Why is the Skin Barrier Important?
In recent years, we’ve been talking more and more about the skin barrier. The reason we’ve been discussing it and even becoming aware of it is the very damage we’ve inflicted on it. However, it’s not just environmental factors that are responsible for this, but also digital factors. Social media trends we can't resist, harsh skincare products with colorful packaging that catch our eye, using these products without questioning if they suit our skin type, and then being at a loss about how to deal with irritated skin...
With new trends, we have distanced ourselves from multi-functional products focused on solving issues. We have countless serums with different ingredients on our tables. But are we chemists? Can we know which ingredient shouldn’t be used together in the same routine and the negative outcomes as well as experts do? No! Because this is entirely the work of specialists who conduct research and develop formulations based on scientific studies.
If the “barrier issue” is on your mind too, let's dive into it in all its aspects…
What is the Skin Barrier?
The skin barrier is the natural defense mechanism of our skin, protecting us from both internal and external factors. A healthy skin barrier retains moisture, increases resistance against environmental stressors, and supports overall skin health. When this vital protective layer is weakened or damaged, facing various skin problems becomes inevitable.
Structure and Functions of the Skin Barrier
The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, known as the 'stratum corneum.' This layer consists of dead skin cells (corneocytes) and lipids (fats). Corneocytes are cells in the outermost layer of the skin, held together by lipids. This structure traps moisture within the skin, preventing water loss and acting as a strong shield against external factors. The main functions of the skin barrier include:
• Maintaining Moisture Balance: The skin barrier prevents water evaporation, keeping the skin hydrated. This helps the skin stay soft, supple, and smooth.
• Protecting Against External Factors: The skin barrier serves as the first line of defense against environmental pollutants, UV rays, microbes, and chemicals.
• Maintaining pH Balance: The skin barrier maintains the skin’s pH balance, preventing harmful microorganisms from multiplying on the skin.
Causes of Skin Barrier Weakening
• Harsh Cleansers: High pH soaps and chemically-laden cleansers can strip the skin’s natural oils and protective barrier.
• Environmental Factors: Cold weather, wind, extreme heat, and sun exposure all contribute.
• UV Rays: Harmful UV rays from the sun can damage the skin barrier, leading to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
• Wrong Skincare Products: Products containing alcohol, fragrance, acids, and other harsh chemicals can disrupt the skin barrier.
• Wrong Skincare Routine: Using too many products, combining ingredients that shouldn’t be used together, and using exfoliants or retinol too frequently can weaken the skin barrier.
• Stress and Hormones: Chronic stress and hormonal changes can lead to a weakened skin barrier.
• Wrong Applications: Harsh treatments and abrasive physical exfoliants can damage the skin barrier.
Problems That Occur When the Skin Barrier is Damaged
• Dry and Flaky Skin: When the skin barrier is weakened, moisture evaporates quickly, causing the skin to dry out and peel.
• Redness and Sensitivity: A damaged skin barrier leaves the skin vulnerable to external factors, leading to redness, burning, and itching.
• Eczema and Dermatitis: A weak skin barrier can pave the way for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and contact dermatitis.
• Acne and Breakouts: A compromised skin barrier can disrupt the skin’s bacterial balance, increasing acne and breakouts.
• Dark Spots: Damage to the skin barrier can lead to the formation of dark spots.
How Can We Strengthen the Skin Barrier?
• Use Gentle Cleansers: Choose natural and gentle cleansers that match the skin’s natural pH balance, free from soap and sulfates. Rosece's 100% natural products can be used safely for this purpose. Two excellent options await you: the Face Wash Gel for Dry Skin and the Purifying Face Wash Gel for Oily and Pore-prone Skin. You can also experience double cleansing with the Centella-C Cleansing Balm, which gently removes sunscreen and makeup.
• Use Moisturizers and Barrier-Strengthening Products: Products containing prebiotics, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, natural oils, and aloe vera help prevent water loss and strengthen the skin barrier. Rosece’s Prebiotic Moisturizing Cream and 8D Hyaluronic Acid Serum are among the products you can safely use for this purpose.
• Create a Minimalist and Multi-Functional Routine: Instead of using multiple products focused on active ingredients, opt for a few well-formulated, multi-functional products that address your skin concerns. Create a holistic skincare routine with a minimal number of multi-functional products that complement each other for comprehensive care and maximum benefit. For personalized care routines, share your skin characteristics with our experts for support.
• Use Sunscreen: It’s essential to use sunscreen with SPF every day to protect the skin barrier from harmful UV rays. Choosing mineral sunscreens instead of chemical filters is the best choice for both your skin barrier and overall skin health. Rosece’s SPF40 Mineral Sunscreen and SPF30 Tinted Sunscreen, which lightly evens out skin tone, are safe choices among our products.
• Eat Right: Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and sufficient water intake are essential for skin health. These nutrients help strengthen the skin barrier. Alcohol and smoking negatively affect skin health.
• Be Aware of Weather Conditions: Use more intense moisturizers during cold and dry weather to protect the skin barrier.
• Manage Stress: To minimize the adverse effects of stress on the skin barrier, practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and getting enough sleep.