If you have sensitive skin, you may be more familiar with the skin barrier than you even knew already, since (we’re sorry to say) it might already be compromised.
But never fear: fixing a damaged skin barrier is a straightforward process.
So, what is the skin barrier?
The skin barrier, otherwise known as the lipid barrier or the skin’s natural moisture barrier, helps protect the skin by keeping water in and pollutants out. The skin barrier takes on three essential jobs:
- It helps protect your body from external stressors (like pollution and UV radiation).
- It retains water, which helps keep your skin hydrated.
- It transports nutrients to your skin.
How do you know whether your skin barrier is damaged or healthy?
If your skin is hydrated, plump, and smooth, you likely have a healthy skin barrier. You’ll also find that your skin tends to be less sensitive when your skin barrier is functioning properly.
However, when your skin barrier is not functioning properly, i.e., when it’s damaged, your skin will be susceptible to further damage. You might notice that your skin is more dry, flaky, irritated, or itchy as a result of a compromised skin barrier. You could also experience rashes or that the products you apply leave behind a tingling or burning sensation.
What causes a damaged skin barrier?
Just like sensitive skin, a damaged skin barrier can have many causes, like environmental factors (sun exposure, pollution), physical factors (exfoliating your skin too much or using products that are too harsh), and genetics.
What are some ways to help sensitive skin?
There are a few different ways to help repair the skin’s lipid barrier, effectively helping sensitive skin. They include:
- Drinking more water (aim for 8 glasses a day).
- Avoiding triggers like allergens, irritants, and pollutants.
- Refrain from over-washing or over-exfoliating the skin.
- Include skin products with ceramides in your skincare.
For more information, visit Dermalogica.
