How To Repair Your Skin Barrier, According To Dermatologists

Age is also an important factor, says facialist Sarah Chapman. "As we age, our skin's production of lipids, ceramides and humectants, the three main components that make up the skin barrier, slows down."

So, how do you repair the skin barrier when it's damaged?

Simplify your skin care routine

The first thing to do is to identify and eliminate those that may contribute to damage to the skin barrier. "Drop your routine skincare routine and keep it simple," advises facialist Catherine McKenzie Patterson.

"Consider using a cleanser, moisturizer and SPF, especially avoiding retinoids or acids." As for your cleanser, she recommends choosing a nourishing, soothing milk or fragrance-free cleanser like iS Clinical Cream Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser. change it too much because it takes weeks to get it right,” says Dr. Craythorne. "It could have been worse before. it gets better."

Restoration and repair

Look for moisturizers rich in ceramides and include hyaluronic acid in your routine to soothe and hydrate skin, says Dr. Sommerlad. "I recommend Vichy Mineral 89 as a good serum, followed by a soothing moisturizer," she says. With a range of restorative moisturisers on the market to suit all budgets, Dr Craythorn recommends La Roche-Posay's Cicplast Baume B5, Cetaphil Rich Night Cream and SkinCeuticals Epidermal Repair to help restore the skin barrier to its former glory.

In addition to hyaluronic acid, "look for barrier-strengthening ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and fatty acids," advises Ouronyx esthetician Dr. Marco Nicolozza. "They will all help improve the drought and strengthen the fence." To reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process, facialist Shane Cooper recommends trying red light therapy. you can use an LED mask at home or see a facial care professional. It combines with many skin care formulas to help restore moisture.

He does it slowly

It may seem obvious, but in addition to cutting back on your skin care routine, it's also important to avoid anything that manually exfoliates your skin, such as harsh washcloths or scrubs. "You should also use warm water to prevent further irritation," says Dr. Mahto, adding that there's no quick fix, but a combination of these tips will help your skin heal as quickly as possible. “I would say conservatively you can expect the obstruction to subside within three to four weeks; long-term damage can take up to three months.'

Turn off active components…

Then go back slowly, but only when the skin is healthy again. "Reintroduce one activity (for example, use retinoids for a few weeks before adding vitamin C or a liquid peel), but if you have chronic skin barrier dysfunction, you should choose a gentler activity," explains Dr. For example, you can replace retinol with retinaldehyde (Crystal Retinal by Medik8 is a great option) because it's gentler on the skin. As for acids, look for AHAs, not AHAs. because. they require less lubrication than grease. I like Vichy Capital Soleil and Garnier Ambre Solaire Anti-Pollution because they also contain niacinamide,” adds Dr. Sommerlad.

How to prevent further damage

"Like everything in life, a healthy skin barrier is all about moderation and balance," says Mackenzie Patterson. "Try to avoid triggers that caused it in the past, and don't cut back or change the products you use every five minutes." In general, approach your routine and listen to your skin, especially when adding a new active ingredient, Chapman recommends starting slowly and letting your skin adjust.