Protecting the Skin Barrier
Taking care of our skin is important, and protecting the skin barrier can help protect your skin from damage or irritants. When our skin barrier is damaged, we become dehydrated, and our skin can look dull or dry. The good news is there are things you can do to repair your skin barrier once it is damaged.
What Is the Skin Barrier?
Our skin is made up of lamellar sheets that are located between the cells of the top layer of our skin. This top layer is called the stratum corneum, and is made up of fatty acids, ceramides, and cholesterol. This layer helps to hold your skin cells in place. The skin barrier acts as a guard to your skin, and helps to protect your skin from irritants or bacteria. The barrier also seals in moisture, and helps to keep your skin hydrated.
If you have a healthy skin barrier your skin is hydrated or moisturized. A healthy skin barrier can fight off any environmental pollutants and ages slowly. On the other hand, if you have a weak skin barrier you may notice your skin is affected by allergens or irritants, and is dry and dehydrated. This can cause your skin to look dull or dry, and can lead to inflammation or even premature aging.
How Does the Skin Barrier Become Damaged?
As you age your skin is exposed to many toxins or environmental stressors that can break down the skin barrier. Over treating or cleansing your skin can also compromise your skin’s structure and weaken your skins layers. This causes bacteria or other irritants to be able to reach your skin more easily, and you will lose moisture and elasticity. Other issues caused by a damaged skin barrier are premature aging, inflammation, and fine lines and wrinkles.
What Causes Damage to the Skin Barrier?
Pollution
Aging
UV exposure
Bacteria
Stress
Harsh chemicals in skin care products
Poor diet
Over cleansing or exfoliating
Genetic conditions
What Are the Symptoms of a Damaged Skin Barrier?
Dehydration
Redness
Irritation or itching
Dry skin
Fine lines and wrinkles
How Can I Protect or Repair the Skin Barrier?
Keep Your Skin Moisturized
Protect your skin barrier by keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized. To do this you need to drink plenty of water, and apply skin care products that help to hydrate and moisturize your skin.
Protect Your Skin With Sunscreen
Remember to apply sunscreen every day to protect your skin and avoid UV exposure. Using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Eat a Diet Rich in Antioxidants
Treat your skin from within by following a healthy and antioxidant rich diet. Fuel your body with vitamin C and antioxidants to fight off environmental stressors. Look for skin products that contain ingredients that help to fight the signs of aging.
Use Organic Skin Products
Choose products that do not contain harsh chemicals that can damage or disrupt the skin barrier. Look for natural or organic products that help to provide your skin with the proper nutrients. This can help strengthen your skin barrier, and protect your skin from irritants or stressors.
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