A compromised skin barrier means the outer layer of your skin is damaged. The outer layer of the skin protects your skin from environmental factors and keeps moisture in. A compromised skin barrier leads to dryness, irritation, breakouts, redness, roughness, flaking and eventually fine lines and wrinkles.
A compromised skin barrier can result from over-exfoliation, harsh products, sun exposure, aging, hormonal changes, allergens, pollutants and skin conditions like eczema or acne.
Once your skin becomes dry this can prevent the skin barrier from recovering which creates a vicious cycle that is hard to break. Moisturizers are the first line of defence to keep your skin hydrated and prevent water loss allowing your skin barrier to recover.
Other important considerations are using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser (5.5), a hydrating moisturiser, and sun screen which can all help protect your skin barrier.
What makes a good moisturising routine is the inclusion of these 3 types of moisturising agents: Humectants, Emollients, Occlusives. To simplify, Humectants retain moisture, Emollients add oil to smooth the skin and Occlusives create a barrier to lock in the moisture. We have included a list of ingredients below if you would like to build your own routine. We have also listed ingredients by skin type.
A routine can include a toner, essence, serum, ampoule, moisturiser and oil. If this all seems overwhelming, start with a moisturiser and this will cover most of your skins needs. It is common to find Humectants in serums and essences which is a great way to boost hydration.
Humectants: Glycerine, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol, amino acids, lactic acid and urea.
Emollients: Jojoba oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, squalane, dimethicone and ceramide.
Occlusives: Shea butter, bee wax, Lanolin, Aquaphor, Tamanu oil, Petroleum jelly or petrolatum.
Skin ingredients by skin type:
- Panthenol: Suitable for all skin types, known for its soothing properties.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Suitable for all skin types, particularly beneficial for mature or dry skin.
- Glycerin: Suitable for all skin types, oily and dry skin
- Petrolatum, Butters, Waxes, Heavier Silicones: Benefit dry or dehydrated skin, may not be suitable for acne-prone skin.
- Squalane oil Suitable for all skin types, especially beneficial for dry or eczema-prone skin, sensitive skin prone to irritation.
- Ceramides: Beneficial for all skin types, particularly helpful for dry, sensitive, damaged, or mature skin.
- Lactic acid is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
- Dimethicone benefits all skin types.
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