In the hustle and bustle of life, we can often neglect ourselves, and your skin barrier may not be #1 priority of importance in your life. However, it is necessary to uphold and maintain the health of your barrier as it is what separates our insides to the external environment.

What is the skin barrier?

The most superficial layer of the skin is composed of millions of cells that overlap each other, that are tightly packed and filled with keratin, creating a strong and resilient barrier. Think of your skin barrier like the roof of your house. If the roof tiles are cracked, broken or not built together correctly, this can cause damage and leakage to the inside and outside of your house. 

This is similar to the skin, whereby if our barrier is impaired we can create further problems and damage both inside and outside. The skin is composed of millions of cells that overlap eachother, like the roof tiles, and are filled with keratin to become our strong and resilient barrier. 

Together, the cells and its components create a structure that aids as a chemical and physical barrier to external hazards, protects internal structures from toxins, heat, chemicals, pathogens, UV radiation, and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). 

There are particular factors that may contribute to barrier impairment, including:

• Genetics and aging
• Environmental toxins
• Cleansing too often
• Abrasion
• Sun damage
• Improper use of skincare products
• Harsh chemicals and irritants
• Smoking
• Health factors: nutrition, stress, dehydration

What are the signs that your barrier may be damaged?

An impaired skin barrier may present in different ways. 

• Dryness
• Itching
• Redness
• Skin infections
• Incomplete or delayed wound healing
• Acne and breakouts
• Hyperpigmentation
• Sensitivity
• Dehydration and dull appearance
• Rosacea and eczema are commonly seen in people with impaired barriers

How can we assist you in preventing and repairing damage?

During your skin consultation, we can assess your skin and analyze any culprits within your lifestyle and skin care routine that may be hindering you from achieving your best skin yet. 

Often it can be good to strip back your routine and simplify it by using basic and essential products. By adjusting your current routine or curating a new one, we will help you to address the symptoms and prevent further damage. 

Products that may assist:

• Gentle cleanser: Ultra Calming Cleanser, DMK Milk Cleanser
• Humectants: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, beta glucan: Ultra B2, Geta Gel
• Occlusive moisturizers: Rich cream or Calming cream
• Antioxidants: vitamin C and antioxidant serum
• Ceramides: Ultra Replenishing Mask
• Mists: Ultra Hydrating Skin Mist
• SPF: Ultraceuticals SPF 50+ Hydrating or Mattifying