aim for light-yellow urine.
For example:
- If you weigh 60 kg → 60 × 30 ml = 1.8 litres
- If you weigh 70 kg → 70 × 30 ml = 2.1 litres
Signs you are not drinking enough water:
You might not be measuring your water intake every day, but your body will send signals when it’s thirsty. Some of the signs of dehydration include:
- Dry or tight skin
- Dull complexion
- Chapped lips
- Dark under-eye circles
- Headaches or fatigue
- Dry mouth
Tips to drink more water every day
If drinking enough water feels hard, try simple habits like keeping a glass by your bed and sipping it first thing in the morning, carrying a reusable bottle, and infusing water with lemon, cucumber, or berries for flavour. You can also choose to snack on water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and strawberries, and set gentle phone alarms or use a hydration app to nudge you through the day.
Does drinking more water result in glowing skin?
Your skin’s glow comes from a mix of:
- Good hydration
- Balanced diet
- Sun protection
- Enough sleep
- Proper skincare routine
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Can you drink too much water?
Overhydration is possible, though rare. Drinking excessive water in a short span can dilute blood sodium (water intoxication), seen more often in endurance athletes. The fix is simple: spread fluids throughout the day and follow your thirst. There’s no one-size target, but ~2 litres daily is a solid starting point for most adults; adjust for heat and activity. Paired with a balanced diet and sleep, steady hydration can leave skin looking fresher and more radiant.
