Thanks to the internet, we’re more knowledgeable than ever. But do you really know how to take care of your skin's defence – the skin barrier?
In a world of beauty trends and buzzwords, you've likely encountered phrases like "skin barrier" and "barrier repair." These terms are often thrown around alongside promises of radiant skin and a flawless complexion, but do you really understand the importance of this protective shield?
What does skin barrier mean?
To put it simply, your skin is made up of many layers - the outermost layer is called the skin barrier. Think of it as your skin's border control team!
The skin barrier lets the good stuff your skin needs in, like water and nutrients, while sending bad stuff, like germs and dirt, packing. Without a skin barrier, the water in our body would evaporate immediately, leaving us completely dehydrated. Maintaining a healthy skin barrier plays an integral role to how your skin looks and feels, because, without it, your skin is more vulnerable to irritants, causing damage and sensitivity.
"When we think of the organs that keep us alive, we may think of the heart or lungs, but believe it or not, the skin barrier is one of the most important organs in our body."
- Lucy McGeough, Owner + Founder Vanity Lab London
What can cause damage to your skin barrier?
Using too many skincare products and actives can cause skin barrier damage and as we’re tempted by the never-ending stream of trending products, it's easy to overdo it. Using products unsuitable for your skin type, abrasives such as harsh scrubs and even everyday life can take its toll on your skin barrier, from stressors such as stress, hormones, UV rays, pollution, lack of sleep, harsh weather and lifestyle choices such as smoking or a poor diet
While some of these factors are beyond our control, recognising the cause of skin barrier damage can help you take action.
How to recognise when your skin barrier is damaged
A healthy skin barrier gives the appearance of a smooth and even-toned complexion, yet when the skin barrier is damaged, you’ll notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Irritation
- Rosacea
- Delayed healing
- Visible infections
- Itchy or dry texture
- Hyperpigmentation
- Dull or delicate skin
How to repair and prevent skin barrier damage
If you find yourself with a compromised skin barrier, the good news is, it can be repaired! Here’s what our WOW facial skin experts advise:
"Made up of cells, lipids and acids all tightly bound together, the skin barrier stops nasty external factors from our environment like allergens, microbes and chemicals from penetrating our skin."
- Lucy McGeough, Owner + Founder Vanity Lab London
Take a holistic approach
Your skin's health isn't just about external products; it's an outward expression of your inner well-being. Nourish your body with healthy foods, drink plenty of water everyday, prioritise quality sleep and try to manage stress effectively, and you'll soon start noticing a more radiant complexion.
Skin-stream your routine
If your skin barrier appears damaged, give your skin a break from products such as retinols, exfoliants and even Vitamin C. Instead, focus on fuss-free skincare that prioritises hydration and replenishment. As you see improvements, you can gradually reintroduce products to see how your skin reacts. Bear in mind, reactions are often not immediate. We recommend never introducing more than one product a month.
Restore and repair
Skin barrier creams provide a protective layer to prevent moisture loss. They’re often thicker than your regular moisturiser, making them especially helpful for dry or sensitive skin types or treating a damaged skin barrier. For long-term protection, seek moisturisers rich in ceramides and consider incorporating hyaluronic acid into your routine for a healthy barrier.
"While the outermost layer is defending us from these threats, the skin barrier is also keeping the water in our bodies balanced, keeping us hydrated and stopping us from drying out entirely. It really is a vital organ."
- Lucy McGeough, Owner + Founder Vanity Lab London
Consult an expert
Curating your own skincare routine based on hearsay about the latest trending product can backfire. Consulting an expert will save you time and money by tailoring a routine to your specific needs, and will likely speed up your journey toward optimal skin health. Visit a skin expert to curate a routine using active skincare products optimal for your specific skin type. Making this simple swap from over-the-counter products will transform your skin.
Regular professional advanced treatments
The WOW facial is the ultimate treatment designed to improve the skin’s barrier function; the six-stage advanced facial begins with a thorough consultation to analyse your skin, then a treatment regimen will be tailored to you, curated to restore your skin health. The WOW facial treatment teases the skin back to health without overstimulating or creating compromises in the skin barrier function which can lead to transepidermal water loss - thus supporting your skin to stay radiant and healthy.
"If we think of the skin barrier as our fortress wall, then WOW treatments help us keep the bricks intact and tightly connected, while also giving it the most gorgeous coat of paint."
- Lucy McGeough, Owner + Founder Vanity Lab London
Prevention is better than cure
Using a good-quality SPF every day is absolutely key to skin health (we can’t stress this enough!). Synergy 6NX-Gen SPF 50 includes both a physical UV filter and a chemical UV filter, for double protection from ultraviolet rays. This wonder product also provides a specialised infrared block not only preventing damage from the sun, but also device screens.
It’s protective ingredients ensure the layers between skin cells are not damaged, maintaining the skin's barrier and preventing redness and sensitivity.
Your skin barrier is your skin's unsung hero
It works tirelessly to shield you from the elements and maintain your skin's well-being. But it's easy to feel confused in a world of trends and technical terms. Try to resist chopping and changing your routine at the sight of every new beauty craze. Focus on a more skin-imalist routine that works for you, and you’ll be rewarded with a strong, resilient barrier that allows your natural radiance to shine through.
You can find your nearest WOW facial professional by clicking ‘Find a provider’ from our main menu and following the steps.
Author: Danielle
Category: Professional, Skincare, WOW Journal