In the pursuit of flawless, radiant skin, one overlooked hero plays a crucial role: the skin barrier. This invisible shield, primarily composed of lipids, proteins, and ceramides, acts as our skin’s first line of defence against environmental aggressors, moisture loss, and irritants. When compromised, it can lead to a host of issues like dryness, sensitivity, and accelerated aging. Understanding how to maintain and repair the skin barrier is key to achieving healthy, glowing skin.

 

Skin Barrier 101

Our skin is our largest living organ and the gateway between our body and the outside world. The skin barrier’s role is to keep our skin well-protected from things that could harm it. Think of it like a shield, protecting all the delicate skin just beneath the surface. It works to keep water in and to keep chemicals and infectious bacteria out, so it’s very important for our skin health.

Your skin barrier is part of your stratum corneum, your top layer of skin. And in terms of structure, it’s often likened to a brick wall.

• Corneocytes are the tough skin cells that make up the “bricks” of your skin barrier.
• Lipids are natural fats in your skin, they’re the cement that fills in the gaps between corneocytes. These lipids — like ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids — strengthen the skin barrier.

 

 

What is a Compromised Skin Barrier?

Our skin barrier becomes compromised when it has been weakened and can be aggravated by external stressors like harsh weather, pollution, irritants and bacteria. Whereas, a healthy skin barrier can withstand these stressors much more easily. Just as stressors can penetrate, moisture can escape a compromised skin barrier, leading to transepidermal water loss. Without moisture being able to be retained our skin is left looking dry, dehydrated and dull.

 

What Damages the Skin Barrier?

Factors that can compromise the integrity of your skin barrier:

1. Over-cleansing: Harsh cleansers and frequent washing can strip away natural oils.
2. Environmental Stressors: Pollution, UV rays, and extreme weather conditions like heat wind and snow can weaken the barrier.
3. Poor Diet and Hydration: Inadequate nutrition and hydration affect skin health from the inside out.
4. Incorrect Product Use: Using skincare products with harsh ingredients, synthetic fragrances or incorrect pH levels can disrupt the barrier.

 

What are the Signs of a Damaged Skin Barrier?

• Sensitivity
• Rough Texture
• Redness
• Peeling
• Dryness (lack of oil)
• Dehydrated (lack of water)
• Tightness
• Irritation
• Reactions to products
• Increased breakouts (Adult acne)

 

How to Repair and Strengthen Your Skin Barrier

1. Gentle Cleansing: Opt for mild, hydrating cleansers that preserve natural oils.
2. Moisturise Regularly: Use a moisturiser containing ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid to restore hydration and reinforce the barrier.
3. Sun Protection: Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against UV damage.
4. Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Steer clear of alcohol, fragrance, and sulfates in skincare products.
5. Avoid washing face in hot water: Opt for luke warm water instead.
6. Balanced Diet: Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and E and drink plenty of water.

 

What are the Top Ingredients for Skin Barrier Health?

When choosing skincare products, look for these beneficial ingredients:

1. Ceramides: Restore lipid barrier and prevent moisture loss.
2. Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts moisture to the skin’s surface.
3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Strengthens the barrier, calms irritation, and boosts elasticity.
4. Provitamin B5: Protects the skin barrier and draws water into the skin.
5. Antioxidants (Vitamins C and E): Protect against environmental damage and promote collagen production.
6. Fatty Acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6): Maintain lipid barrier integrity and support skin hydration.

 

A healthy skin barrier is not just a skincare trend, it is fundamental to maintaining healthy skin.