Inflamed skin

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), hydrating moisturiser, and sun screen which can all help protect your skin barrier.