A couple blogs back, we discussed the importance of protecting your skin’s barrier, but what are some steps we can take to help routinely care for the skin’s barrier so our skin feels clarified, refreshed and hydrated?

Summary of the Skin Barrier

Our skin is the largest organ on our body, and it’s made up of several different layers which perform very important functions in order to protect our body from environmental stressors. The outermost layer is called the stratum corneum, which is made up of tough skin cells called corneocytes. The stratum corneum is often referred to as a brick wall and it also happens to be your skin barrier.

Without this “brick wall”, environmental toxins would penetrate our skin, allowing adverse effects to happen inside our body. Additionally, without the skin barrier, the water that is stored within our body would seep and escape, leaving us vulnerable to dehydration. All in all, the skin barrier is essential for our overall health and needs to be maintained.

A Damaged Skin Barrier

If your skin barrier hasn’t been damaged, your skin should feel soft, hydrated, and plump; but if it is, you may be noticing or experiencing dull, dry, inflamed skin appearing.

Some of the telltale signs of a damaged skin barrier include redness, rosacea, tightness and irritation around the face, sensitive or inflamed areas, and acne. 

How do I care for my skin barrier?

Overusing various products can be the causative agent of a weakened skin barrier. Simplifying your routine to 3-4 products can give your skin barrier a chance to relax and repair itself.

Hydrating the Skin Barrier

Moisturizing is something we firmly believe in! A damaged skin barrier requires moisture so keeping your skin hydrated continuously will help speed up the rate at which your skin barrier repairs itself. Reach for creams, lotions, and serums that contain moisture-binding ingredients like Glycerin or Hyaluronic Acid.

Urban Calm Soft Essence with Fermented Seaweed + 5% Panthenol

Our Urban Calm Soft Essence is formulated with Fermented Seaweed, 5% Panthenol, and Glycerin. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and can help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while locking in moisture to restore the skin barrier for a smooth complexion. 

Using More Gentle Cleansers

Over-exfoliating or using products that contain harsh chemicals plays a hand in damaging the skin barrier, leaving your skin feeling tight, itchy, and inflamed. Opting for more gentle cleansers and products with calming ingredients will give your skin the time it greatly needs in order to heal up

.

Urban Calm Gel Cleanser with Fermented Pear + LHA

For example, the Urban Calm Gel Cleanser with Fermented Pear and LHA is a super gentle cleanser that purifies the skin from dirt and impurities, leaving the skin feeling refreshed without stripping it of any hydration. It’s formulated with Fermented Pear which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants to help improve the overall appearance of the skin and prevent acne.

Load up on Sunscreen

We know basking in the sun is one of the best feelings in the world. But too much sun exposure can lead to a damaged skin barrier. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can protect your skin barrier from being damaged by UVA and UVB rays. Opting for a sunscreen that also has antioxidants for anti-aging benefits can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, allowing you to obtain a more youthful appearance. 

Protecting and caring for your skin barrier is super important to keep it healthy and smooth for longer. Keeping it clean and happy will give you a boost of confidence and allow you to start your day feeling refreshed and empowered.