Sound, language, gender, knowledge: All barriers that are ok to break. Your skin barrier? Not ok to break. The skin barrier (a.k.a. the moisture barrier), is basically our body’s built-in armor, protecting us from outside aggressors like free radicals, toxins & infections, while also preventing moisture loss to keep our skin hydrated and healthy. Unfortunately, it's also delicate, and only the slightest overindulgence can cause damage.
The biggest and easiest ways to damage your skin barrier is by over-exfoliating (either too often or by using products too strong for your skin type) or using very irritating products, but environmental factors like excessive water exposure, extreme weather (like freezing temperatures or excessive wind), and overexposure to the sun (all hail SPF!) can also take their toll. You'll start to notice increased sensitivity and more reactive skin that can be dry, red, itchy and flaky. One of the most common signs of a damaged barrier is a stinging sensation when you apply even the most gentle of products. You might also notice more breakouts than usual and you can even develop a skin infection.
Healing a damaged skin barrier can take time, so being proactive by nourishing and fortifying your skin with products formulated to support and protect it is your best barrier defense. We asked Lindsay H., Dermstore’s resident esthetician, to help us put together the ultimate barrier strengthening routine.
1. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin - Face Cleanser (5 oz.)
“First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser is a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser catered to sensitive skin. Known for its mild formulation, the cleanser aims to remove impurities without causing irritation and maintains the skin's natural barrier,” says Lindsay. But don’t let this ultra gentle formula fool you — it removes nearly every trace of makeup & dirt while still managing to be soothing & nourishing.
2. SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator (1 fl. oz.)
Formulated with multiple different types of hydrators, this might be just about the most skin-quenching product we’ve ever used. According to Lindsay, “SkinMedica's HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator contains five different forms of hyaluronic acid (HA), a hydrating compound naturally present in the skin. By enhancing the skin's hydration levels, it supports the restoration of the skin barrier. Don’t be fooled by the name “acid” there is nothing exfoliating about hyaluronic acid. This product aims to enhance the skin's moisture content without causing irritation, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin types.”
3. Revision Skincare D.E.J Eye Cream (0.5 fl. oz.)
“Revision Skincare D·E·J Eye Cream’s formulation helps maintain optimal moisture levels around the eyes, contributing to barrier repair by preventing dryness and supporting the skin's natural protective function. Its hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested features make it suitable for the delicate eye area,” says Lindsay. We love it because not only does it intensely hydrate and visibly reduce the look of sagging, wrinkles, redness and hooding around the eye area, but it’s also formulated with prebiotic technology that helps support the skin’s microbiome (one of the key components of the skin barrier).
4. U Beauty The Barrier Bioactive Treatment 50ml
This super concentrated overnight treatment is a godsend for our skin’s most parched nights. Serving as the final step in our nightly routine, it not only soothes dryness but also visibly restores skin and replenishes our moisture barrier from within, so our skin wakes up looking and feeling fortified. “U Beauty's The Barrier Bioactive Treatment contains a blend of bioactive ingredients, antioxidants, and peptides that aim to promote skin health. This overnight treatment focuses on deeply hydrating the skin and strengthening the skin barrier, which can often be compromised in sensitive skin types,” notes Lindsay.
5. IMAGE Skincare ORMEDIC Sheer Pink Lip Enhancement Complex (0.25 oz.)
According to Lindsay, “IMAGE Skincare ORMEDIC Lip Enhancement Complex has a blend of organic ingredients and peptides to nourish and enhance the natural lip color. The hydrating properties help maintain moisture, preventing dryness and chapping, which is essential for supporting the skin barrier on the lips and the surrounding skin.” And we whole-heartedly agree. We were forever on the millions-of-lip-balms train until this entered our world. It's ultra-hydrating, polypeptide formula instantly quenches our (now formerly) constantly chapped lips, while also making them look naturally fuller.
Teresa Greenfeld has worked in fashion and beauty for over 15 years as a writer, editor and content strategist. She has been privileged to work at Carbon38 as a Senior Editor, at OliviaPalermo.com as the Fashion and Beauty Director, and has amassed a resume that includes Vogue, Allure and Elle magazines. Her passions include back-to-back sheet masks, reading peer-reviewed papers on skin care, and obsessive sunscreen application. Though born in Manhattan, she currently lives in LA, and will always consider herself a New Yorker at heart.
