We’ve all heard ‘protect your skin barrier’ but what is the skin barrier and why does it need to be protected? Let’s break it down.
What is the Skin Barrier:
The skin is made up of 3 layers: Hypodermis, Dermis and Epidermis. The epidermis is the top layer of the skin and the outermost layer is known as the skin barrier and is made up of the stratum corneum (a thin layer above the epidermis). The skin barrier is also referred to as a ‘brick wall’ as it’s made of individual cells (the ‘bricks’) tightly packed together and held together by ‘mortar’ which is essentially fatty substances (lipids).
Importance of the Skin Barrier:
The skin barrier is your primary defense against environmental factors such as bacteria, chemicals, UV radiation. It also maintains proper hydration levels by regulating water loss from the skin. Without the skin barrier your body will be more prone to infections, rashes, itchiness, excessive water loss, dehydration and much more.
Factors that damage the Skin Barrier:
- Too humid or too dry environment conditions
- Irritants and pollutants
- Too much sun exposure
- Exposure to harsh chemicals
- Over-washing your skin
- Genetic factors that may make you more prone to certain skin conditions
- Poor skincare
- Aging
How to know if your Skin Barrier is damaged:
- Increased sensitivity: Chemicals and pollutants can easily get into your skin causing redness, inflammation and itching
- Premature aging: Wrinkles and fine lines may start appearing early
- Dehydration: The skin would lose moisture leading to dryness and flakiness
- Risk of Infection: Without a barrier to block bacteria and viruses, the chances of skin infections would increase
- A compromised skin barrier can contribute to or worsen conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea as well
How to protect your Skin Barrier:
- Use sunscreen daily and apply evenly to your skin: Sunscreen will protect your skin from the harsh UV rays
- Moisturise daily: Moisturising will lock your moisture in
- Choose a gentle cleanser
- Eat healthy
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can cause premature aging
- Choose products which will help balance your skin’s pH levels
To conclude:
Protecting your skin barrier is extremely important and choosing natural, clean products for your skin is essential to keep your skin barrier protected along with external factors such as limiting your exposure to the sun and many more. Your skin barrier is your primary defense against external factors. By nurturing and strengthening it, you’re investing in your long-term, overall well-being.
