What Is Your Skin Barrier & How To Protect It

Did you know if your skin’s barrier is damaged and your skin struggles to hold onto moisture? Well, you can think of it as a coat of armour for the layers of your skin but multiple things can tear the barrier down such as pollution, UV rays, stress and blue light. Skin barrier helps to shield us from the external aggressors and irritants while sealing the moisture. With harsh waves, dust, pollution and sun rays our skin barrier gets compromised. And even as you start to age, our skin becomes compromised and it starts to look dull. The major side effect of a compromised moisture barrier, results in skin dryness. Let’s take you through ways to protect your skin barrier. 

What is the skin moisture barrier? 

The outer layer of our skin is called the stratum corneum which consists of cholesterol, fatty acids and ceramides that form our skin’s moisture barrier. Well, it plays a major role in preventing TWL (Transepidermal Water Loss) and keeps your skin moisturized. Also, it acts as a shield against all the environmental damages such as microbes, pollution and harmful UV rays that can cause damage to your skin. There have been numerous studies that reveal factors that contribute to a compromised skin moisture barrier, let’s name a few of them. 

• Environmental pollutants 
• Extreme weather conditions 
• Harsh skincare chemicals 
• Prolonged sun exposure 
• Skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis 

How to protect the skin moisture barrier?

We know your skin moisture barrier isn’t in the best shape, but hey don’t worry. You just need a little patience and consistency in your skincare regime and of course enriched nutrients products to bring your healthy skin back. 

Wearing an SPF is essential and is one of the best ways to keep your moisture barrier healthy. Slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you haven’t started yet because it can help to prevent future damage and breakouts. Also, remember to reapply your sunscreen every two to three hours! Invest in SPF that has physical sunscreen filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as they are known to provide maximum sun protection to your skin from UV rays. Moreover, physical SPFs are considered to be ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. We recommend you our broad-spectrum Bravocado SPF 50+ PA++++ Sunscreen Gel that comes with a non-greasy formula to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Formulated using active sunscreen filters, it shields your skin against sun damage and protects from photodamage, skin reactions and sunburn.

Whenever we over-exfoliate our skin it takes away all the essential skin natural oils and it can further lead to dull and dehydrated skin. An exfoliator can be a great pick. It removes dead skin cells, and conditions and nourishes your skin by removing extra sebum production and impurities from your skin. Quench’s Yuzu Fine 2-in-1 Vitamin C Scrub and Clay Mask is one of the star products to invest in as it deep cleanses your pores, gets rid of excess sebum and brightens your skin instantly. Packed with yuzu, ascorbic acid and apricot seed powder, this scrub unclogs pores and removes tan, impurities, and dead skin to reveal a healthier-looking and radiant complexion. But use it once a week ONLY! 

The benefits of humectants and emollients in restoring the barrier functions have always been incredible. And ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, cica, and ceramides do an incredible job of preventing TML transepidermal water loss while repairing the damaged barrier. Invest in the super lightweight Chialeader Oil Control Moisturizer, which comes infused with skin-loving ingredients like chia seed, cactus extracts and bamboo water along with calendula and rose myrtle fruit extracts. Thinking about what it does? Our moisturizer helps fight the signs of ageing, and soothes itchy and dry skin while making it feel plump, dewy and soft.

A healthy skin pH level plays an essential role in maintaining the healthy barrier function. While you are investing in your skincare routine products (even for basic CTM) be cautious and avoid using harsh cleansers that are packed with paraben and sulfates as they can further dry up your skin. Instead, opt for gentle cleansers — Yuzu Fine Vitamin C Foaming Face Wash is a refreshing formula with superfood yuzu to remove all impurities, grime and detoxify skin. This face wash also prevents and treats acne, pigmentation, open pores and uneven skin tone. Whether you have dry, dull, or blotchy skin - this foaming face wash takes care of all your concerns!

A diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants helps you to fight free radicals and protect your skin barrier. Investing in fresh green vegetables, citrus fruits, and berries protects your skin while hydrating your skin all day long. Moreover, it is always advisable to intake water as it helps your skin to be hydrated from within and will provide a natural glow. 

Now that you are well aware of the importance of the skin barrier and what role it plays in performing healthy skin functions, stick to a gentle skincare regime and avoid aggressors. In simple words, always take care of the skin moisture barrier as it will be the best investment for plump, healthy, soft and youthful-looking skin.