Skin is considered as one of the most important organs in the body. It is composed of a vast, complex network of cells, proteins, ceramides, and lipids, not to mention the most vital component of all, which is  the skin barrier. 

You might have already heard about the skin barrier which is said to be keeping your skin looking good and healthy. When you keep your skin nourished and hydrated, it enables the skin barrier to do its job well to keep you looking fresh, radiant, and glowing.

If you want to learn more about the skin barrier – what it is made of, how it works, and what you can do to keep it healthy and strong, then you better read this quick guide. 

 

What is the skin barrier?

In order to understand what the skin barrier does, you need to know how the skin is structured. As skin experts would say, the skin is composed of three individual layers – the topmost layer (epidermis), the middle layer (dermis), and the bottom layer (hypodermis), each with several sublayers that perform unique and specialized functions. 

The outermost part of the epidermis is what pertains to the skin barrier. Many say that the skin’s structure is similar to a brick wall, where the skin cells are the bricks and everything else including the skin barrier is the mortar that binds it all together. The said mortar contains the essential nutrients and together, these compounds are referred to as skin’s “natural moisturizing factor,” because they help keep the deeper layers of skin hydrated and nourished.

 

What does the skin barrier do?

The skin barrier has several functions that contribute to one’s overall health. According to various researchers, the skin barrier has three essential roles, which include protecting your body from external stressors like pollution and UV radiation, retaining water to keep your body and skin hydrated, and transporting vital nutrients to your skin. These functions help balance the body’s various systems. 

Moreover, the skin barrier also helps determine how healthy and even your skin looks. If it’s working properly, your skin barrier will retain water to keep your skin hydrated, smooth, and elastic and make the skin less prone to sensitivity and irritation.

On the other hand, if the skin barrier is not functioning properly as it should, the skin will be prone to damage and dehydration, which result in a dull, dry appearance. In some instances, it can also cause physical changes in the skin such as discoloration, laxity, and premature wrinkles. 

 

What causes skin barrier dysfunction?

According to skincare experts, the most significant factors that can impair skin barrier function are UV radiation, smoking, and chronic exposure to pollution. Meanwhile, physical damage that incurs from over-exfoliating as well as lifestyle factors like stress levels and sleep duration can also affect your skin barrier’s health. 

 

How to keep your skin barrier healthy?

Now that you know what the skin barrier is and how it works, the next thing that you need to understand is how you can keep it healthy and strong. Read on to learn the simple ways you can help your skin retain its good health.

 

Cleanse to remove impurities

The basic step to keep your skin barrier healthy is through cleansing. Regularly and properly washing your face helps remove the dirt, oil, and pollutants that accumulate on your skin throughout the day and helps prevent them from damaging your skin barrier.

 

Reach for a nourishing face lotion

Dehydrated skin can’t perform its essential functions properly, which can result in the formation of various skin concerns. It is important to keep your skin barrier well-hydrated to achieve that smooth, healthy-looking skin.

Applying face lotion can help moisturize your skin and defend it against damaging environmental stressors while promoting a more energized, healthy-looking appearance. Skin Care for Hope’s Face and Body lotion is specially formulated with aloe vera, calendula, sunflower and chamomile that hydrates your skin keeping it soft and healthy. It is also paraben-free which makes it safe to use.

The secret to keeping the skin healthy and plump is to moisturize it daily. You can apply the face and body lotion directly after washing. Skin Care for Hope Face and Body Lotion hydrates and replenishes your skin without blocking pores. 

 

Protect your skin with SPF

Too much exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet light can increase the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

Skin Care for Hope Mild Sunscreen provides non-irritating protection from UV rays for the face and body. It contains titanium dioxide for UVA and UVB protection and is paraben-free.

 

Skin Care for Hope is a local skincare brand that offers mild, safe, and moisturizing skincare products that are dermatologically approved and specially formulated for sensitive skin, bringing quality of life through hope and healing.

It is committed to providing safe and gentle skin care products that are paraben-free with moisturizing and calming ingredients; Educating and promoting good skin care and supportive care for those with sensitive skin; Bringing together a compassionate and collaborative skincare community that puts God’s light and hope at the center of it all.

For more information on skincare tips, advice, as well as gentle and moisturizing skincare products for your self-care journey, follow @SkinCareforHope on Facebook or call 0917-3174682.