DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE YOUR SKIN IS CONSTANTLY DRY, IRRITATED, OR JUST NOT LOOKING ITS BEST?

London Dermatology | 25 January 2025

Do you ever feel like your skin is constantly dry, irritated, or just not looking its best? You might be dealing with a damaged skin barrier.

Think of your skin barrier as a brick wall that protects your inner layers from external aggressors like pollution, bacteria, and harsh weather. When intact, it keeps your skin hydrated, plump, and healthy. However, if the “bricks” in this wall are weakened, moisture escapes, irritants get in, and problems like dryness, redness, and even breakouts can arise. It’s made up of lipids (fats) that help maintain your skin’s natural moisture and pH balance.

A healthy skin barrier is essential for:

Hydration

It locks in moisture, preventing dryness and dehydration.

Protection

It guards against pollution, bacteria, and other irritants.

Glow

It gives your skin a smooth, supple, and radiant appearance.

Some common culprits of skin barrier damage include: 

Over-cleansing

Harsh cleansers strip away natural oils, leaving your skin vulnerable.

Over-exfoliating

Scrubbing too often or using harsh exfoliants can damage the skin’s surface.

Environmental factors

Pollution, sun exposure, and extreme weather can all weaken your barrier.

Certain skincare products

Some products with harsh ingredients or fragrances can irritate and disrupt the barrier. 

Underlying Conditions

Skin conditions like eczema and rosacea can inherently weaken the barrier.