Let’s talk skin barrier!
Why does your skin barrier play a key role in the health of your skin? Keep reading to
understand why skin health is a factor in beautiful looking skin!
A damaged skin barrier can be one of the hardest things to understand and fix when it comes to
your skin. The reason is because it can be caused by so many different things and can look
different for each person. It is important to understand the skin barrier for the health of our
skin and body as your skin is the bodies first defense.
What is the skin barrier?
Unlike pores, lines or breakouts, you can’t actually see your skin barrier with the naked eye.
Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin and works like the walls of a house. It is
made from “bricks and mortar” which work like walls to protect your skin. The walls keep the
good stuff (hydration and natural oils) in and keep the bad stuff (environmental aggressors etc.)
out. If your skin barrier is healthy, it will work properly and your skin will stay looking and
feeling hydrated and healthy. When your barrier is not healthy, your skin can look dull and dry.
How does my barrier become compromised?
When your barrier is compromise, it’s because its being stripped of its natural oils. This can
happen over time for many reasons. Environmental issues play a huge role in your skins barrier,
which can be tough because these are out of our control. However certain skin care choices can
also affect your skin.
1) Temperature:
If water that you’re using is too cold or too hot it can damage and dry out your skin. Water
that’s too cold will not remove dirt or grime but hot water can strip the natural oils on the skin.
Therefore, we don’t recommend showering in scolding hot water. When washing your face, its
best to use lukewarm water. The temperature outside can also affect skin. If it’s too cold skin
can get wind burn and become dry and chapped.
2) Products that are too active:
Listen, I love BHA’s and AHA’s as much as the next girl but there’s a fine line. These ingredients
are highly effective but using too much of these concentrated ingredients can cause irritation.
You can use these products but using them at different times of the week can be a safe and
results forward option.
3) UV damage:
UV damage plays a huge role in skin health so no surprise that UV damage will also harm your
skins barrier. Sun burns are a prime example!
4) Over exfoliating:
I see you and I hear you, I also over exfoliate. This can cause extreme sensitivity. Use a
physical/mechanical exfoliant 2-3x a week to keep your skin loving it’s life.
How can you tell if your skin barrier is damaged?
1) Dry or rough skin
2) Itchiness
3) Acne
4) Inflammation or redness
How to combat a compromised skin barrier?
If your barrier is compromised it is important to hydrate and strengthen your skin again.
Antioxidants, water and lipids are good ingredients to look for. Antioxidants will help fight free
radical damage and strengthen your skins natural defense system. Sunflower and safflower oils
are great because they are a lipid filled with antioxidants. Using products with hyaluronic acid
and aloe will also help calm and soothe skin as well as hydrate. Products with colloidal oatmeal
are also great for reducing redness and inflammation in the skin!