What is the skin barrier?
The skin is made up of many layers, and each layer has an important role to play.
The outermost layer, called the stratum corneum, is made up of tough skin cells called corneocytes, held together like a brick wall by lipids.
This is the skin barrier.
Skin barrier function
Within the keratinocytes are keratin and natural moisturizers, while the lipid layer contains cholesterol, fatty acids and ceramides.
The stratum corneum is about 0.02 mm thick, about the same thickness as plastic wrap. It is a very thin membrane.
However, without this membrane, a variety of harmful substances and bacteria could enter the skin and cause adverse physical effects.
The skin barrier also prevents moisture from escaping from the body. Without this barrier, moisture would escape and evaporate, leaving us dehydrated.
In other words, it can be said that our skin barrier allows us to live healthy lives and keep our bodies functioning normally. Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is the key not only to beautiful skin, but to good health as well.
Damage inflicted
- Too high humidity
- Dry environment
- Allergens
- Stimulants
- Contaminants
- Ultraviolet rays
- Alkaline detergents and soaps
- Excessive exfoliation and washing
- steroid
- stress
- Genetic factors that predispose to skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis
What happens when the skin barrier weakens?
When your skin barrier isn't functioning properly, you're more susceptible to the following skin conditions:
How to protect and repair the skin barrier
1. Simplify your skincare routine
Do you use many different products every day for your skin care routine?
In fact, excessive skin care or over-treatment can weaken the skin's barrier function . Try to keep your skin care routine simple and focus on compensating for what is lacking.
2. Be careful with scrubs and exfoliants
If you do exfoliate, pay attention to your skin's reaction. Scrubs, peels, and pore masks can temporarily damage the barrier.
3. Watch your pH level
The pH value of skin is 4.7 , which is known as a weak acidity. However, the pH value of skin care products varies from 3.7 to 8.2.
Using products with a pH level close to that of your skin can help prevent skin problems.
4. Use plant oils to replenish the skin barrier
Research has shown that certain botanical oils can repair the skin barrier and prevent dehydration. Some great oils to include in your skin care routine are jojoba oil , almond oil, argan oil, sunflower oil, and soybean oil, all of which are great for helping the skin retain moisture.
In addition to lotions and creams that contain these oils, you can also apply 100% oil directly to your skin. Gently massage the oil into your skin.
5. Use skin care products that contain ceramides
Ceramide is a waxy lipid found in abundance in the stratum corneum and is an essential component for maintaining the skin's barrier function.
There are also reports showing that skin care products containing synthetic ceramides may improve dryness, itchiness, and flaky skin caused by a weakened barrier function.
In addition, since acne-prone skin often has a weakened barrier function, moisturizers containing ceramide are said to be effective against acne as well.
6. Try moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, petrolatum, or glycerin.
Moisture is essential for the skin barrier, so applying a moisturizer to replenish the skin's moisture will strengthen the skin's barrier function.
We recommend moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid , petrolatum, or glycerin, as these ingredients leave a thin film on the skin that is said to prevent moisture loss.
However, not all skin care products are suitable for everyone.
Find out which products are right for you to keep your skin healthy, protected and well-hydrated.
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"CONCIO" - A company that thoroughly researches the risks of cosmetic ingredients
CONCIO is the first additive-free skin care product in Japan to receive EWG certification, meeting new standards.
Focusing on the risk of skin irritation and allergies caused by cosmetic ingredients, we strictly adhere to our own safety standards and do not use 2,500 ingredients.
We deliver world-class peace of mind to sensitive skin in Japan.
*This does not guarantee that skin irritation or allergies will not occur in all people.
