What The Skin Barrier Is And How To Protect Yours

The skin barrier is a vital component of healthy skin, and without it, our skin would be vulnerable to harmful bacteria and environmental stressors. So, what is the skin barrier, and what is its purpose?

What is The Skin Barrier? Why Is It Important?

The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, made up tough skin cells known as corneocytes that are bound together by lipids. The skin barrier is located in the uppermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum. 

So, why is the skin barrier so important? It plays a critical role in maintaining healthy and radiant skin. It not only keeps your skin hydrated, but it also acts as a shield against UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental aggressors that can cause premature aging and damage to your skin.

A strong and intact skin barrier helps your skin retain its elasticity, texture, and natural glow.

Can The Skin Barrier Be Damaged?

While your skin barrier is the first line of defense against damage and dehydration, it too is prone to damage. So, how can you tell if your skin barrier is damaged? Some common signs include dry, itchy or flaky skin, acne, and sensitive or inflamed areas on the skin.

A damaged skin barrier raises your chance of developing infections and skin irritations, so you might also experience rashes and conditions like eczema.

What Damages The Skin Barrier?

According to WebMd, these factors can contribute to a damaged skin barrier:

• Over washing or exfoliating
• Too much sun exposure
• Hot baths or showers
• Harsh soaps or detergents
• Poor skin care
• Cuts or injuries
• Eating lots of unhealthy foods
• Certain medications, like steroids
• Mental or physical stress
• Lack of sleep
• Family history of skin conditions
• Aging
• A dry or humid environment
• Hot or cold weather
• Allergens, irritants, and pollutants
• Smoking

How To Protect and Revive Your Skin Barrier

1. Avoid Harsh Cleansers: One of the quickest ways to damage your skin barrier is to use harsh soaps or cleansers. Many people believe that strong cleaners will help get their skin extra clean, but the opposite is true. Cleansers with high levels of sulfates like bar soap can strip away your skin’s natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and damage. Opt for gentler ones like our Pearl Facial Cleanser.
2. Moisturize: Keeping your skin moisturized is vital for maintaining a healthy skin barrier-moisturizers hold water in your skin barrier. For best absorption, put your moisturizer on while skin is still damp. Make sure to use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type.
3. Be Gentle When Exfoliating: When exfoliating your skin, make sure to be gentle. For physical exfoliants like scrubs, don’t scrub them onto your face for more than 60 seconds. Most importantly, avoid scrubbing too hard. Gentle exfoliation is excellent for your skin, but over-exfoliation can harm your skin barrier. Use a gentle exfoliator only once or twice a week.
4. Avoid too much sun: Regardless your skin tone, UV rays from the sun can be damaging to your skin barrier. It’s essential to protect yourself by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before you head out.
5. Hydrate from the inside: Remember that hydrating from the inside out is crucial for healthy skin. Drink plenty of water and consume a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables and less processed foods. The nutrients in these foods will help keep your skin healthy and radiant.

Other tips to protect your skin barrier from damage include:

• Avoid long, hot baths or showers.
• Don’t smoke
• Shave carefully (cuts or scratches can lead to infection or irritation).
• Don’t scratch your skin aggressively.
• Manage stress

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your skin healthy and glowing for years to come. Because you are a GEM.