As the largest organ of the body, our skin serves as the defensive armour that keeps the bad guys—pollutants, debris, environmental aggressors—out while locking in moisture. It comes as little surprise, then, that maintaining the health of the skin barrier should be at the top of our skincare priorities, especially considering that a compromised barrier can open the door to dryness, flaking and other concerns. Ahead, noted dermatologist Dr Jaishree Sharad shares her expert advice on how do this right.
What is skin barrier health?
As the term barrier health gets bandied about with increasing frequency in the skincare world, Dr Sharad believes that it is essential to understand the importance of the skin barrier and recognise the signs of a compromised one. “Skin barrier health refers to the integrity and functionality of the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum,” she explains. “The skin barrier acts as a protective shield against external factors such as pathogens, allergens, irritants and excessive moisture loss. It helps maintain hydration, regulate temperature and prevent the entry of harmful substances.”
A healthy skin barrier is characterised by smooth, supple and well-hydrated skin with a lipid layer that prevents water loss and maintains moisture levels in the skin. The presence of natural moisturising factors and beneficial bacteria also contribute to its overall health. “When the skin barrier is compromised, it may result in dryness, flakiness, redness, itching, increased sensitivity and a higher risk of infection,” Dr Sharad cautions.
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What are the factors that harm skin barrier health?
If you are looking to maintain a healthy skin barrier, Dr Sharad recommends staying vigilant against excessive cleansing, harsh or irritating skincare products, exposure to extreme temperatures and dry air.
How to maintain skin barrier health
Treating a compromised skin barrier involves a combination of protective measures and gentle skincare practices. Ahead are some recommended approaches for skin barrier repair.
1. Gentle cleansing
Use a mild, soap-free skin cleanser formulated for sensitive or compromised skin. Avoid hot water and harsh scrubbing, as these can further strip the skin of natural oils. Also, it is important to pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it vigorously.
2. Moisturise regularly
Apply a moisturiser suitable for your skin type and specifically formulated to support the skin barrier. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or natural moisturising factors (NMFs) that help absorb and retain moisture in the skin. For best results, apply moisturiser immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration.
Tira Recommends: The Face Shop Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Cream
3. Avoid irritants
Minimise the use of skincare products containing harsh or irritating ingredients such as fragrances, alcohol, sulphates or certain preservatives. These can further damage the skin barrier and worsen the condition. Opt for products labelled as gentle, hypoallergenic, or made for sensitive skin.
4. Protect your skin from environmental factors
For maintaining barrier health, it is essential to shield your skin from harsh weather conditions, extreme temperatures and excessive sun exposure. Use sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and a high SPF to prevent UV damage which can compromise the skin barrier.
Tira recommends: Minimalist SPF 50 PA ++++ Sunscreen With Multi-Vitamin For Reducing Photoaging & No White Cast
5. Avoid excessive exfoliation
Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week and choose gentle exfoliants that do not cause excessive friction. Excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin barrier and cause irritation. Use hydrating face masks formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera or ceramides to provide an extra boost of hydration and nourishment to the skin.
Tira Recommends: Farmacy Beauty Honey Potion Plus Ceramide Hydration Mask
Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Daily Brightening & Repair Cream
6. Use topicals made for barrier repair
Consider using skincare products targeting barrier repair with ingredients such as ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids or niacinamide to restore and strengthen the skin barrier.
Tira Recommends: ETUDE HOUSE Soon Jung Hydro Barrier Cream
L'Oréal Paris Hydra Fresh Anti-Ox Grape Seed Hydrating Barrier Strengthening Cream
Support overall skin health
Adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep. These factors can positively influence the health and resilience of your skin.
Meet the expert:
Dr Jaishree Sharad is a distinguished and respectable name in the field of cosmetic dermatology. She has been practising cosmetic dermatology for over 22 years and has, with her extensive work, become one of the most renowned names in the field.
