How to Repair Your Skin Barrier, According to Dermatologists
26.12.2023 - 15:47
/ glamour.com
, or perhaps it’s the switch to a more intuitive approach to our skincare routines – whatever it is, skin barrier health is trending, with a casual 129.5 million views on the search term on TikTok, and searches for “how to repair the skin barrier” up 130 per cent on Google Trends in the past 30 days.
And long may it continue.“In dermatology, our skin barrier is known as the epidermis,” explains dermatologist .
“It can be disrupted by intrinsic or extrinsic factors, and often a combination of both.
Intrinsic factors include skin barrier diseases that have a genetic component, such as eczema and ichthyosis and high levels of stress and illness.”Meanwhile, extrinsic factors include excessive exposure to harsh weather elements, such as too much sun or wind, or extremes of temperature (think going from a heated room to the biting cold outdoors), is one reason why compromised barriers often show themselves during the winter season).
Others include exposure to potential chemical irritants, such as certain active skincare ingredients, like AHAs and retinoids; and soaps containing SLS or any physical irritants that can scrub the skin.
Not to mention pollution, smoking, poor sleep and allergens.Skin barrier aggressors are everywhere, but the most overwhelmingly common reason for impairment in consultant dermatologist ’s clinic is “the overuse of actives and using too many products all at once”, she says.
“The skin becomes overwhelmed, and, as a result, the barrier becomes compromised.”“If you struggle to keep moisture in and your skin feels dry and tight, you might be suffering from an impaired skin barrier,” says , consultant dermatologist and chief medical officer at .
“It can be ashy or flaky, and can feel irritated (or sting)
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