More Water May Not Help Skin

 The claim: Drinking lots of water is good for your skin.

The facts: By now, the old saw about drinking eight glasses of water a day has been thoroughly debunked. However, a similar adage about excess water and healthy skin persists, even though there is no evidence that drinking anything more than recommended amounts of water is particularly beneficial to skin.

              A 2007 study on the effects of water consumption did show that drinking 500ml of water, about two cups, increased blood flow to the skin. A good sign, but there was no evidence that it reduced wrinkles or improve complexion.

              Dr. Margaret E. Parson, a spokesman for the American Academy of Dermatology, said: “if we are eating and drinking what we should, our bodies are healthier and therefore our skin as well.”

              Her advice? Always wear sunscreen, avoid cigarettes and eat well.

The bottom line: There is little evidence that excess water helps the skin.

- The New York Times