a day of hydration
Ever feel like your skin is tight and dull? You’re probably just dehydrated. Every once in awhile when I notice my skin is feeling dry and depleted, I like to do what I call a Day of Hydration. This is a one-day skin replenishment bootcamp to purge toxins and quench thirsty skin in just one day using only water or water-based foods. It’s a good way to hit the reset button on your skin care and start with fresh, rejuvenated skin. Today I’m mapping out the steps I take hour-by-hour to go from dull to dewy in a day.
Photo by Linus Nylund
8:00am I start my morning by having a cup of hot tea. Yogi makes an amazing blend of cinnamon and vanilla called “Healthy Skin Tea” that is one of my favorites. It’s caffeine-free but if you need that caffeine boost, stick to caffeinated green teas that will still give you the added nutrients that are great for your skin.
9:00am While drinking my tea, I usually give myself a mini facial that focuses on adding hydration. This includes using rosewater toners, hyaluronic serums, and hydration masks. Some of my favorite hydration day masks are Origins Overnight Thirst Quenching Mask and Aveda’s Hydration Masque.
10:00am I find I’m most productive in the morning, so I like to get all of work done first thing. During this time, I fill up my 24oz water bottle with ice-cold water and try to finish it before lunchtime.
10:30am By now, I’m usually getting hungry for some breakfast if I didn’t eat already. When dealing with your food intake for the day it’s best to stick to water-rich foods. For breakfast, try a bowl of mixed fruit like raspberries, strawberries, and pineapple.
12:00pm Around noon, I typically will have gone through 24oz of water, sometimes more. Now it’s time for lunch. Again, you want to stick to water-rich foods and if you are adding foods that aren’t as water-rich as fruits and veggies, just be sure you are eating foods with a lower sodium content.
2:00pm After lunch I continue hydrating by drinking some fruit or veggie infused water. This gives my water a little flavor and adds some nutrients to it. My favorite water infusions are; water with lemon, orange or lime, and water infused with cucumbers. These are super refreshing and a great pick me up for that afternoon lull.
5:00pm With the day coming to an end, I like to settle in by having a cup of Chamomile tea and eating a lot of water-rich veggies for dinner.
Photo by Drew Taylor
The point of this hydration day is to act as a detox and purge the skin of any unhealthy toxins that are trapped beneath the surface. Water and water-based foods will flush out the skin and create a healthy glow and provide necessary hydration for optimal skin health. Next time you’re think your skin is feeling a little lackluster, get intentional about your hydration routine. A day of hydration may be just what the esthetician ordered.