It's Time To Get Back To Basics, Here Are The 5 Ways To Restore A Damaged Skin Barrier
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Loading... - Chantal Dubois
- 25 May 2022
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We've all experienced our fair share of skin woes this year, but one particularly common problem has been irritated skin.
We've all experienced our fair share of skin woes this year, but one particularly common problem has been irritated skin.
Thanks to a not-so-winning combination of way too much time and product on our hands, plus a spike in online beauty shopping, it's fair to say that our skin has experienced a lot of changes over the last few months (well, year).
In scientific terms, changes in lifestyle, daily routine and a surge in stress can culminate in the skin's natural protective barrier becoming compromised, leaving you with red, itchy, sensitive skin that's reactive and uncomfortable.
"Our 'skin barrier' is the outermost layer of our skin, composed of skin cells that are held together with a rich cement made up of lipids (oils), cholesterol, moisturising factors, and antibacterial proteins," Dr. Ryan De Cruz, Dermal Therapy brand ambassador and founder of Southern Dermatology Melbourne, tells ELLE Australia.
"It is like the brick wall of a house, whereby the skin cells are the 'bricks' and the intercellular lipids are the 'mortar'."
So how do you go about restoring your skin barrier? Well, according to Dr. De Cruz, it's all about the basics—starting with the cause of the damage and working from there.
"The best way to soothe and repair a damaged skin barrier is to use basic, soap-free cleansers that are pH-balanced and rich in the natural lipids that are found in the skin," he recommends, adding that "ingredients such as a ceramides, niacinamide, shea butter and colloidal oatmeal have been proven clinically to repair a damaged skin barrier".
Below, we've detailed the best ways to repair (and care for) your skin barrier when it's in desperate need of some TLC.
WATER TEMPERATURE
One of the most common culprits of skin barrier damage is water temperature. Water that's either too hot, or too cold, can strip the skin of its protective outer layers leaving rough, dry and irritated skin in place of healthy, soft, smooth and glowing skin.
Luckily it's a quick and easy fix: always ensure you're using lukewarm water, especially when cleansing your face.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
While we're undeniably blessed to be able to have as much sunshine in our lives as we do, those glorious rays are far from friendly for our complexions.
We all know that UVA/UVA and other environmental aggression, such as smoke and pollution, can cause premature ageing, but in the short term, they can also impact your skin's barrier.
A broad-spectrum SPF is a must, and if your skin feels particularly irritated right now, double up with an antioxidant-rich cream or protective spray that guards against environmental damage. Try the Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray, which you can wear over makeup, or bare skin after you've applied SPF.
OVER-CLEANSING
Washing your face at least once a day is a must, but no matter how good it feels to take the day off, it's important to go easy on the cleansing.
Even the gentlest of cleansers can strip the skin of essential lipids which work to hydrate and protect our skin. Keep going at that barrier with soapy formulas and you're bound to create a problem.
We'd recommend a cream or clean, antioxidant-rich cleanser as a go-to everyday option.
EXFOLIATING
Whether you're into physical or chemical exfoliants, moderation is always key. Because, despite helping to slough away dead skin cells and reveal a fresh glow, actives and abrasive granules can quickly become a problem if your skin is irritated.
Whether your skin is in peak health, or in need of a reboot, you can't beat the ease and efficacy of a sheet mask. Take a minute to load the skin up with moisture and nourishing nutrients from this serum-soaked Minenssey treatment mask to revive your skin back to its optimal health. Its pro-biotic solution supports the skin's natural renewal process making it a go-to for anyone trying to get their skin barrier back in good shape. Read More...
