The 3 basic layers of the skin are the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue).
The skin barrier (stratum corneum) is the outermost layer of the epidermis. It is the frontline defence of the skin. Consists of several layers of cells that produce the protein named keratin. The cells are created in the deeper layer of the epidermis, rise to the upper layer , loose their nucleus and become corneocytes (keratinocytes in the last step of differentiation). Dead shells are shed off and replaced by new skin cells (cell turnover).
Keratin is a fibrous, no water-soluble protein that ensures the impermeability of the skin and the same time protects it from the UV rays.
The skin barrier is also called lipid barrier. Consists of ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol. It is the barrier that ensures nutrition and hydration.
The function of skin barrier
Protects against external factors such as germs and microorganisms, ultraviolet radiation, and environmental pollution.
Ensures that skin moisture is maintained to prevent dryness and dehydration.
How to protect your skin barrier
Always use a gentle facial cleanser. You don’t want to strip your skin barrier off its natural oils.
Don’t over-exfoliate. Do not apply harsh, aggressive exfoliating products that can cause micro-abrasions on the skin and then cause possible infections. You may have a look at my related post
https://www.christiannak.com/?p=107
You shouldn’t wash your face with hot or cold water, but with lukewarm water. Hot and cold water can irritate the skin.
In case that you use AHAs and BHAs, don’t overdo even if you think your skin is resistant to them.You risk to notice signs of dehydration and damage soon. This is the link to my related post https://www.christiannak.com/?p=116
If you use retinoids, especially when you are a beginner but even after, don’t exaggerate thinking that you will see faster results. Moreover, don’t exfoliate and apply a retinoid at the same skincare routine. My post about the beginners guide
https://www.christiannak.com/?p=1698
You may need to create a schedule that you will follow consistently. It doesn’t take long to do and will save you from skin barrier problems that will eventually arise.
Never use homemade exfoliants, even though there are many recipes online. Cosmetic brands use the correct dosage that you don’t know how to do. It may seem like a cheaper solution, but it will cost you the health of your skin and its overall appearance.
Do not neglect the use of a broad spectrum sunscreen with a high Sun Protection Factor. https://www.christiannak.com/?p=1069
Don’t base your hydration solely on hyaluronic acid. It’s not just hydration, it’s also nourishment. Choose serums or creams with ceramides and fatty acids. There are several products on the market. Every moisturizing cream contains ingredients with fatty acids. https://www.christiannak.com/?p=452
https://www.christiannak.com/?p=428
How do you know that the skin barrier has been disrupted:
The skin is dry and tight
There are irritations, itching and redness.
Dermatitis and eczema may appear.
It is very sensitive and reactive
Fine lines and wrinkles appear more pronounced.
Uneven skin tone
Solutions
Focus on restoring your skin barrier. Stop any active ingredient. Unfortunately this has to be done. Anything that is irritating you don’t use until you skin barrier is repaired. It’s best not to get to that point, but if it happens, the health of your skin comes first. This is my post about how to repair damaged skin barrier https://www.christiannak.com/?p=69
Reduce the number of times you wash your face. Once a day is enough. Use a mild cleanser.
Moisturize and nourish your skin. Choose cosmetics with moisturizing agents, ceramides, fatty acids and perhaps probiotics. At the same time, read the ingredients list because many times the cream may contain other ingredients such as a hydroxy acid or vitamin C, ingredients that under normal conditions would not cause you a problem but in this case could irritate even more.
You can also use a regenerative cream.
Don’t neglect the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Impaired skin barrier means that your skin is more photosensitive.
In a nutshell, your main concern should always be to protect and maintain your lipid barrier. Anti-aging treatments can be effective only if the skin barrier is healthy. Hydration and nourishment along with sun protection is what you should definitely do even if you don’t want to spend more money on additional products.
Special thanks to pexels.com for the free photos download as well as to the creator of this specific photo.