BREAKING DOWN THE BASICS: UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE OF SKIN BARRIER PROTECTION

We often hear words and don’t know exactly what they mean.  Skin barrier is a term being thrown around left and right. But what is it actually? With the world of skincare becoming more and more high tech, it can be confusing.  Learning how to properly care for your skin should be simple.  

We all want to improve our existing skin conditions. Sometimes we innocently do things that negatively impact the skin, not knowing that the root cause of the problem is linked to our skin barrier.  Learning the importance of the skin barrier  and how to nurture it can prevent a whole bunch of dermological dilemmas.

WHAT IS THE SKIN BARRIER?

Contrary to popular belief, our skin wasn’t given to us for purely aesthetic reasons. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and has many functions. The skin barrier (otherwise known as the epidermis) is the outermost layer of the skin. It is also known or referred to as the “acid mantle” or “moisture barrier”. The skin barrier’s main function is to act as your body’s first line of defense against  microorganisms and environmental aggressors.

DAMAGED SKIN BARRIER SYMPTOMS

Sometimes our skin barrier can become compromised, creating a host of issues at the cutaneous level. There are many things that contribute to throwing our skin barrier off balance.  A damaged skin barrier can manifest itself in several ways, ranging from acne to fine lines. 

Your skin barrier can become impaired over time: stress, aging, the use of harsh skincare products, and exposure to UV rays and other environmental stressors can damage its structure.  

The symptoms of a compromised skin barrier are often mistaken for other skin concerns such as acne, rosacea, sun damage, and premature aging.  It’s important to watch out for symptoms, and nip the problem in the bud before it becomes a major issue.  

Here are the top signs of a damaged skin barrier:
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• Redness, irritation  and inflammation of the skin
• Skin Infections
• Rosacea
• Acne
• Dehydrated and dull skin 
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hyperpigmentation
• Slow wound healing

WHAT CAUSES DAMAGE TO THE SKIN BARRIER?

Unbeknownst to the average person, damaging the skin barrier is quite easy to do. All too often skin barrier damage goes misdiagnosed, mistaking it for other skin concerns.  The skin is a delicate organ, and knowing what causes skin barrier damage will help you maintain a healthy moisture barrier. 
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• Over exfloliating with chemical or manual exfoliants 
• Over cleansing and the use of harsh cleansers
• Abusing active ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs, and Retinoids
• Skincare products that contain alcohol or synthetic fragrance
• Overexposure to UV radiation
• Pollutants and other irritants 
• Hot Water
• Poor diet and lifestyle habits
• Smoking
• Stress 
• Lack of sleep
• Aging
• Being of certain ethnicities

HOW TO REPAIR THE SKIN BARRIER

There’s no time frame for repairing a damaged skin barrier or remedy that gives instantaneous results.  Remember that things take time.  Once you have a compromised skin barrier, choose products with ingredients that will add moisture, reinforce the skin, provide a protective layer, and are soothing. Introducing  gentle cleansers and products into your skincare routine will definitely speed up the healing process.  Refrain from using AHAs, BHAs, Retinoids, and  all types of manual exfoliants. Also steer away from all alcohol based products and products containing synthetic fragrances, as they increase dryness and will further irritation. Skincare products that contain high doses of pure Vitamin C should also be avoided, as they can increase irritation.

Look for products that contain these ingredients to protect the skin  barrier:

• Hyaluronic Acid
• Glycerin
• Ceramides
• Niacinamide
• peptides
• Centella Asiatica (aka Cica)
• Antioxidants (Vitamin A, C, E)
• Squalene
• Sunscreen 

Be gentle with your skin. Over manipulation will increase damage to the skin.
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• Avoid using hot water
• Do not use any facial brushes,  face cloths, or cleansing devices while cleansing
• Pat your skin with a clean dry towel
• Use a mild cleanser
• Touching or scratching the skin will increase irritation

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