Skin Tips That Actually Work

Did you know that drinking loads of water doesn't necessarily make your skin better? Well, it's true. While proper hydration is key for keeping your skin healthy, overhydrating doesn't do any good. So what can you do to get clearer, fresher skin without slathering on a ton of creams? Here are four easy solutions:

Cut down on the sugar. No one's telling you to give up sweet stuff altogether, but processed sugar can contribute to the breakdown of collagen, making your skin dull and less taut.

Take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement. Whether it's flaxseed, fish oil, or borage, fatty acids help keep your skin's lipid barrier healthy. This is especially important if you have dry or acne-prone skin. Plus, many of us (especially vegetarians and those who don't eat seafood) don't get nearly enough of them.

Get enough vitamin C. Vitamin C is known to help retard cell damage, keeping your skin less prone to pigmentation issues and wrinkles. So make sure to stock up on C-rich foods, like citrus fruits or supplements.

Cool down your shower water. Don't freeze yourself out, but using tepid or warm water, although less satisfying than a hot shower, is better for your skin's hydration levels and can even help prevent inflammation. It might sound counterintuitive, but all that water actually dehydrates you. Spending less time in the shower or bath is another good fix—you'll be saving yourself some money and helping keep your skin calm and soft.