Tips for Hydration in Summer Heat Apply to Skin Too

The summer heat even in the sunny dry heat of Southern California can be brutal to the body and the skin. According to a recent Los Angeles Times article it is very important that people hydrate their body to avoid serious health concerns. According to the article some drinks prove to be better for our health than others and some people need more fluids in the system to stay healthy according to says Dr. Marc I. Leavey, an internist at Mercy Medical Center and Lutherville Personal Physicians. For dehydration that comes as a result of exercise combined with heat cool water is the best option. If the dehydration as a result of total fluid loss for example from diarrhea or vomiting then an electrolyte solution or drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte can be useful when used as the package guidelines direct. However; most adults do well with water only. Salt tablets are not recommended as they can lead to hypernatremia or too much salt in the body. Energy drinks are not recommended. They contain excessive amounts of caffeine which in turn stimulate the kidney to produce excessive urine when exercising which causes even more dehydration. They can also cause the same reaction as a laxative when exercising which of course would have undesirable effects. When heat and exercise are combined the pulse rate often rise and the caffeine in energy drinks pushes it even higher which can be extremely dangerous at high-levels. Just as the body needs to be hydrated; such is the same for the skin. Dr. Kim advises patients to utilize medical grade skin care products to maintain a healthy balance in the appearance and texture of the skin. Skin that you is exposed to extreme heat without lack of moisture is subject to premature aging. Dr. Kim uses expertise for facial rejuvenation procedures including facelift, brow lift, and blepharoplasty.