LOOKING GOOD: Take the heat out of summer with a spritz of spa water or a cooling water-based cream, writes Melanie Morris.
H2-Oh: At this stage, there probably isn't a person on the planet who isn't aware of the benefits of water on the skin - the body's largest organ. It keeps it moist and clear, calms facial puffiness, helps reduce bloating, detoxifies, and can even get rid of sluggish feelings.
Skin essentials: Because 72 per cent of the average body is made up of water (about 45 litres in a 70kg man), it makes sense that we need to keep feeding it with a constant, fresh supply. Yes, drink two litres a day of the still stuff, but also hydrate from the outside in, with products that keep the exposed layer soft and supple. Chanel's Hydramax and Clinique's Moisture Surge pump moisture into the face without feeling heavy or mask-like.
Spray on: These days, everyone seems to have an atomiser of water at their desk to keep faces dewy and cool. Shu Uemura's variously scented "Depsea Water" is so popular that it has recently launched a full skincare line based on its moisturising and revitalising properties. The products take a natural approach to establishing a healthy inherent moisture level by feeding the skin with plant-derived urea and seaweed longevity extract - natural moisture boosters.
Source material: La Roche-Possay, Vichy and Evian are spa towns in France. Hardly surprising then, that they have incorporated their greatest asset into beauty products. La Roche-Possay's water is high in selenium - recognised for its soothing, decongesting and anti-itching properties. Vichy's thermal spring water contains 17 minerals and 13 trace elements, making it a "living" water that stimulates the skin's defence mechanisms. Evian has recently launched a range of vitamin-rich cleansers and moisturisers that energise skin cells.
Oil free: In cosmetics, water-based products are ideal for oily complexions, feeding the skin without overloading it. Water-based foundations such as MAC'S Face and Body make-up give good coverage and keep a shiny T-zone at bay.
Magic moments: Water is also a key ingredient in Prescriptives Magic Liquid Powder, a product that feels wet but is in fact a powder. Designed to minimise pores and fine lines by imparting an iridescent glow to skin, it's also cooling and refreshing when dusted on with a brush.