What is a Skin Barrier and Why is it so Important?

When you hear the words “skin barrier” you probably imagine a protective shield hovering over your skin—maybe even a coat of armor. Well, you’re not entirely wrong. “Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin, also called the protective barrier, or if you want to get super technical, the stratum corneum,” says Starr. “It’s made up of dead skin cells, lipids and fats, which essentially act like a shield, keeping the good stuff, like moisture, in and the bad stuff, like skin-damaging pollutants, out.”

To better understand skin barrier function, think of your barrier as a brick wall: the bricks are the skin cells and the mortar is the lipid layer holding the wall, or your cells, together. When the brick wall is strong and structural, moisture and other beneficial elements (think vitamins, proteins and antioxidants) are locked in. If the wall weakens and becomes compromised, it develops cracks, which allows moisture to seep out and skin-damaging pollutants to slip in. When this barrier breakdown happens, your skin is more vulnerable to aging.

That spreadsheet that’s due at 8am is breaking down your barrier. That’s because stress induced from the pressure of life (like your job) can create a snowball effect on your skin. “A surge in stress hormones can disrupt collagen, decrease lipids and increase water loss, all leading to a compromised skin barrier,” says Rocky Graziose, Origins Biotech and Discovery Labs.

The truth is, most of us have experienced damage to our skin barrier at some point. The tell tale signs your skin barrier is compromised: skin feels dry and tight or you’re experiencing redness and irritation. Your skin may even itch or flake, and possibly sting when applying your treatment products. When any or all of the above happens, it’s most likely a sign your skin is telling you its barrier is compromised.

Creamy cleansers are your skin’s best friend. They’re comforting and calming, and are typically void of ingredients that strip the skin of its natural oils. Look for cleansers containing soothing ingredients like mushrooms (our favorite skin-soother) and ceramides (the moisture-boosters). One of our favorites is Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Face Cleanser with Cordyceps and Reishi Mushroom. Also, be sure to put the brakes on exfoliation until your barrier is restored, then consider limiting it to two times a week, tops.

Our Skin Barrier products are formulated to help soothe, visibly reduce redness associated with skin barrier damage, and restore barrier strength.

This ultra-gentle, milky cleanser is formulated with Cordyceps and Reishi Mushrooms, Ginger, Turmeric and Holy Basil, as well as skin-soothing Licorice Extract. It quickly rinses away makeup, dirt, debris and impurities without upsetting skin's naturally protective lipid balance. Even highly sensitive skin stays calm as you cleanse.