how much water should i drink for clear skin - #20769
I am noticing that my skin has been looking a bit dull and I keep hearing that drinking water can help. Like, how much water should I drink for clear skin? I’ve tried drinking more but sometimes I forget, or I get busy and just grab coffee instead. Last week, I went to a dermatologist, and she mentioned hydration being key for skin health, but she didn’t really give specifics on how much water I should drink for clear skin. My friends say at least 8 glasses a day, while others talk about drinking half their body weight in ounces, which sounds crazy to me. Is there really a specific amount of water that I need to aim for? I read a couple articles saying that being dehydrated can make your skin look worse, and I feel like I might be contributing to my skin issues. Plus, I get these random breakouts that come and go, which makes me worried. Sometimes I feel like I’m just not doing enough, ya know? If I start drinking more, like how much water should I drink for clear skin? Is there a magic number or is it more about listening to your body? Would love to get your thoughts!
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Doctors' responses
When it comes to drinking water for clear skin, there’s no universal magic number, and individual needs can vary. Generally, the “8 glasses a day” rule is a reasonable starting point, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. The right amount can depend on your age, activity level, climate, and health conditions. Inadequate water intake can contribute to dehydration, which might make your skin look dull, but drinking beyond your body’s needs won’t necessarily clear up skin issues like acne or breakouts. The suggestion to drink half your body weight in ounces is more specific, but it may not be required for everyone. Typical recommendations suggest about 2.7 liters (91 ounces) per day for women and 3.7 liters (125 ounces) per day for men, which includes all beverages and food.
Hydration does play a critical role in maintaining skin elasticity and flushing toxins, but balancing your diet, managing stress, and proper skincare also matter. If remembering to drink water is challenging, try carrying a water bottle, setting reminders, or choosing water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Dehydration can contribute to skin issues, but remember, persistent breakouts might be more related to hormonal changes, stress, or other factors. There’s no harm in aiming for a higher intake if you’re comfortable, but forcing excessive amounts isn’t necessary. Taking a comprehensive approach to skincare, which includes keeping hydrated, is generally more effective than relying solely on water intake. If specific skin concerns persist, continuing to consult with a dermatologist can provide further insight tailored to your situation.
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