Why everyone is talking about Skin Barrier?
Skin care is one of the most talked-about topics on social networks, with beauty gurus offering advice on how to get healthy and radiant skin. And there's one phrase you'll hear them all use: your skin barrier.
But what exactly is your skin barrier, and why is it so important?
In this blog, we will explain how your skin barrier works, how to determine when it's compromised, and what you can do to restore it.
What is Skin Barrier?
In order to understand the exact function of the skin barrier, it’s essential to know how the skin is structured; the skin has 3 layers, each has an essential and vital role in the body.
Scientists frequently call the uppermost layer, known as the stratum corneum (Epidermis), as a brick wall. It is made up of tough skin cells known as corneocytes that are held together by mortar-like lipids.
This is our Skin's Barrier.
Keratin and natural moisturizers are found within skin cells, or "bricks." Cholesterol, Fatty Acids, and Ceramides are all found in the lipid layer.
This thin brick wall protects us from several hazardous environmental pollutants and pathogens that might enter our body via the skin and cause injury.
Furthermore, without the skin barrier, the water within the body would escape and evaporate, leaving us dehydrated. This is why it's also known as the Skin Moisture Barrier.
Damaged Skin Barrier
How do I know that my Skin Barrier is Damaged?
Disruption in the core functions of the skin barrier can present in a number of ways, including:
- Chronic skin irritation
- Skin feels Red, tight, dry, flaky, and itchy
- Dehydrated, dull skin
- Delayed wound healing
- Hypersensitivity over gentle products
What can cause damage to the Skin Barrier?
Many factors affect the skin barrier, some are external and others are internal and are linked to our lifestyle, here are a few major aspects to consider:
- Skipping Sunscreen
- Over and/or Harsh Exfoliation
- Not using Moisturizer
- Fragranced Products
- Lifestyle: Lack of Sleep, Stress, Smoking, etc..
Reminder: It’s always a good idea to check in with a professional, especially if you’re experiencing discomfort.
How to restore Skin Barrier?
The good news is that a damaged skin barrier may be repaired; however, it will require time and effort. It might take from a few weeks to six months to return it to its former protected state, depending on the extent of the damage.
Nourishing the skin with healing components like fatty acids, cholesterol, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid is very beneficial. Incorporating products rich in Ceramides into your skincare routine will guarantee the rebuilt of the skin barrier.
How to maintain and protect Skin Barrier?
The most effective way to protect your barrier function is to use a mild skincare routine that contains lipid-rich products. Maintaining the optimum quantity of moisture is essential for good skin function.
- Wash with warm water
- Use a soap-free cleanser
- Exfoliate gently
- Don’t over-cleanse
- Keep skin moisturized
- Wear sunscreen
- Treat pimples with care
Conclusion
To summarize, the skin barrier is an amazing and sophisticated defensive mechanism that protects our bodies from external dangers such as infections, toxins, and moisture loss.
Its composition and functions highlight the need of regular skincare practices and maintenance. We may achieve radiant, strong, and overall healthier skin by recognizing the critical function of the skin barrier and adopting actions that promote its health.
Remember that a healthy skin barrier not only benefits our physical health, but it also boosts our self-esteem and sense of well-being.
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