What Is The Skin Barrier?

The Skin Barrier is composed of amino acids, fatty acids, lipids and skin cells - these acids and lipids are essentially the skin’s own natural protective oils. The stratum corneum - the uppermost layer of skin cells - and skin barrier are found in the outer layer of the epidermis.

When a person has a properly functioning barrier, they find themselves with healthier, more youthful looking skin. Unfortunately, those with damaged barriers will find themselves with troubled skin including issues with blemishes, acne and irritation. 

To get a better understanding on how the skin barrier works, you should know about the three major layers of the skin...Epidermis, Dermis, and Hypodermis which are multi layered and protect the skin from harmful toxins, bacteria and infections that can go into your bloodstream.

Epidermis is the ‘skin barrier’ that helps retain moisture and keeps it healthy by keeping those harmful elements away.

Dermis produces an adequate amount of healthy oils that work in lubricating the skin. Want that soft, smooth and supple skin? This is what the dermis does.

Hypodermis, also referred to as subcutaneous tissue layer, it’s the innermost layer used to keep fat stored, as well as having the capability to regulate your body’s temperature. The tissues that the hypodermis contains attaches the surrounding bones and muscles to the skin.

Those dealing with a damaged moisture barrier may find their skin doesn’t seem to improve when using various skincare products, but they do notice skin becoming dry, dull and lacking luster as well as dealing with an increased amount of blemishes.  In order for products to work properly, you need to have a healthy skin barrier to allow ingredients to penetrate through ridding it of dead skin cells and creating new healthier ones to replace them.

Damaged skin barriers can be caused by numerous factors including…

Harsh Chemicals

Many ingredients including alcohols and sulfates dry and dehydrate the skin stripping it of its own natural oils which can cause the production of even more sebum, sensitivities, irritation and even blemishes.

Age

Our lipid production which forms an impermeable barrier holding cells together, naturally becomes reduced as we grow older.

Too Much Exfoliation

2 to 3 times a week is the recommended amount of exfoliating that should be done for a person without any skin conditions, and those with more sensitive skin may find gently exfoliating once a week works best. Too much exfoliation will cause damage, especially to the skin’s stratum corneum. 

Protecting your skin barrier isn’t as difficult or as complicated as you may believe. With a handful of simple steps to do daily, there is no going wrong.

1. Cleanse with a gentle cleanser. (harsh products lead to drying the skin leading to damage and irritation)
2. Use a nourishing moisturiser. (use those with hydrating ingredients to keep skin looking supple and soft)
3. Use at least an SPF 50+. (The Aussie sun’s uva/uvb rays penetrate the skin causing damage, increasing the risk of skin cancers, and also plays a huge role in premature aging. Use an spf daily and always reapply throughout the day)
4. Look for antioxidants. (protecting the skin from environmental stresses, and free radical damage, the use of antioxidants on your skin not only protects but also helps with premature aging)

If you’re ready for a change you must start taking steps to a healthier and protected skin barrier. In order to fix it, it’s highly recommended to:

Know your triggers...did you try a new ingredient? A new product? A new routine? Start paying attention and jot down any changes that may be occuring with your skin and bring it to be analyzed by your esthetician or dermatologist if your skin doesn’t seem to be improving. 

Have a simple skincare regimen while allowing your skin to heal. When experiencing sensitivities, ‘simple’ steps can speed up the recovery process without having too many active ingredients aggravating already irritated skin. 

Don’t wash too often! As much as we all like to have clean skin, there is too much of a good thing. Avoid over washing and don’t cleanse more than twice a day to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized without stripping it of its natural oils. 

Simple Is Better For The Skin Barrier

With skin being the largest organ in the body there’s no wonder why we have to take great care of it, especially since it’s never too late to start. If the idea of starting a new skincare regimen seems a bit overwhelming at first, start off slow.

Get the basics….gentle cleanser and a nourishing moisturiser to use both morning and at night, as well as an spf to use when you step foot outside.

Once you’ve become used to a skincare regimen you can then begin adding a serum, and treatment products to help improve your skincare concerns. If you want great skin, start by creating a healthy skin barrier and watch just like magic the improvements you’ll see within a few months...so what are you waiting for?! Start giving your skin barrier what it needs!