When the skins barrier function is impaired, that means the homeostasis of the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin) is disrupted. Sometimes multiple layers are affected all the way down to the dermis, meaning your collagen and elastin can become compromised and trust me, you don’t want that. Some of the signs of an impaired skin barrier include

• Dehydration

• Redness

• Stinging skin

• Itching

• Flaky skin

• Lines

• Wrinkles

• Breakouts

• Excess oil

• Blackheads

• Other lesions (due to acne, eczema, dermatitis etc..)

A combination of the above make the skin more susceptible to irritants and bacteria penetrating the surface. This is due to the absence or destruction of the hydrolipid barrier (a film on the surface of the skin containing sebum/oils/lipids, sweat and water) that essentially protects the skin. When we see cases like this in clinic, the first thing we will look to address in the skin is the underlying cause, followed by protection and restoration because with an impaired barrier function comes a long list of other issues, which long-term are likely to damage the skin, causing inflammation (inflammation = premature ageing).

What are some reasons your skin barrier isn’t working as it should?

• Internal health factors and accumulation of waste products (toxins)

• Incorrect use of products or using products that are not suitable for the needs of your skin

• Abuse (overuse) of highly active skin care and over-exfoliation

• Aggressive skin treatments

• Unprotected & prolonged UV exposure

• Atmospheric pollution

• Make-up wipes

• Stress

• Alcohol

• Poor diet

• A diet high in sugars and trans fatty acids

What can you do to protect your skin?

Firstly, see a professional skin therapist and get the right advice. Invest in some good quality skin care that has been recommended for your current skin health state. You don’t need to spend a fortune but it does need to include high quality ingredients, so sometimes that means spending a little more than you normally would at department stores or the supermarket.

While having in-clinic treatments regularly will definitely help, 70-80% of what you do at home, skin care, diet and lifestyle, is crucial for protecting your skin. Develop a ritual that you follow daily and perhaps formulate a budget to help your incorporate regular visits to your skin care professional. This is not only going to benefit your skin, but is essential for your wellbeing and it also helps the therapist to check on your skin, monitor changes and adjust homecare products where necessary.

Last but not least, sun protection. There is a misconception that sunscreen/blockers only need to be used in the warmer months, at the beach or when in directly exposed to the sun and while short bouts of regular sun exposure is actually very important for our health, it can be detrimental to our skin and its impossible to know for sure who will be adversely affected so choosing and using good sun protection daily is a must. It will also help to prevent pigmentation and sunspots, sensitivity causing that barrier function to become impaired, fine lines and wrinkles as a result collagen and elastin degradation and damage.

To learn more about skin health or if you’d like to book an appointment to discuss your skin needs or concerns click on the link below

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