The skin barrier. Chances are, you’ve heard the term. But you may not know what it is exactly—until now! If you have sensitive skin, you may be more familiar with the skin barrier than you even knew already, since (we’re sorry to say) it might already be compromised. But never fear: fixing a damaged skin barrier is a straightforward process. 

So, what is the skin barrier?

The skin barrier, otherwise known as the lipid barrier or the skin’s natural moisture barrier, helps protect the skin by keeping water in and pollutants out. The skin barrier takes on three essential jobs:

• It helps protect your body from external stressors (like pollution and UV radiation).
• It retains water, which helps keep your skin hydrated.
• It transports nutrients to your skin.

how do you know whether your skin barrier is damaged or healthy?

If your skin is hydrated, plump, and smooth, you likely have a healthy skin barrier. You’ll also find that your skin tends to be less sensitive when your skin barrier is functioning properly.

However, when your skin barrier is not functioning properly, i.e., when it’s damaged, your skin will be susceptible to further damage. You may find your skin feels sensitive or is dehydrated, dull, or dry, or that your skin isn’t defending itself adequately against outside aggressors like free radicals (which can ultimately lead to fine lines and wrinkles).

how do you know whether your skin barrier is damaged or healthy?

In a word, yes. Sensitive skin has many causes, like genetics, stress, hormone changes, skin conditions, or environmental stressors. But, frequently, sensitive skin is a direct result of a damaged lipid barrier. It stands to reason, then, that to fix sensitive skin, you need to fix the damaged skin barrier. 

what are some telltale signs of a damaged skin barrier?

You might notice that your skin is more dry, flaky, irritated, or itchy as a result of a compromised skin barrier. You could also experience rashes or that the products you apply leave behind a tingling or burning sensation.

what causes a damaged skin barrier?

Just like sensitive skin, a damaged skin barrier can have many causes, like environmental factors (sun exposure, pollution), physical factors (exfoliating your skin too much or using products that are too harsh), and genetics.

And let's not forget one of the most important things to consider when looking at the skin barrier: ceramides.

what are ceramides? tell me more.

Ceramides are one of the key components of the skin's lipid barrier. Here are a few things to note:

• The skin produces its own ceramides to help rebuild the skin barrier.
• Some skin care ingredients can help with this rebuilding process.
• The lipid bi-layer of the skin is composed of ceramides (50%), cholesterol (25%), and fatty acids (10-12%). When the levels of these lipids, especially ceramides, are unbalanced, the skin barrier becomes compromised.
• Ceramides, made of sphingosine bound to fatty acids, are well-known for their prominent role in the formation and maintenance of skin barrier function. Dry, sensitive skin cannot synthesize sufficient ceramides, so one approach to improving the skin barrier is to use a topical moisturizer containing soothing ingredients to calm, moisturise, and hydrate the skin.

what are some ways to help sensitive skin?

There are a few different ways to help repair the skin's lipid barrier, effectively helping sensitive skin. They include:

• Drinking more water (aim for 8 glasses a day).
• Avoiding triggers like allergens, irritants, and pollutants.
• Refrain from over-washing or over-exfoliating the skin.
• Include skin products with ceramides in your skincare.

if I have sensitive skin, what skincare routine should I include?

Moisture, moisture, moisture. In general, it's important to do two things: keep your skincare regimen simple, and make sure it includes a rich, super-hydrating moisturiser.

Our pick is Stabilizing Repair Cream: its balmy-cream formula melts into skin to give it stability, relief, and a chance to recover from sensitivity. It also features a Ceramide-Building Complex that provides nourishing lipids, strengthens the skin's barrier to lock in moisture,  and helps keep signs of sensitivity at bay.

The bottom line? Keeping your lipid barrier healthy will keep your skin hydrated and sensitivity at bay.

Want to learn more about which skin care products are right for you? Visit your local Dermalogica Professional Skin Therapist or chat to an expert online now for a completely customised regimen.