In this article, we’ll learn all about the skin barriers and why taking care of them should be everyone’s number one concern when it comes to skincare.
There are many reasons to do so. For one, it helps fight inflammation and age your skin more slowly; for another, it’s more sensitive to ingredients if you have sensitive skin.
By strengthening your skin barrier, you’re keeping your skin healthier and helping prevent premature aging while also allowing other treatments like topical retinoids to be as effective as possible.
The more stressed your skin is by environmental factors, the sooner it needs time to heal. Using occlusive barrier creams will help the skin re-establish its natural barriers while soothing those irritating sensations.
Products containing natural lipids and antioxidants may be added for extra protection. Add moisturizer with a serum or oil after cleansing so that the they are absorbed better. Start with a dime-sized amount of product and add as needed.
Avoid touching your face, or if you must, be sure to wash your hands first to avoid getting dirt or grease on your skin. Add moisturizer in the morning skin care routine for best protection.
It may also help to use an cream with anti-inflammatory ingredients at night that contains ingredients like aloe vera, niacinamide or vitamin E. Always read labels and check out ingredients before applying anything to your skin.
Be wary of fragrances, harsh soaps, alcohols, retinoids (especially around the eye area), acids (e.g., alpha hydroxy acid), and any other strong ingredients that could be bad for sensitive skin.