How You Can Save Your Skin’s Natural Barrier

Your skin’s natural, airtight barrier is the key to making sure that the good stuff you apply stays in, and the bad stuff you don’t want to come in stays out. However, your skin’s barrier can become fragile and break easily if you’re overdoing your skincare routine. When your skin’s natural barrier becomes damage, it can no longer maintain the structures of its fatty acids and ceramides, leaving you with rough and dehydrated skin. You might also start to get sensitivity and a dull complexion as a result.

So how can you minimize damage to your skin’s barrier? Here are some ways:

• Overall – Look for products that contain ceramides, probiotics and hyaluronic acids to help replenish your skin
• Exfoliation – Limiting it to twice a week, or using a mild daily use exfoliating agent. Overall, you shouldn’t be wincing while exfoliating your skin.
• Moisturization – Even if your skin feels moisturized, you should still continue to use this product regardless. As a side note, you should also stop touching your face and picking on your skin.
• Serums – For retinol, you want to feel comfortable while it’s on, not feeling any burning sensations on your skin. Antioxidants should be smooth,  not grainy and without any shards that can potentially scratch your skin.
• Sunscreens – Always apply and re-apply regularly to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Never skip out on this as it is the most essential product for skincare.