The Best Drink To Stay Hydrated & Keep Your Skin Radiant (It's Not Water)

Drinking enough water is one of the nonnegotiables of radiant skin thanks to its hydrating powers (along with sun protection and a good — though not necessarily complex — skincare regimen). However, a 2016 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that one common beverage leads to more efficient fluid retention than water. Good old-fashioned dairy milk has entered the chat. 

"Milk is surprisingly effective as a hydration source because of its unique nutrient profile," explains dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman. Speaking exclusively to Glam, Dr. Kopelman notes that milk is rich in "vitamins like B12 and riboflavin, along with amino acids that support skin cell repair and regeneration" in addition to providing hydration. "It contains electrolytes like potassium and sodium, plus carbohydrates and protein — all of which help slow down how quickly fluids leave the stomach. This slower gastric emptying allows the body to absorb and retain the fluid more efficiently compared to water alone," she tells us. The dermatologist adds that this characteristic means that milk can even be more hydrating than some sports drinks. The legends about Cleopatra's milk baths are starting to make more sense!

Milk being utilized as part of a skincare plan isn't entirely surprising, especially when you consider the incredible benefits of goat milk soap for your skin. But is simply drinking more milk the key to achieving a more glowing complexion? Dr. Kopelman advises us that, unfortunately, it's a little more complicated than that. 

To a certain extent, regularly drinking milk can enhance overall hydration and, thus, your skin's radiance, but Dr. Hannah Kopelman clarifies, "As a dermatologist, I often remind patients that internal hydration does play a role in skin health — though it's just one piece of the puzzle." She exclusively tells Glam that consistent dairy milk ingestion "can contribute to healthier, more radiant skin when combined with a solid skincare routine," but it's hardly a one-size-fits-all solution. "That said, I'm cautious about recommending milk universally. In patients with dairy sensitivities, hormonal acne, or inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, dairy can sometimes be a trigger," she explains.

Even if you don't have a dairy sensitivity, an inflammatory skin condition, or ethical reasons for not wanting to drink dairy milk, it's not so powerful that you can neglect your skincare routine. "Drinking milk ... [is] a great source of essential nutrients that support the skin barrier and overall health," Dr. Kopelman adds. "However, for optimal results, hydration should be approached holistically — combining topical care, a nutrient-rich diet, and consistent water intake. Also, for those avoiding dairy, plant-based alternatives like oat or soy milk are often fortified with comparable vitamins and minerals."

Upping your milk intake might boost your glow, but you'll still need a bare-minimum skincare routine to give you results. And don't forget that the "glass" skin you see on social media is often the work of filters or products. If you're staying hydrated, keeping healthy, and looking after your skin, creams and liquids are the best makeup products to use for the dewiest skin of your life.