Hydration Hacks

Think keeping the skin and body hydrated takes too much effort? Not when you know how to do it right. From simple lifestyle tweaks to skincare TLC, this article’s got all the tips for hassle-free hydration this winter season.

Our bodies are made up of approximately 60% water, and every cell, organ, and tissue needs it to function properly. Failing to stay hydrated can lead to numerous side effects, including reduced cognitive function and exercise performance, as well as low energy levels and poor skin health.

Even if you’ve got a busy schedule, keeping your body and skin hydrated shouldn’t be a hassle, and just a few simple hacks can make all the difference.

Topical Hydration

1. On-the-go moisturisers

If you regularly moisturise in the mornings, this should keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. Some of us have drier skin than others, and this might require more frequent moisturisation. Bulldog’s travel size moisturiser is designed to fit in your bag or pocket for easy application, wherever the day takes you. It’s also formulated with aloe vera, providing soothing, hydrating, and antioxidant properties.

 2. Lip balms 

Harsh winter weather can sap moisture from your lips, leaving them feeling chapped and cracked. Strong wind, certain medications, and the poor habit of biting your lips can exacerbate this, so getting yourself a trusted lip balm goes a long way. We recommend frequent use throughout the day, but the real trick is to apply it before going to bed, since our lips tend to get extra dry overnight.

3. Hand creams

Just like your face, hands are directly exposed to cold air, and this means they require the same level of TLC. You might want to consider wearing gloves, however, for optimal protection, we recommend investing in a good quality hand cream. Designed specifically for hydrating the body, they usually come in packaging small enough to take with you for easy, all-day application.

Hydrating From Within

 1. Start your mornings with water. And lots of it.

Our bodies tend to get parched while we sleep, so before reaching for that morning cup of tea or coffee, do yourself a favour and gulp down a big glass of water for instant hydration. You can also get yourself a reusable water bottle with an infuser to add extra water-rich foods like watermelon and cucumber, as well as other berries packed with vitamins and antioxidants. No added sugars, no dull flavour, just pure hydration from the moment you wake up.

 2. Herbal infusions 

Even if you’re more of a coffee kind-of-guy, having at least one cup of soothing herbal tea (such as chamomile or peppermint) provides calming and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit your skin and body’s overall health.

 3. Soups 

Soups are often underrated, and some people think they’re just too much hassle to bring along wherever the day leads you. But hey, as long as there’s a microwave around, you’re all set, and there’s no reason to pass up on the great health perks that they offer. Besides keeping you hydrated, they can give your immune system a boost, which is crucial for the winter months. 

Lifestyle Tweaks

 1. Get a humidifier

In winter, indoor heating is notorious for causing dry air, resulting in issues like nose and throat irritation, sinus problems, and severely dry skin. Getting a humidifier for your bedroom helps add moisture to the air, creating a more comfortable environment for sleeping, reduced congestion, and better skin health.

 2. Limit hot showers

Hot showers feel great, there’s no doubt about that. But they also tend to bring along some downsides such as itchy skin, as well as flare ups for those with eczema and psoriasis. For healthier skin, aim for lukewarm water, decrease your shower time, and apply body lotion immediately after to lock in moisture.

 3. Everyday sun protection 

UV rays cause damage to the skin’s natural barrier, both on sunny and cloudy days. This leads to increased water loss, dryness, and flakiness. Applying SPF as part of your regular skincare routine is a crucial part to keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day. For optimal defence with minimal fuss, opt for an SPF-infused moisturiser. Fewer steps in your skincare routine, maximum protection.  

Simple Hacks, Big Impact

With these easy hydration hacks at your disposal, you should be all set for optimal cold-air defence this winter season. If you’re looking for further tips on winter-proofing your skincare routine, you can check them out in one of our recent articles here.