What is the skin barrier?
The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it plays a crucial role in protecting our internal organs from the outside world.
The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin and is responsible for providing a protective barrier against external factors like pollution, UV radiation, and harmful microorganisms.
The skin barrier contains dead skin cells that are built like a brick wall and are held together by a matrix of lipids, including ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. This matrix acts as a waterproof sealant that prevents moisture from escaping the skin and keeps external irritants from entering.
Why is the skin barrier important?
The importance of the skin barrier cannot be overstated. When the skin barrier is compromised, it can lead to a range of skin conditions like dryness, irritation, redness, and even infection. This is because when the skin barrier is damaged, moisture can escape from the skin, causing it to become dehydrated and more susceptible to external irritants.
There are several factors that can damage the skin barrier, including harsh soaps and cleansers, hot water, and environmental factors like pollution and UV radiation. Genetics and certain medical conditions can also affect the skin barrier's function, making some individuals more susceptible to skin problems.
How can you support your skin barrier?
To maintain a healthy skin barrier, it's important to use gentle, non-irritating skincare products, avoid over-exfoliating, and protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation. It's also important to stay hydrated and to nourish the skin from the inside out by eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Taking steps to protect and strengthen the skin barrier can help prevent a range of skin conditions and keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. Our Universal Body Oil contains key ingredients to help strengthen and protect your skin barrier. Discover our ingredients here.
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