Water intake improves skin tone: Myth busted

Although the intake of water is vital for a healthy body, there is no direct relationship between the amount you drink and your skin’s ‘glow’.

Research by the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) for its “Food for Skin” report found no clinical evidence to back the common belief that increased intake of water improves skin tone, hence people need not worry about having the recommended eight glasses of water daily.

The BNF declares, “There currently appears to be very little scientific evidence relating to the effects of water consumption on skin hydration, and whether drinking more or less water actually has any impact on skin appearance.”

Balanced diet and sunscreen effective for healthy skin
According to scientists, a balanced diet and sunscreen are more effective in keeping the skin young and glowing.

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins A, B, C and E that help in maintaining the elasticity of the skin keeping it supple and healthy. A balanced diet can keep problems at bay such as scurvy, dermatitis, dry scaly skin and age related damage.

Heather Yuregir a nutrition scientist and author of the report stated, “Just drinking water for the sake of drinking water really has no effect on improving the appearance of skin. It is just a common misconception.”

She further added, “Fruit and veg can keep your skin functioning as it should and keep it looking healthy.

“And sun cream is really recommended to prevent the signs of ageing because the majority of the signs of ageing that appear on the skin are caused by sun damage.”

Water good for general health
Health experts say that water is essential for nearly all body functions. It lubricates the body from the inside out, works as an appetite suppressant, and helps clean out toxins from body parts like the kidney.

But the power of water to clear up the complexion appears to be questionable. A mixture of things like a healthy diet and exercise combined with water can help the body and skin look and feel great but water alone cannot work miracles.

"In light of the popular belief that water does indeed benefit skin health, there is an obvious need for more research in this area," the report adds.