Our skin is the largest organ, accounting for roughly one-seventh of total body weight. It is one of the most vital organs in the body because it protects us from harsh environments. Skin is an intricate network of cells, amino acids, ceramides, and lipids. The skin barrier is also known as the skin's natural moisture barrier or acid mantle. When the skin barrier remains intact, we can keep adequate moisture levels.
The skin barrier is known as the epidermis, which is the skin's outermost layer of cells. It is located above the dermis, which contains blood vessels, sweat glands, nerves, and, most significantly, collagen and elastin, the two structural protein molecules that provide firmness and bounce to the skin. The subcutaneous layer is beneath that and is mostly made up of fat to provide a cushion for the skin. It oversees several vital tasks because it is the layer that is in contact with the outer environment hence the "barrier" in the name skin barrier.
Skin Barrier Is The Secret To Great Skin
Our skin is composed of layers, each of which serves a crucial purpose in safeguarding the body. The outermost layer, known as the stratum corneum, is frequently compared to a brick wall. It is made up of tough skin cells known as corneocytes that are held together by mortar-like lipids. It is our skin's protective layer. The epidermis's role is to protect the skin from any foreign substance, like bacteria or chemicals. The epidermis also acts to keep the skin moisturized by preventing water loss. The skin barrier has a distinct structure that aids in this feat.
The epidermis is composed of cells, mostly dead cells at the top, and a lipid matrix that covers these cells. The lipid composition of the epidermis reduces transepidermal water loss. The best way to visualize it is to consider the skin barrier to be a physical wall. The bricks in the wall are our cells, and the mortar is the lipid matrix, through which beneficial things think active chemicals can easily pass bad things, like bacteria and allergies, can also pass, but not as easily. For the skin barrier to work effectively, the lipids within that matrix, such as ceramides and essential fatty acids, must be in a specific ratio. This structure does an outstanding job of keeping moisture in and bacteria, pollutants, and allergies out while the skin barrier is intact. That is the pinnacle of good skin.
The Acid Mantle's Function
Our skin barrier has a modest acidic pH. This acidity contributes to the buffer against the growth of viruses, bacteria, and fungi that can damage our skin and cause infections and other skin disorders.
Ingredients To Avoid
When the skin barrier is compromised, it is less resilient, allowing allergens and bacteria into the skin and failing to safeguard against water loss. Dry, dehydrated, or irritated skin can result. Damaged barriers could be due to certain products we use or how often we utilize them. E.g people who frequently over-exfoliate with harsh exfoliating products. The main goal is to avoid substances that can aggravate an already compromised skin barrier.
- Sulphatesare abrasive and can cause skin irritation
- Alcoholhas a drying effect on the skin
- Benzoyl peroxide dries out the skin and weakens the skin barrier.
- Excessive use of active substancessuch as L-ascorbic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Salicylic Acid can also damages the skin barrier
Products Good For Skin Barrier
Environs Vita-Complex Super Moisturiser
Because discomfort is a symptom of a malfunctioning skin barrier, this moisturiser is truly super. It contains a range of dynamic mositurisers and emollients that aid the skin barrier function and delivers plenty of moisturizing factors. In addition, this super moisturiser is packed with vitamins and antioxidants which further protect your skin from free radical damage!
Cosmedixs Cell ID
This serum includes Cosmedix’s blend of powerful age-defying peptides, Japanese Orchid Stem Cell Extract and African Mahogany Tree Bark Extract. Which provides skincare activities that rejuvenate, smooth and firm the skin all while supporting and protecting the skins protective barrier with its long lasting moisture.
Don’t forget the SPF!
For long lasting protection you cant forget the SPF! We recommend finding a SPF which is lightweight and hydrating (our eyes are on the Cosmedix peptide rich defense SPF 50). This will not only help protect against UVA and UVB rays but also fight against those pesky environmental aggressors which can worsen the state of the skin barrier. The Cosmedix peptide rich defense is a particularly good choice as It contains peptides, trehalose, squalene, amino acids, natural botanical extracts and vitamin E which really hydrate and lock in moisture – perfect for a healthy skincare barrier.
Ingredients To Improve Skin Barrier
Ceramides
Ceramides are the primary component of the skin barrier, and a lack of them is usually associated with a compromised skin barrier. Mostly acne, pimples, and dermatitis are caused by a lack of ceramides, emphasizing the need for ceramides in our daily skincare regimen. It replenishes the skin barrier, seals in moisture, and minimizes outward indications of aging.
Glycerin
Glycerin is also quite effective. Glycerin can cross the skin barrier and remain within the skin for several days, providing constant hydration. It is especially beneficial for treating excessive dryness and restoring skin suppleness.
Squalane
It is a substance found naturally in the skin. It's vital for keeping skin nourished and protected since it seals in moisture. It has a mild texture and, unlike many oils, will not clog pores.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid aids in moisture retention, leaving skin supple and smooth. It promotes the barrier function of the skin and recuperation.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a true multitasker with benefits for acne-prone skin and pigmentation. It benefits the skin barrier by increasing ceramide formation, which helps to reinforce the skin structure and aid in water retention.
Omegas
Omega fatty acids are good for the skin when consumed orally and when applied topically. They help to firm and smooth the skin's surface, promote moisture, and alleviate signs of dryness and dehydration such as flakiness and sensitivity.