Does Drinking Water Help with Acne?
by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated January 20, 2025
In Canada, many people struggle with acne at various stages of life. Whether you’re dealing with the occasional breakout or persistent skin issues, finding the right solution can be overwhelming. While skincare products and medications often take the spotlight, there’s one simple, cost-effective remedy that’s often overlooked: drinking water.
But does drinking water help with acne? In this blog, we’ll dive deep into how hydration affects your skin and if drinking water really makes a difference in acne prevention and treatment.
The Link Between Water and Acne: How Hydration Affects Your Skin
We all know that water is essential for our overall health, but did you know it plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin ? Hydration impacts your body’s ability to flush out toxins, regulate oil production, and maintain a healthy complexion. All of these factors are essential when it comes to acne prevention and healing.
Water Helps Balance Your Skin’s Oil Production
Your skin produces sebum, a natural oil that helps protect and lubricate your skin. However, when your body is dehydrated, it may produce excess sebum in an attempt to compensate for the lack of moisture.
This excess oil can clog pores, leading to acne breakouts. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated, thus preventing the overproduction of oil that can lead to acne.

Water Detoxifies Your Body
One of the main causes of acne is the buildup of toxins and impurities in the body. These toxins can come from a variety of sources such as food, pollution, and even stress. Drinking water is one of the best ways to help flush these toxins out of your system. When your body is properly hydrated, it’s more efficient at eliminating waste, which reduces the chances of clogged pores and skin flare-ups.
How Much Water Should You Drink to See Results for Acne?
Now that we’ve covered the relationship between water and acne, let’s talk about the practical side of things: how much water do you need to drink to see results?
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Recommended Daily Water Intake for Clear Skin
The general rule of thumb is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, often referred to as the “8x8 rule.” However, some experts recommend more based on factors like age, activity level, and climate. In Canada, where winters can be harsh and skin tends to become drier, it’s especially important to drink enough water to maintain moisture in the skin.
If you’re struggling with acne, aim to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water a day. You can also adjust based on your individual needs, but remember that consistency is key. Hydrating your body consistently will have a noticeable impact on your skin’s appearance over time.
Other Benefits of Drinking Water for Acne-Prone Skin
While drinking water is important for hydration, it also has a number of other benefits that can help clear up acne. Let’s explore some of the other ways water can contribute to healthy, glowing skin.

Promotes Healthy Cell Regeneration
Drinking enough water encourages healthy cell turnover, which is essential for maintaining clear skin. When you’re dehydrated, your skin may become dry, flaky, and more prone to clogged pores . Staying hydrated helps your body create new, healthy skin cells, which can improve the appearance of acne and reduce scarring.
Reduces Inflammation
Acne is often associated with inflammation, which causes redness and swelling around pimples. Proper hydration helps reduce inflammation by flushing out excess sodium and supporting healthy circulation. This can minimize the severity of acne flare-ups and prevent future breakouts.
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Helps Maintain a Balanced pH Level
Water helps regulate the pH levels of your skin, ensuring it stays balanced and healthy. When your skin’s pH is too acidic or alkaline, it can lead to an overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria. Drinking water helps maintain an optimal pH level, preventing bacterial growth and promoting clear skin.
Drinking Water vs. Skincare Products: Which Is More Effective for Acne?
While drinking water can have a positive effect on acne, it’s important to remember that it’s not a magic solution. Acne can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, and external irritants. Skincare products can also be incredibly effective in treating acne when used properly.

Combining Water with a Skincare Routine
To get the best results, it’s essential to combine water with a proper skincare routine. A gentle cleanser, acne treatment serum, and non-comedogenic moisturizer should be part of your daily regimen. Drinking water can support the health of your skin from the inside, while topical treatments work on the surface.
For Canadians, particularly those facing harsh winters, it’s important to find a skincare routine that not only targets acne but also helps protect your skin from dryness caused by the cold weather. Hydration is key here, both inside and out.
Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Water for Acne-Prone Skin
If you’re looking to maximize the benefits of water for your skin, here are a few tips to help you stay on track:
Drink Water with Lemon
Adding a splash of lemon to your water can provide additional benefits. Lemon is rich in Vitamin C, which is known for its skin-healing properties. It also helps cleanse the digestive system, which can reduce acne flare-ups caused by internal issues. Just be careful not to add too much sugar or sweeteners.
Use a Water Filter
If you’re in Canada, tap water quality can vary depending on your location. Using a water filter to remove impurities from your drinking water can help ensure that you’re not consuming harmful chemicals that could affect your skin. Waterdrop filters, for example, are an excellent choice to get clean, purified water that’s gentle on your skin.
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Stay Consistent
The key to clear skin is consistency. Make drinking water a daily habit and stick to it. It may take a few weeks before you notice visible changes in your skin, but staying hydrated will improve your overall skin health over time.
The Importance of Drinking Water for Acne-Free Skin
While drinking water alone isn’t a cure-all for acne, it plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. By helping to balance oil production, detoxify your body, and promote healthy skin regeneration, water can reduce the severity of acne and prevent future breakouts. Along with a proper skincare routine, adequate hydration can be a simple yet powerful solution for clearer, smoother skin.
So, if you’re looking for a natural, affordable way to improve your skin’s health, make sure to drink enough water every day. Whether you’re living in Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal, staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your skin.