If you've ever Googled "protection for broken skin," you know you're not alone, as searches for that term are on the rise.
One explanation for this starts with something called lock bore. Gone are the days when wacky skincare became a hobby, fueling 10-step routines and encyclopedias of ingredients.
Results? The dermis, the top layer of skin that serves as a ticket for megawatt light, looks about as healthy as a piece of grass on a freeway.
Because when the skin barrier is breached, external irritants penetrate and increase water loss in the skin, causing common skin diseases: rashes, depression, dryness and fine lines.
Thankfully, there are ways to fix it if your skin barrier doesn't meet the USP. Here's how to tell if your skin barrier is compromised and how to fix it.
What is a skin barrier?
The skin barrier known as the stratum corneum is basically the outer layer of skin and the first layer of skin made up of dry dead cells.
"It's there to protect the linings of healthy living cells," said Dr. Ifeoma Ejike, founder and medical director of Adonia Medical Clinic.
"These dead cells are sloughed off through a process called sloughing, and the cycle varies depending on your age, lasting 28-45 days in your 30s, 45-60 days in your 40s, and 90 days in your 50s."
The good news is that the stratum corneum is the most affected by products like acids and retinol. They speed up cell turnover and reveal healthy cells that are responsible for keeping skin glowing and glowing.
The bad news is that if you take too much of these products, the skin's protective function can be eroded. What does it mean for you? Irritated, tired and sensitive skin.
What does a broken shield look like?
Key signs of an impaired skin barrier? Expect everything from dryness, roughness, itching and redness to tenderness.
How do you know if your skin barrier is compromised?
"A damaged skin barrier increases your risk of infection and dermatitis. If you have these conditions, you can develop skin conditions like rosacea or eczema," says Dr. Ashwin Soni, Eye Surgeon and Aesthetic Physician at Getharli.
"The products you use regularly in your skincare routine can irritate or burn your skin when applied," she adds.
What causes the skin barrier to break down?
"The number one cause of damage to the skin barrier is excessive exfoliation. Using too many AAA or BHA or exfoliants can strip the skin of its natural oils and damage the barrier," said Dr. Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor at Light Clinic.
It can also be caused by any ingredient in your routine: vitamin C, retinoids, prescription acne treatments, alcohol in products, perfumed products, essential oils. Skipping moisture is also a problem for your barrier.
"The environment plays a big part, and if you don't protect your skin from UV rays with sunscreen, it can cause problems with your barrier function, just like pollution. Dry weather is also a problem," she added. .
Can a damaged skin barrier be repaired?
The good news is that your skin barrier can be repaired, and the process isn't too difficult.
"It's good to use a hyaluronic acid face serum to help lock in moisture and prevent it during the winter months, when skin tends to feel dry," said Dr. Charlotte Woodward, founder of River Beauty.
“Remember to moisturize after using the serum. It is an important step in your skin care routine as it provides your skin with essential nutrients to repair damage. Our favorite Zoe Growth Factor serum is formulated with clinically proven plant growth factors and enzymes to restore hydration and strengthen skin's defenses,” she adds.
How long does it take to repair the skin barrier?
"Depending on the severity of the barrier drop, I'd say you can expect barrier improvement within three to four weeks. For long-term damage, it can take up to three months," says Dr. Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist and WH Skin Profondo columnist.
Could your skin barrier be permanently damaged?
"The skin barrier is unlikely to be permanently damaged, but genetics, aging and certain environmental stressors can leave the skin barrier vulnerable," she said. sony
How to repair the skin barrier
1/ Let's go back to basics
Dr. Mahto advises first to "go back to basics and eliminate any acids/retinoids you may have used." Avoid anything that irritates your skin. Again, this can cause further irritation, so we want to be as gentle as possible while the skin heals.
2/ Be simple
“Sprinkle with a mild soap and use warm water when cleaning. "We want to avoid further irritation from very hot water," she said.
3/ Use a moisturizing agent
"Ideally, you want a moisturizer that contains ceramides and humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin). Next, I add a hydrating serum; you want to lock in all that moisture and moisture into the skin," explains Dr. sony
4/ Don't forget your FPS
"You should protect your skin with SPF 30-50 every day, because sun exposure is the main reason for skin protection," said Dr. the boy added.
5/ Rest
Finally, I make sure you get a good night's sleep, reduce the stress in your life as much as possible, and take care of your health, because it also helps repair your skin's defenses. Dr Soni said
What is the fastest way to heal the skin barrier?
Unfortunately, there's no quick fix to healing a damaged skin barrier, but if you can incorporate some of the above tips into your routine as soon as possible, you'll have a better chance of healing the skin barrier faster, explains Dr. Crown.
The best products to repair damaged skin
1/ The best cream to repair the damaged skin barrier
This exfoliating hero is formulated with AquaPort technology, which is basically a mega moisturizer. The results speak for themselves, after 20 minutes of application, the skin's moisture is increased by up to 81%.
2/ The best balm to repair damaged skin protection
Keep this tube handy to keep your skin plump throughout the day. It is packed with a cocktail of ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help restore and strengthen the damaged skin barrier.
3/ The best cleanser to repair the damaged skin barrier
With this great cleanser, you don't have to worry about harming your skin. Rich in prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics, they all work together to repair the damaged skin barrier and leave it clean, smooth and hydrated.