What Is A Compromised Skin Barrier?

In winter, one of the most common skin issues that I see is a compromised barrier. A damaged skin barrier can present itself in a few ways: dryness, dehydration, redness, inflammation, and breakouts. So, what is a skin barrier and how do you know if yours is damaged? 

The term, “barrier” , is used to describe the top surface of your skin, which is made up of lipids. These lipids protect your skin from environmental aggressors and keep moisture locked inside. If your barrier is compromised, it can no longer perform these functions properly. 

There are a few different ways that a barrier can become damaged. One common way is through the use of harsh skincare products that strip away natural lipids. This can leave the skin feeling dry, tight, and irritated. Another way is through environmental factors such as wind, cold weather, and sun exposure. These can all contribute to a compromised barrier.

So how do you know if you have a damaged barrier? There are a few common signs:

-Dryness: If your skin feels dry, tight, and flaky, it could be a sign that your barrier is damaged.

-Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when there is a lack of water (hydration) in the skin. This can make the skin appear dull and lifeless.

-Redness: If your skin is red and inflamed, this could be a sign of a damaged barrier.

-Breakouts: If you are experiencing breakouts, it could be due to a damaged barrier.

If you think you may have a damaged barrier, there are a few things you can do to help restore and protect your skin barrier:

- Use a gentle cleanser: Avoid using harsh cleansers that strip away your natural oils. Panthenol and Sodium Hyaluronate ingredients are perfect for keeping your skin barrier intact because they help maintain moisture.  

- Moisturizer that contains humectants and ceramides hydrates and repairs your skin. These two ingredients are important to have in your skincare routine to maintain your skin health. Be sure to moisturize your skin daily, especially if you live in a dry climate or suffer from dry skin.

- Use a facial oil: Face oils help replenish the natural oils in your skin, making them an excellent choice for those with a damaged barrier or very dry skin.

-Use an occlusive balm overnight: This will help seal in moisture and protect your skin while you sleep. 

- Limit sun exposure: UV rays can further damage your already compromised barrier, so be sure to limit your time in the sun and always wear sunscreen.

If you suspect your barrier is compromised, use products that have ingredients to get your skin back into balance. If you're unsure what your skin needs, you can always book a consultation at Roman Esthetics. Taking care of your skin barrier is essential for maintaining healthy, happy skin.