A healthy skin barrier is the secret to glowing skin. When it’s healthy, our skin looks radiant and plump, but when it’s damaged it can become prone to dryness, inflammation, breakouts and more!
If you’ve been dealing with skin issues that just won’t go away, your skin barrier could well be to blame! Keep reading to learn about 9 common signs of a damaged skin barrier, why yours may be compromised and the best solutions to fix it!
What is our skin barrier?
The outer most layer of our skin, or technically known as the stratum corneum, our skin barrier is a complex system of lipids, proteins and cells. It’s the first line of defence against bacteria and external aggressors, from pollution and harsh weather conditions, to stress, smoking and even blue light damage from our digital devices! Think of it as a protective shield keeping irritants out and locking moisture in.
What are the most common signs of a damaged skin barrier?
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Increased sensitivity
Do you find your skin reacting to products that never used to be a problem? Unfortunately a damaged barrier can make your skin hypersensitive. This means that products with active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C might suddenly cause stinging or irritation. Aghh
How to fix it: Simplify your skincare routine. Focus on soothing and hydrating skin. Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products designed specifically for sensitive skin, then slowly reintroduce active ingredients once your barrier is repaired.
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Dryness and Flakiness
Dry, flaky skin can be a major sign that your skin barrier isn’t holding onto moisture the way it should. Even if you’re moisturising regularly, your skin might still feel parched and tight.
How to fix it: You need to incorporate a hydrating serum rich in hyaluronic acid into your daily routine and up the ante with your moisturiser too! You want a nourishing moisturiser formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin which will help lock in moisture and rebuild the barrier.
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Redness and Inflammation
One of the first indicators of a damaged skin barrier is redness that just won’t go away. If your skin is constantly inflamed, blotchy, or has developed conditions like rosacea, it’s a sign that your protective layer is compromised. Without the barrier functioning properly, your skin is more susceptible to irritants and environmental factors that can cause persistent redness.
How to fix it: Calm your skin with products containing anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide, aloe vera, and chamomile. Avoid anything that could further irritate your skin, like harsh exfoliants or overly fragrant products.
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Breakouts and Acne
When your skin barrier is compromised, your skin can overproduce oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. This can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and even acne in those of us who normally have clear skin.
How to fix it: Use a gentle cleanser that will remove excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. And make sure you avoid products that could clog your pores. Incorporate lightweight, oil-free moisturisers that hydrate without causing breakouts.
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Tightness and Discomfort
Do you often feel like your skin is tight or uncomfortable, especially after cleansing? This could be a sign that your barrier is stripped of its natural oils. When your skin loses its protective lipids, it can no longer maintain its elasticity and comfort, leading to a sensation of tightness.
How to fix it: The first step to fixing tight, uncomfortable skin is to replenish lost moisture and help rebuild the lipid layer of the barrier. Creamy or oil-based cleansers are great for restoring hydration while gently removing dirt and impurities and look for products rich in ceramides, fatty acids, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and squalane which will help restore the natural protective layer as well as lock in moisture.
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Hyperpigmentation
A weakened barrier can make your skin more susceptible to damage from the sun and environmental pollutants, leading to an increase in hyperpigmentation such as dark spots, also known as age spots and sun spots! If you notice that your skin is developing more pigmentation issues, it could be a sign that your barrier needs some serious TLC.
How to fix it: Incorporate antioxidants such as vitamin c and niacinamide into your skincare routine as they can help repair the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots by neutralizing free radicals. Once your barrier is stronger you can then start introducing targeted treatments to fade hyperpigmentation. And sunscreen is a non-negotiable! Look for sunscreens that not only protect your skin from sun damage but also help repair hyperpigmentation too!
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Itching and burning sensations
If your skin feels itchy, tingly, or has a burning sensation, even when you’re using your usual products, this could be a sign that your skin barrier has been compromised. This discomfort is your skin’s way of telling you it needs some extra care.
How to fix it: Avoid using hot water on your face and skip harsh treatments like scrubs or peels. Opt for soothing, fragrance-free moisturisers and avoid over-washing.
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Dehydrated skin despite an oily appearance
Ever had skin that feels oily on the surface but tight and dry underneath? This is a classic sign of a damaged barrier. Your skin might be overproducing oil to make up for the lack of moisture, leading to that uncomfortable mix of oily and dehydrated skin.
How to fix it: Balance your skin with hydrating products that aren’t too heavy. Hyaluronic acid serums and light, non-greasy moisturisers can help provide the moisture your skin needs without adding excess oil. Ingredients like glycerin and squalane can provide moisture balance.
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Premature ageing
Without proper protection, your skin is more exposed to free radicals and environmental damage which can accelerate the ageing process! Therefore a damaged skin barrier can lead to premature wrinkles, fine lines, and a loss of elasticity.
How to fix it: Focus on repairing your barrier with nourishing, antioxidant-rich products that protect and strengthen your skin. Incorporate ingredients like peptides, vitamin C, vitamin E and sunscreen to help combat free radicals and boost collagen production.
Why do you have a damaged skin barrier?
A damaged skin barrier can result from a variety of factors! Anything from your lifestyle and skincare habits to the environment. Here are the most common reasons your skin barrier could be compromised right now;
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Over-exfoliation
Using exfoliants too frequently, whether physical scrubs or chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs), can strip away the outermost layer of your skin. This layer is crucial for protecting the underlying skin, and over-exfoliating can leave your skin vulnerable to damage.
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Harsh skincare products
Products with high concentrations of active ingredients, such as retinol or acids, can be too strong for some skin types, especially if used too often or without proper moisturising and sun protection. Harsh cleansers with sulfates or alcohol can also strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to a weakened barrier.
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Environmental factors
Exposure to extreme weather conditions—like harsh winds, cold temperatures, or excessive sun—can compromise your skin barrier. Pollution and other environmental toxins can also stress the skin, leading to barrier damage over time.
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Dehydration
There are many reasons your skin might be dehydrated. From the products you are using (you need more moisture) to a change in weather or simply being over exposed to hot or cold air be it air con or heating! And then there is the chance we are simply dehydrated from not drinking enough water I know many of us can be guilty of that!
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Over-cleansing
Washing your face too often or using water that’s too hot can strip your skin of its natural oils. This over-cleansing can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance and lead to barrier damage. Eek!
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Stress and lack of sleep
Sadly stress and inadequate sleep can really take a toll on our skin. Stress hormones like cortisol can lead to inflammation and impair the skin’s ability to repair itself, making your barrier more susceptible to damage.
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Allergies and irritants
Using products that contain allergens or irritants, such as fragrances or certain preservatives, can trigger allergic reactions or irritation, leading to a compromised skin barrier.
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Poor diet
Yes! You read that right. What you eat can definitely reflect on your skin! A diet lacking in essential nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, can weaken your skin barrier. Consuming too much sugar or processed foods can also lead to inflammation and skin issues.
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Ageing
As you age, your skin naturally loses some of its ability to retain moisture and regenerate. This makes the skin barrier more prone to damage and less efficient at protecting against external factors.
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Medical Conditions
Certain skin conditions, like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, inherently involve a compromised skin barrier. These conditions require specific care to help manage symptoms and protect the skin.
How to repair a damaged skin barrier
If you now know your skin barrier has been damaged there are simple steps you can take to fix it so fear not! Just remember restoring your skin barrier won’t happen overnight though, so make sure you are consistent with your care and you will see improvements we promise! Here are a few general tips:
Avoid hot water
Ok so this is one I am definitely guilty of. I LOVE a piping hot shower or bath but I do know that this is damaging my skin! Sadly hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and irritation. Try to be less like me and use lukewarm water when at least cleansing your face!
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps to maintain your skin’s hydration levels from the inside out (one hand holding my water bottle as I type this!)
Try to manage stress and get plenty of shut eye!
Stress-reducing activities like meditation, listening to music and exercise can definitely help alleviate stress. And there is a reason “beauty sleep” is a thing! By trying to get enough sleep (7-9 hours day night) can really make a difference to your skin.
Protect your skin from the sun
Well this is definitely a given. We all know that the sun is the no. 1 cause of damage to our skin. And unfortunately a damaged barrier is more vulnerable to UV damage, so make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. You should already be anyway!
Simplify your routine and use nourishing skincare
Less is more when your skin barrier is damaged. Stick to a basic cleanser, cut back on exfoliants, retinol creams, and other potentially irritating products and focus on gentle, hydrating serums and moisturisers formulated with nourishing and barrier-repairing ingredients including ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin. These ingredients help to replenish your skin’s natural lipids and restore its protective function.
Try;
Pevonia CleanRefresh™ Foaming Oil Cleanser
Suitable for all skin types but especially recommended for dry, parched skin, this innovative, triple duty oil cleanser features an advanced lipid rich, alcohol-free, soap-free, exclusive formula rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalane oil which transforms into a luxurious, foamy cleanser for a truly luxurious cleansing experience.
“Noticed a big different sin skin texture and even pores look better.” - Kathryn D
Vie Collection Vita B3 Concentrated Solution
Formulated with niacinamide and glycerin, this light, melting textured serum is like a shot for the skin that will visibly improve skin’s radiance in next to no time! We are talking brighter, happier, healthier skin! Plus with continued use this product will significantly decrease pigmentation while reinforcing the protective functions of the skin barrier for the optimal skin health.
“I love this serum! It’s become a staple in my skincare routine. It has slowly and gently removed ALL the sunspots I had on my face from never using sunscreen in my younger years. My skin is also now so much more radiant after introducing it! I’m one very happy customer.” - Lorna M
Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum
This serum features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, combined with a powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract for optimum anti-ageing results. It penetrates deeply into the skin delivering smoother, softer, plumper, firming and brighter skin! What’s more it’s ideal for all skin types!
“I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!” - Mary C
Pevonia Marine Collagen Cream
Any Pevonia fan will tell you this is the “go to” cream for replenishing vital nutrients and smoothing away dehydration lines, fine lines and wrinkles. This global best-seller is in fact abundant in ceramides, hyaluronic acid and collagen, and acts like a moisture magnet, plumping and firming the skin immediately.
“I absolutely love this cream. It is a day cream and night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤️” Ana H
Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin Mask
Containing a cocktail of vitamins and hyaluronic acid, this sensational mask reveals hydrated skin and a radiant complexion. With each application, skin is visibly smoothed and plumped.
”My skin was feeling patchy with the changing seasons, but after one application of this mask it felt better moisturised and fresher. Dry, flaky patches were soothed and smoothed with my powder foundation sitting much better the very next day. I’ve used it once or twice a week since and my skin tends to feel plump and fresh for a good 4 days after using the mask. Very gentle and soothing.” - A McBride
Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield
If you’re a little reluctant to wear your sunscreen because quite frankly its smell and greasy texture puts you off, you are going to love this lightweight emulsion! Much like its counterpart, this everyday sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away.
It won’t clog pores and rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones.
“Love this product it gives all day sun protection doesn’t mark clothing and gives my skin a healthy glow I’m hooked!” – Jan C
Hubislab Post Rays Chamomile Complex 70% Ampoule
Formulated with 70% Chamomile, combined with other natural soothing and hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid and glycerin, this nourishing serum deeply penetrates sensitive or irritated skin to calm, purify, protect and strengthen. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, it effectively safeguards skin barrier and helps to soothe and restore your complexion.
Vie Collection Mela White Protective Sunscreen SPF 30
This is not only an amazing daily sunscreen to protect skin from UV rays, but it’s also formulated with two high-tech ingredients that act against dark spots and free radicals. With regular use your dark spots will become less visible and your skin more unified. It’s fantastic!
Hubislab Derm Max Brightening Clinic
This deeply moisturising night cream as a true multitasker! Formulated with a vitamin complex and Tranexamic acid it not only helps correct pigmentation but deeply nourishes and soothe irritation too while also improving skin elasticity! So if your skin has been compromised and you want to achieve smoother, more refined skin with an even tone consider this your new go-to!
What’s more! For the month of September 2024, when you purchase this product, you’ll receive a FREE Hubislab Nova Cell Brightening Mask. This mask gently exfoliates while delivering a powerful boost of moisture and pigment-blocking ingredients.
Your skin barrier is crucial for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. By recognizing the signs of damage early and taking steps to repair it, you can restore your skin’s natural defences and enjoy a clearer, more radiant complexion. Remember, consistency is key so be patient and gentle with your skin as you work towards recovery.