There are disclosed beverages for the maintenance of healthy, hydrated skin and the avoidance of dry skin and related problems, for mammals, particularly human beings, comprising whey protein, electrolytes, vitamin C and, optionally, aspartame with a low concentration of sugar, typically 4.15 g sugar per 237 ml serving, and a ratio of sugar to protein of typically 1.1:1. Also disclosed are methods for maintaining healthy skin and repairing dry skin by administering these beverages either alone or in conjunction with external topical moisturizers.