In this edition of HT Lifestyle’s ‘Internet Vs Reality’, we spoke to Dr Swetha Sridhar, medical director at Dr Swetha’s Skin Sutra Clinic, to separate fact from fiction and understand whether drinking more water can really give your skin a natural glow.
Celebrities like Kareena Kapoor and many more have said that drinking water gives them a naturally glowing skin, making the trend popular online.
Dr Swetha highlighted that the amount of water a person needs depends on several factors, including age, body size, physical activity , climate, diet and underlying health conditions. Water obtained from food, including fruits and vegetables, also contributes to daily fluid intake. It is equally important to understand that skin health is influenced by several factors beyond hydration. Genetics, hormonal changes , sun exposure, sleep quality, stress, nutrition and skincare practices all play a role. Excessive ultraviolet exposure, for instance, contributes significantly to premature ageing, pigmentation and skin damage. Drinking more water cannot reverse these effects or substitute for sun protection. A gentle cleanser and an appropriate moisturiser can also help maintain the skin barrier. People with persistent dryness, acne, pigmentation or other skin concerns should seek advice from a dermatologist rather than relying on increased water consumption alone.
Because of increased sweating, in a hot and humid country like India, people who spend considerable time outdoors or exercise regularly may require more fluids. Therefore, three litres should not be treated as a mandatory target for everyone.
“For healthier skin , I recommend maintaining adequate hydration according to individual needs, following a balanced diet with sufficient protein, vitamins and healthy fats, getting adequate sleep and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher,” said Dr Swetha.
