Our skin is a remarkable organ made up of complex structures and layers that serve as a shield between our bodies and the external world. The outermost layer - known as the skin barrier - is a waterproof seal that protects the skin from environmental aggressors, maintains moisture levels and prevents the skin from becoming dehydrated.
If this protective barrier becomes impaired it can lead to various skin issues from acne flare-ups and sensitivity, to wrinkles and other ageing concerns. Because of its vital role in skin health, it is very important to know how to repair a damaged skin barrier. In this guide, we'll explain what the skin barrier is, how it can become impaired, and how to repair your skin barrier naturally.
What is the Skin Barrier?
The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, which is composed of lipids, proteins, and dead skin cells. It forms a wall-like structure —otherwise known as the skin barrier, that performs multiple functions to keep your skin healthy. It maintains the skin's microbiome and pH levels, which help to keep germs and pathogens at bay while protecting the skin from environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution. When the skin barrier is healthy, your skin will feel smooth and soft, and radiate a youthful glow.
How To Know if Your Skin Barrier is Damage
The first sign of a damaged skin barrier is dehydration, which can show up as redness, irritation, and itchy, flaky skin. The skin cannot protect itself from environmental hazards and allergens and can become sensitive and reactive to skincare products, as well as hot, cold, and dry air.
Several external factors can contribute to a weakened skin barrier, such as excessive exposure to the sun, not wearing sunscreen and the lack of a suitable skincare routine. Additional external culprits are skincare products containing harsh alcohols and surfactants, drinking too much coffee or alcohol, and not drinking enough water. Over time, these factors have a detrimental effect on the health of your skin barrier, resulting in dehydration and sensitivity. If left untreated a damaged skin barrier will eventually lead to wrinkles, pigmentation marks and other visible signs of premature ageing.
How to Repair Your Skin Barrier Naturally
Hydration is Key:- Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin from within.
- Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping natural oils.
Protect with Antioxidants:
- Use products rich in antioxidants to help repair and prevent free radical damage caused by UV rays.
- Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning to work with your sun protection.
- Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalane.
- These ingredients play a key role in the wall-like structure of the skin barrier and restoring them aids in the healing and rebuilding process.
- Natural and organic face oils replenish epidermal lipids, promoting a strong, healthy skin barrier.
- Incorporate oils like jojoba, rosehip, or prickly pear seed oils into your skincare routine to replenish depleted lipids.
- Choose a gentle exfoliator with natural ingredients like fruit acids.
- Avoid harsh face scrubs that can further damage the skin barrier.
Sunscreen even if it’s NOT Sunny:
- Here at Krī Skincare, we believe that sunscreen is not just for sunny days.
- It is impossible to repair and prevent a damaged skin barrier without sunscreen. It is a non-negotiable step in your morning routine.
Neglecting to wear facial sunscreen every day —just because it isn’t sunny, leaves your skin unprotected from environmental hazards such as the UV rays that instigate premature ageing.
Nurturing your skin back to health involves understanding the importance of the skin barrier and adopting a natural and minimal approach to your skincare routine. By following our guide, you can strengthen and repair your skin barrier naturally.
Here are six Krī Skincare products to help restore your skin to its vibrant and resilient state:
To Cleanse: Unveil Cleansing Oil,
To protect: Illume Niacinamide Serum, Vitamin C + Broccoli Serum, SPF30 Mineral Sunscreen
To revitalise: Renew Serum,
To nourish and restore: Endless Moisturiser, Replenish Super Seed Face Oil