The fountain of youth has always been elusive, but does it have to be? While, no, we can’t turn back time, we can stop the clock on the aging process.
We all know water is essential, but did you know that our skin needs a little extra help?
With so many benefits to having hydrated skin, it’s no wonder why a lot of people are turning to electrolyte beauty products for better, healthier skin.
You’re probably familiar with the term ‘electrolytes,’ but what exactly are they, and why should you be drinking them for beauty?
Here, we’ll give you the lowdown on electrolytes, how they can hydrate and keep your skin looking good, and how to infuse them into your routine.
What are electrolytes: the basics
We tend to be a little lax on the electrolyte front, but without them, we’d be dead. Electrolytes are salts found in the body and are responsible for maintaining fluid balance, acid-base balance, and regulating nerve impulses, among other things.
The most common electrolytes in our bodies are calcium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, and sodium, and our bodies need a steady supply of them to function properly. A good, nutritious diet fills you up with electrolytes.
Good health requires the right amount of electrolytes, but you can have too much or too little. An imbalance can lead to serious health problems. That’s why it’s important to eat a balanced diet and see your doctor if your electrolyte levels are off.
What’s electrolyte skincare?
In this world of increasingly sophisticated skincare routines, many of us have started using “electrolyte skincare” as an add-on to our morning and night routines. But what is it?
A “beauty electrolyte” is a term used in skincare to refer to products designed to replace lost water content in the skin through electrolyte replenishment. The theory is that our skin doesn’t just need water; it needs the right electrolytes, too.
You can also look for skincare products that contain electrolytes like hyaluronic acid or sodium PCA. By attracting and retaining moisture, these ingredients prevent dry, dehydrated skin.
Electrolyte skincare makes sense if you’re looking for a gentle, affordable way to maintain good skin. Also, it’s a good option if you’re allergic to traditional ingredients.
Why you need it
Being the largest organ, the skin contains around 30% water which contributes to softness, elasticity, and overall suppleness and radiance. When we add electrolytes, it retains even more water.
Dehydration is a common cause of dry, sensitive skin. Because the skin constantly loses water through sweat and other means, it is particularly vulnerable to electrolyte imbalances.
Without enough electrolytes, it’s hard for skin cells to regenerate properly, leading to a dull, uneven complexion. Then, it can’t properly protect itself from the environment and is more susceptible to damage.
But the good news is electrolytes support skin hydration, protect against environmental stressors, and promote a healthy turnover of skin cells.
The benefits
While many people know the benefits of electrolytes in general, few realize their skincare benefits. It’s time to talk about them!
Maintains hydration levels
When the skin is hydrated, it is less likely to experience dryness, irritation, or congestion. Electrolytes help maintain the body’s water balance by regulating the movement of water between the cells. This, in turn, helps to draw water from the blood into the cells, maintaining hydration within the cells.
Increases skin elasticity
The ability of the skin to maintain its elasticity depends on the presence of healthy levels of collagen and elastin, compounds that give skin its structure. Electrolytes attract and hold water to the skin and stimulate the production of these proteins, making skin taut and more youthful.
Reduces the aging signs
It’s a fact that dry skin looks more wrinkled. Aging triggers dry skin and ultimately, the breakdown of collagen. When collagen breaks down, wrinkles and fine lines start to appear. This is why adequate moisturization is important since it plumps skin which automatically makes the aging signs look less prominent.
May help with acne
While the evidence isn’t enough, electrolytes may help clear up acne in many ways. First of all, they reduce skin inflammation. It can clear up acne before it worsens and can also prevent new acne from forming. Also, electrolytes regulate skin oil production to help clear up excess oil and dirt that contribute to acne. Lastly, electrolytes can help balance your skin’s chemistry, which can help clear up acne.
Restores a healthy skin barrier
Electrolytes bind to the water in the skin and provide a layer of protection. As a result, it can help restore a healthy skin barrier by providing the skin with the nutrients it needs to heal itself. This helps to reduce inflammation and improve hydration, ultimately promoting skin health.
Enhances skin texture and tone
Toxins can build up in the skin and cause inflammation, triggering skin conditions such as acne, blemishes, and unevenness. Having good circulation ensures that nutrients and oxygen reach the skin cells while removing waste products. By eliminating toxins, electrolytes help keep your skin looking great. Also, the skin appears plumper and younger.
Maintains a beautiful skin
Beautiful skin is not just about using the right products—it’s also about maintaining a proper electrolyte balance. When you have enough electrolytes in your system, they help keep your skin plump and healthy. They also help keep your skin’s barrier function strong, so your skin can better protect itself from environmental stressors and damage. In the long run, electrolytes can help to keep your skin looking its best.
How to Infuse Electrolytes into your Beauty Routine
Whether it’s drinking water, taking a shower, or applying moisturizer, staying hydrated is a top priority. Here are a few different ways to replenish electrolytes in your body.
Drink more fluids
Make sure to drink eight glasses of water a day, and add electrolyte-rich beverages like sports drinks or coconut water to your diet to replenish lost fluids.
Skincare electrolyte drinks
Beauty electrolyte drinks can add much-needed hydration. Pique’s BT Foundation is our favorite beauty elixir because it contains stellar ingredients and is an excellent value. It’s a fine way to get much-needed vitamins and hydration into your skin, but the best reason to try it out is the unique flavor, much like a refreshing summer beverage. Compared to more traditional salt-and-soda electrolyte drinks, this one’s packed with ingredients like clinically-proven ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and potassium, and it can help skin retain moisture better than other drinks.
Electrolyte-rich foods
Electrolyte-rich foods are a great way to improve your diet and get the nutrients you need to feel healthy and energetic. To get gorgeous skin, eat these foods:
- Drink coconut water or watermelon juice throughout the day
- Eat a banana or orange with breakfast
- Drink a glass of tomato juice with lunch
- Have bone broth for dinner
- Snack on spinach leaves or carrots dipped in lemon juice
- Consume smoothies made of milk or yogurt
You can also find electrolytes in sports drinks and supplements, but be sure to check the labels carefully, as some can be high in sugar and other additives.
Skincare products
Many beauty companies are now offering electrolyte-rich serums, creams, and masks. When applied topically, regular use of these products leaves the skin supple and glowy while fully nourished.
Each of these ways to infuse electrolytes into your beauty routine has its own benefits for you, depending on what you need.
The takeaway
When your skin gets dry, it really shows. It’s also annoying to remind yourself to drink enough water all the time.
What electrolytes do inside your skin, moisturizers can’t. Whether it’s drinking beauty electrolytes for the skin or eating a nutritious diet, incorporating electrolytes into your beauty routine can give your skin a boost.
So, feed your body the electrolytes it needs, and you will be one step closer to healthy, beautiful skin.