Every day 4-8 oz. of water evaporates through the skin, and we



don't even notice how it happens. Replenishing water by

drinking more fluids is helpful, but does not guarantee smooth

and resilient skin. Moisture balance is regulated by chemical

reactions in tissues, and is not directly related to the amount

of water you drink.

If we could apply water topically, it would not help much

either. Skin does feel soft and moisturized right after a bath:

it happens because the horny layer (the outermost

skin layer), which is formed by dead skin cells, absorbs water.

During a bath up to 2 oz. of water can be absorbed by the skin.

But this water is not allowed any deeper than the surface

cells. Later, within 10 minutes, all this water evaporates,

leaving skin dry again.

Human skin has its own mechanism to prevent moisture loss. Our

skin cells work hard to create a protective layer. This layer

consists of oils, aminoacids, sugar compounds and other

elements, either water or oil soluble. All together they bind

with water and don't let it evaporate. Water that is not

allowed to leave skin surface is absorbed by the horny layer

cells. The skin becomes softer, smoother and more flexible.

Hot or cold air, low humidity, frequent contacts with water or

cleansing solutions ruin the protective layer, and skin loses

its natural ability to hold moisture. When water level in the

skin drops by 10%, the skin becomes dry, itchy and flaky.

As we age, skin's protection mechanism slows down and skin

becomes dry. In some people dry skin is inherited genetically.

Even though the outermost skin layer is made of dead cells, we

have to take care of it. The primary function of the horny

layer is protection of deeper skin layers, where new cells are

born. Regular use of hydrating creams helps to prevent water

loss, restore moisture balance and elasticity of the outer skin

layer and help it do its job.

Oils, mucopolysaccharides, and fatty acids are widely used in

cosmetics to prevent water loss. The most effective cosmetic

ingredients for this purpose are liposomes, ceramides and

sphingolipids.

Liposomes are microscopic spheres that can be used to

encapsulate water, vitamins or other beneficial ingredients.

Because these elements are similar in structure to cell

membrane, they are easily utilized by the skin. They can

penetrate skin surface, bind with it and release the substances

they carry.

Ceramides and Sphingolipids are the elements that hold skin

cells together so that the environment can not get in and the

moisture can not get out. Lipids are lost with age, and the

moisture barrier is weakened. Research shows that applying

ceramides topically has the effect of generating ceramide

production in the skin, thereby increasing the lipid content

and reinforcing the protective barrier.

Look for creams with the above ingredients to keep your skin in

its best condition and defy aging.

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