How to stay hydrated from top-to-toe this summer

If you ask me, staying hydrated is one of the most serious beauty and health battles Australians face during summer.

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The fact is, once you’re thirsty, it’s already too late – and don’t even get me started on the effects dehydration can have on your skin and eyes.

So put down your summer cocktails, beauties. The time has come for us to put H2O first. Here’s how to stay hydrated from top-to-toe, all summer long…

Hydration for inner health

The amount of water your body needs depends on several factors, including your weight, how active you are and where you live. As a general rule, the average male needs about 3 litres of water per day, while the average female needs about 2.2 litres. Can’t stomach the idea of drinking that much straight water? Try adding a slice of lemon or even a splash of sugar-free cordial to make it more palatable!

But wait, there’s more: With the party season well and truly underway, chances are your usual water consumption isn’t cutting it. Why? Well, an increased alcohol intake combined with sweaty d-floor antics leads to #nextlevel dehydration. To compensate for this, consider a supplement such as Hydrodol Hangover Relief or HYDRALYTE Orange Flavoured Electrolyte Powder (priceline.com.au). Not only are they formulated to help relieve your thirst, they’ll also help replace all the good nutrients that your body loses when you’re dehydrated.

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Hydration for your body

Body lotion is a hydration must, but don’t even think about slathering it on unless you’ve exfoliated first. Why? Well, dead skin cells will act as a barrier to your moisturiser, preventing it from penetrating your skin properly. So, get to work and slough them away with a refreshing body scrub such as Natio Wellness Body Scrub or Mary Kay® Satin Body® Revitalizing Shea Scrub – they smell ah-MAZING and will help prep your skin for the hydration hit to come!

For optimum results, apply your moisturiser straight after your shower, when your skin is still moist. Pat (rather than rub) your skin dry, then slather on your favourite luscious lotion. Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion is my top pick for its nourishing rosehip, avocado and jojoba oils!

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Hydration for your face

Remember what I said about exfoliating? Well, the same rule applies to your face. A micro-exfoliant is a good option, as unlike most face scrubs, they’re gentle enough for daily use. bh loves Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant ® and Trilogy Gentle Facial Exfoliant, which gently dissolve away excess surface cells for instantly smoother skin, without compromising your skin’s natural barrier.

Now that you’ve got your exfoliation sorted, your skin needs both oil and water to stay hydrated. Help lock in your skin’s moisture levels by mixing your daily moisturiser with a lightweight face oil, such as A'kin Certified Organic Rosehip Oil or Goodness Certified Organic Chia Seed Oil. Prone to breakouts? Swap your heavy face cream for a light moisturiser such as Bioré Nourish Moisture Lotion SPF 15, which is non-comedogenic (so it won’t block your pores).

To keep your complexion looking plump and pretty for longer, minimise your exposure to air conditioning. Sure, a fan may take a little longer to cool you down, but it’s a lot more skin-friendly!

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Hydration for your eyes

Those who suffer from dry eyes will understand the total agony of a hot, dry day. Particularly common in postmenopausal women and people with arthritis, dry eyes can also be caused by some medications and general health conditions. The worst part? As well as being mighty uncomfortable, the dryness can also damage the surface of the eyeball. Scary, amirite?!

Thankfully, there’s a simple solution for fast relief: eye drops. bh recommends Systane HYDRATION Lubricant Eye Drops (priceline.com.au), which contain hyaluronate to help relieve irritation and are also suitable for use with contact lenses. Prefer a spray formula? Optrex Actimist 2 in1 Tired & Uncomfortable Eye Spray (chemistwarehouse.com.au) is perfect for giving your peepers a quick refresher!

Do you have any other tips for staying hydrated this summer?

Image: @gwenythpaltrow

The product recommendations in this article have been updated to keep beautyheaven members informed of the most up-to-date related products.