Keep showers cool to prevent TEWL. For those unfamiliar, TEWL stands for trans epidermal water loss, which just means the evaporation of water from the surface of the skin to the air. In short, TEWL is something we try and avoid. The more water that evaporates from the surface of the skin, the more dry, inflexible, and prone to irritation and damage our skin becomes.
Water is also an important player in forming the skins' moisture barrier. That’s what protects skin and keeps it plump. There are a number of factors that can influence TEWL including age, environment, diet, and skin care products. Because of this, there are many ways to help keep the skin hydrated, but a quick way to keep your skin quenched is to simply turn down the temp of your water.
Studies show that washing and showering in hot water, compared to cool water, significantly reduces the amount of water in the skin. Hot water can cause the skins' natural oils to dissociate, leaving the skin more vulnerable to water evaporation.
A simple solution is to shower in cooler water, and apply Consonant Body Lotion or Ultra Moisturizing Organic Face Cream to damp skin immediately after washing. This will both help prevent the loss of natural oils, and help seal water into your skin. Happy hydrating!