Reveal soft, silky skin - Want a clear, youthful-looking complexion? Just add water.

Tap into the benefits

Lessen lines "Water plumps and smooths, temporarily improving the appearance of wrinkles," says Fran E. Cook-Bolden, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. In products, humectants (hyaluronic acid or glycerin) draw moisture from the air to the skin's surface like a magnet. (Try SkinMedica Hydrating Complex serum.)

Rev up repair Over time, free radicals, pollution and inflammation damage skin cells' outer layer, siphoning out their water supply—and your radiance. Hydrators packed with ceramides and lipids seep into skin to coat and protect individual cells, preventing the water loss that leads to a rough, irritated texture.

Feed your face "Eighty percent of hydration should come from internal sources," says Howard Murad, M.D., a derm in Los Angeles, who suggests eating raw water-rich fruit and veggies (like strawberries and spinach) daily. "Their water molecules are grouped in small clusters and are absorbed quickly by the body," he says.

Avoid the washouts

Build a barrier. A long, steamy shower or bath is good for the soul but not your skin. Soaking in hot water dissolves natural oils. "As droplets evaporate off skin, they draw water from the inside out, too," Dr. Cook-Bolden says. Apply cream on damp skin to seal in moisture and help it penetrate beneath skin's surface.

Go gentle. Washing with harsh sudsers such as many sodium lauryl sulfates can strip skin's top layer. Guard glow-bestowing moisture by switching to hydrating cleansers that contain glycerin, shea butter or essential fatty acids. (Try Dove Nutrium Moisture Body Washes.)

Start with a clean slate. If your tap water has lots of minerals like calcium and magnesium (a yellow-rimmed tub is a telltale sign), chances are, it's not washing all the cleanser off your face, Dr. Cook-Bolden says. Residue can cause irritation, so wipe it off with an alcohol-free toner.

Tip

Post-beach, drench alligator skin—arms, elbows and legs can get flaky because they have few oil glands—with a thick cream or body oil, such as L'Occitane Honey Miel & Lemon Citron Softening Oil. Lotions that contain mostly water evaporate rapidly and can dry out skin.