Tips for Repairing a Damaged Skin Barrier

A close-up of the left side of a middle-aged woman's face. She has three dots of moisturizer under her eye.

If you’re dealing with dry patches, various types of acne, and inflammation, it’s evident that your skin’s barrier has become impaired. There are many skin care treatments to remedy this issue. However, the following tips are incredible ways to repair a damaged skin barrier for amazing results.

Skip Physical Exfoliants

Physical exfoliants are more aggressive than their chemical counterparts. They’re scrubs with large granules that can cause microtears in the skin, strip natural oils, and damage the barrier.

Chemical exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) gently dissolve dead skin cells without causing abrasions. By making this switch, you allow your skin to heal and regenerate more effectively.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen is nonnegotiable when it comes to protecting your skin barrier. Whether it’s a sunny or cloudy day, UV rays are always present. They weaken the skin’s composure and cause premature aging and damage.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF. If you don’t like traditional sunscreen, you’ll find plenty of beauty products that offer a more pleasing result. Foundations, tinted moisturizers, and primers often include SPF. This is a convenient way to feel good, look incredible, and protect your skin.

Read the Ingredients of Makeup and Skin Care

Not all ingredients in skin care and makeup products are beneficial. Many formulas contain harmful pore-clogging skin care ingredients that you need to avoid in your beauty products. Ingredients such as sulfates and isopropyl myristate are more likely to strip the skin of their natural oils and compromise the moisture barrier.

Before buying something new or using one of your existing products, thoroughly read the label. If you catch sight of any questionable ingredients, it might be time to find a replacement product.

Simplify Your Skin Care Routine

Overloading your skin with too many products can disrupt its natural balance and lead to irritation. The powerful ways to reach your beauty goals begins with investing in high-quality skin care and a simple routine. When you select the right ingredients and products, you’ll maximize the results without needing a basketful of skin care.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

A gentle cleanser is the key to forming a strong foundation for your skin. It removes dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. You’ll reestablish the skin’s barrier, making it more balanced and less prone to irritation.

Use One Active Ingredient at a Time

Active skin care ingredients target specific skin concerns and improve the problem over time. These ingredients include vitamin C, niacinamide, BHAs, ceramides, and retinol.

Simplicity ensures that each product doesn’t overwhelm the skin. Choose two of your desired active ingredients. Use one product in the morning and the other at night. This ensures that they work effectively to repair the damaged skin barrier.

Incorporate Vitamin C

When you’re thinking about active ingredients, go for vitamin C. It’s a powerhouse antioxidant that shields against environmental damage and boosts collagen production. Incorporate a vitamin C serum into your morning routine to brighten your complexion and enhance skin texture. Consistent use will produce stronger, more resilient skin.

Lock in Moisture

Hydration is key to revitalizing a damaged skin barrier. After cleansing, apply serums, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, that increase cell turnover and retain the skin’s moisture. Then, apply an oil-free moisturizer to trap the maximum amount of hydration.