Skin Barrier 101

The skin barrier, also known as the stratum corneum, is an important protective layer of the skin that helps to keep moisture in and harmful elements out. A healthy skin barrier is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant-looking skin. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the skin barrier, how it works, mistakes that I made and what you can do to save the barrier and keep it intact. 😊

What is the Skin Barrier?

The skin barrier is made up of dead skin cells, lipids, and other natural components of the skin. It acts as a protective layer, keeping out environmental irritants, pollution, and other harmful elements. It also helps to retain moisture in the skin, which is essential for keeping the skin healthy, hydrated, and supple.

How does the Skin Barrier work?

The skin barrier works by forming a protective barrier between the skin and the environment. The lipids in the skin barrier act as a waterproof barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping out harmful elements. The dead skin cells also help to create a protective layer, while other natural components of the skin, such as sebum, help to keep the skin hydrated.

What happens when the Skin Barrier is damaged?

When the skin barrier is damaged, it can lead to a variety of skin issues, such as dryness, redness, and sensitivity. I am so not new to these! When the skin barrier is compromised, it can also allow harmful elements to penetrate the skin, leading to inflammation and other skin issues.

When I get too excited about using the exfoliants and end up over using them, my skin barrier broke!

How do I know that? I find redness around my nose and under lip area. If I don’t notice it sooner, it starts to flake and become very dry. Dry like a desert!

What do I do? I drop all my actives and go hug my gentle cleanser (like milk cleansers) and ultra hydrating moisturizers and physical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens would sting me during this time. Hydration is everything when skin barrier is compromised.

When does it get alright? It takes up to 4 weeks for it to revive fully but I generally see it improve in minimum 2 weeks’ time.

How to keep the Skin Barrier healthy?

Ceramides, ceramides and ceramides! Look for products that contain ingredients like ceramides, which help to restore the skin barrier, and hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate the skin. Using gentle, hydrating products can help to keep the skin barrier healthy.

Also, avoid using harsh, drying products on your skin. Harsh cleansers, exfoliants, and other products can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause damage to the skin barrier.

Another important factor in maintaining a healthy skin barrier is to avoid over-exfoliating the skin. Over-exfoliating can cause damage to the skin barrier and lead to sensitivity and dryness. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliants, such as those containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).

Some barrier saving products I love are:

Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum

CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion (It has 3 ceramides in it!)

QV Ceramides Moisturising Cream

The skin barrier is everything to a healthy, radiant-looking skin. By using gentle, hydrating products, avoiding harsh products, and being mindful of your skin's needs, you can help to keep your skin barrier healthy and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion. Even if it is compromised, you know how to revive it! 😉