Skincare & face
Skin barrier
The outermost skin layer that holds moisture in and keeps irritants out.
The skin barrier consists of corneocytes and a lipid matrix of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids. It keeps water in the skin and harmful substances out.
When it is compromised:
Typical signs are tightness, redness, stinging from otherwise well-tolerated products, sudden sensitivity and skin that stays dry despite moisturising. Common causes: too many acids, water that is too hot, over-exfoliation, harsh cleansing.
Rebuilding it:
Less is more: gentle cleansing, a simple moisturiser with ceramides, panthenol or niacinamide, and a pause on all acids and retinol. Skin usually calms down over two to four weeks.
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