1. Drink Water

Duh, right? Drinking lots of water is really important for many parts of your body, and that includes your skin. Instead of relying on the age old advice that you need to drink eight glasses every day, drink when you are thirsty and make sure your urine looks light yellow. Water is one of the best ways to hydrate your skin, so be sure you make a point to sip regularly.

2. Use Lotion

Lotions and creams are perfect for adding moisture back into your skin. You should always slather it on after your shower when your skin is damp, but putting it on morning and night is a great idea. You can put lotion on your hands and feet as often as you need to, but make sure to cover the rest of your body twice a day for the best hydration benefits.

3. Use a Humidifier

A humidifier might be something you only drag out when you are sick, but the truth is that it can really help dry skin too. Especially in the winter when heated air dries out your living space, sucking the moisture from your skin. Run a humidifier when you’re home and you can put that moisture back, keeping your entire body hydrated and healthy.

4. Eat Right

Your skin needs healthy foods for the nutrients they offer. By including water rich foods in your meal plan, you effectively increase the amount of fluids you take in each day. Much like drinking plenty of water, this can help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Good choices include watermelon, cucumber, lettuce and citrus fruits. You can count water filled foods as part of your daily fluid intake.

5. Skin Masks

You can find lots of facial skin masks at drug stores, but a good body mask is a great idea now and then too. You can do one at home by making your own hydrating product. Or, you can make an appointment at your favorite salon for a relaxing and pampering treatment that will hydrate your entire body.

6. Use Water-Based Products

Skincare experts suggest using water-based products as part of your morning skincare routine. They will add moisture back into your skin and provide hydration benefits throughout the day. Save your oil-based skincare products for your nighttime routine. That way you benefit from them as well. Talk to your dermatologist about the right ones for you.

7. Boost Vitamin Intake

Increasing your intake of vitamins C and E helps your body hold on to moisture, keeping you hydrated. Vitamin C is abundant in citrus fruits, kiwis, bell peppers and strawberries. Vitamin E is found in nuts, seeds and salmon. Talk to your doctor about your levels and consider a supplement to fill any gaps in your intake.

How do you hydrate your skin? I always put moisturizer on morning and night and never go without sunscreen when I’ll be outside. What other ideas do you have?