The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it protects the rest of the organs in our body. When the skin barrier needs repair, it means damage has happened, which can also affect our health. The skin is made of three layers, the epidermis (thin outer layer), the dermis (thick missile layer), and the subcutaneous (fatty layer). The first contact is the epidermis, and it acts as protection for the body and the first line of defense. The epidermis is the brick and mortar structure of the skin that manufactures/secretes lipids that lock in moisture in the body. The upper layer is also known as the stratum corneum and is made up of cells that protect the other parts of the body.
The skin barrier is responsible for how plump, smooth and soft the skin is when touched. The skin barrier protects us from all environmental harm. The body can retain and lock moisture because of the presence of the skin barrier. It protects your body from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which cause cancer and other skin conditions. Dehydration, pollution, and infections have no direct contact with the skin due to the epidermis, which serves as a skin barrier. The body becomes itchy when the skin barrier is damaged, leading to skin diseases and conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
The following factors are responsible for a damaged skin barrier.
It is safe to note that when the skin barrier is damaged, it creates very tiny cracks in the skin that are only visible under a microscope. When these cracks exist, it is easy for irritants to gain access into the body and cause a lot of damage to the other layers of the skin. The common symptoms or signs of a damaged skin barrier are
Products you apply to your skin will begin to sting, and due to all the discomfort, you will have a pronounced appearance of fine lines. A damaged skin barrier also causes the skin to become overly sensitive. Now we have understood the major causes and symptoms of a damaged skin barrier, and the following steps will help you repair it quickly.
Shea Butter: Ideal Moisturizer for Repairing and Nourishing Skin Barrier
Shea butter is the perfect moisturizer for repairing a damaged skin barrier, and it is an emollient and helps the skin retain moisture. Shea butter contains antioxidant that reduces the redness, itchiness, and inflammation on a damaged skin barrier. It is best to moisturize the skin while it is still damp. Use shea butter as a moisturizer in your morning and nighttime skincare routine. Shea butter contains vitamin E, which is ideal for skin barrier repair, and it targets free radicals on the skin and improves elasticity. Shea butter has a high concentration of fatty acids and vitamins, which are essential for keeping irritants away from the skin and locking in moisture.
Eat for Healthy Skin: Repair Barrier with Nutrient-Rich Diet
It is no doubt that we are what we eat, and the way we handle our insides represents what happens on the outside. When you switch up your meals, the skin barrier damage can be repaired. You will need to eat more fatty food and also a diet rich in fruits and vitamin E. You can eat walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds, soy, and avocados to boost your skin’s health. Green tea also helps repair a damaged skin barrier, and it contains antioxidants that protect the skin from the harm of UV rays.
Protect Skin: Short, Lukewarm Showers, Moisturize Damp Skin
Taking long and hot showers can damage the keratin cell of the body, which is found in the epidermis. It dries the skin and irritates it, which leads to skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. If you have a damaged skin barrier, you might have to avoid taking long showers and switching from hot baths to cold or lukewarm. Your body gets excessively dry after you take a hot shower. Also, remember to moisturize your skin while it is still damp.
Hydrate for Healthy Skin: Boost Elasticity with Adequate Water
Water helps to keep the body hydrated, and it also helps improve the elasticity of the skin. By drinking enough water and staying hydrated, not only do you keep your skin barrier in check, but you also keep your skin refreshed.
Restore Skin Barrier: Simplify Routine, Choose Antioxidant-Rich Products
When you begin to notice the symptoms of a damaged skin barrier, the first thing to reduce the number of products you use on your skin, use skincare products that have antioxidants and are rich in vitamin c (browse through our products). Reach out for products for people with sensitive skin.
Having a damaged skin barrier does not mean your skin is permanently damaged. Give your skin time to heal, and also be patient with your journey.