Now you already have an idea about some basic steps of a skincare routine, let’s talk about something you might hear often – “skin barrier” and what is "radiant skin". If you’ve ever wondered what the barrier actually is, why it matters, or how to keep it strong, this guide is for you!
What is it, and Why Is It Important?
The barrier, often called the "moisture barrier," is the outermost layer of our skin, known as the stratum corneum.
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Think of your barrier as a protective wall. It’s the outer layer that keeps moisture in and blocks out harmful elements like dirt, pollution, and bacteria. Imagine your skin cells as bricks and natural oils as the mortar holding them together. A healthy barrier keeps your skin hydrated, plump, and resilient. If this “wall” is weakened, moisture escapes, and irritants get in, leaving your skin vulnerable to dryness and damage.
Here’s a quick tip for you: Even if your skin feels oily, don’t skip moisturizer. Hydrated skin supports a strong barrier and helps keep oil production balanced.
What Happens If the Barrier is Damaged?
When the barrier is compromised, it can no longer protect as effectively, leading to:
- Dryness and Flakiness: Moisture escapes easily, leaving skin dry and rough.
- Redness and Irritation: The skin becomes vulnerable to irritants, often resulting in sensitivity, redness, or even a stinging sensation.
- Breakouts and Sensitivity: A weakened barrier allows bacteria to penetrate, which can lead to acne and increased sensitivity.
- Itchiness: Damaged skin is more prone to itching and discomfort.
If your skin feels unusually dry, sensitive, or prone to sudden breakouts, it may need extra barrier support.
Here’s another important tip for you: Always wash your face with lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water strips natural oils, leaving the barrier vulnerable.
“I feel like I have the symptoms above! How do I repair my damaged barrier?”
If your barrier is already compromised, don’t worry! Here are some key ingredients for restoring it:
- Ceramides: These replenish lost lipids, rebuilding the barrier.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): A multitasker that boosts ceramide production, calming redness and reinforcing the barrier.
- Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): A deeply hydrating, soothing ingredient ideal for damaged skin.
- Centella Asiatica (Cica): Known for its healing properties, this plant extract soothes irritation and helps repair the barrier.
Dr. G’s R.E.D Blemish Clear Soothing Toner / Essence / Cream are very recommended for those who feel like having compromised you skin. They are formulated with multiple various Cica which can quickly and effectively soothe and restore the skin’s natural defense.
What Ingredients do I use to maintain ?
After you have your barrier restored, you can stick with products with certain ingredients like below in order to maintain a strong barrier:
- Ceramides and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): As we mentioned above, these two are a great combo for holding in moisture and reinforcing the barrier.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful hydrator that attracts moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated.
- Fatty Acids: Ingredients like sunflower seed oil and squalane provide essential lipids for barrier support.
- Glycerin: A humectant that draws water from the air into your skin, keeping it smooth and hydrated.
A product like the Jericho Rose Bifida Serum Firming Drop from Abib would be quite a good option to go with. Not only it has all 5 above ingredients, but also Bakuchiol and Peptides for fighting aging signs.
Conclusion
Your skin barrier is the foundation of all skincare. No matter how many products you use, they’re less effective if your skin can’t hold onto moisture or block out irritants. Taking care of your barrier first is key to healthy, resilient skin that can benefit from every step in your routine.
