To get gorgeous skin, it's time to think about your hide in a whole new way.

Most of us treat our skin the way we do our ovens: we count on it to function properly, then assault it with harsh chemicals when we suddenly notice what a mess it is.

The news in dermatological circles (yes, we hang with some wild crowds) involves a major shift in thinking about your skin. In a nutshell, we focus too much on getting rid of bad stuff rather than adding good stuff. New research reveals that simply moisturising more often can cure just about any skin problem.


The great barrier
The good news: extra moisture can fortify a weak defence and help your skin fight back. But, bizarrely, there's no connection between drinking water and scoring Heidi Klum's complexion.

"The belief that drinking water is good for your skin is probably the biggest myth going," says Dr Jeffrey Dover, associate professor of clinical dermatology at the Yale University School of Medicine. Unless you're very dehydrated, water passes through the body too quickly to have much effect on your skin.

And washing? Don't expect that to help either. Too much scrubbing is as problematic as too little. So if you're always squeaky clean and have breakouts or irritation, using less soap and water may help. Lay off astringents and treat your skin to a gentle, soap-free cleanser.


Hydration helpers
But there are ways to control damage. Firstly, turn down your shower temperature. And blot yourself dry rather than rubbing because too much friction fractures skin cells. Before you're completely dry, slather on lotion. Applying it while moist helps trap water on your skin.

In drying environments - like your over-air-conditioned office - Sydney dermatologist, Dr Jo-Ann See is a fan of misting your face with water two or three times daily and then reapplying moisturiser.


Smooth sailing
At the end of the day, one simple law pretty much applies to everybody: you should probably wash less and moisturise more than you think. Use soap-free cleansers and experiment with lotions until you find one rich enough for you.

While there's no miracle cure (zits still happen), it appears that the fountain of youth may be a tub of moisturiser.