Accomplish your skin goals and mark them as ‘CHECKED’ on your list of achievements for this year! In 2024, one of the most important goals in our lives should be to achieve glowing skin. So, to attain this, it is necessary to prioritise your skin barrier first before anything else or it is going to be a LONG and difficult journey dealing with your skin problems like breakouts, hyperpigmentation and premature ageing!
Understanding Your Skin Barrier
Your skin is the biggest organ of the body and it consists of three layers- the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. Out of these layers, the skin barrier is located in the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. The epidermis plays an important role in maintaining skin health. It acts as a protective barrier between the body and external factors. It prevents water loss and retains hydration and produces melanin, which is a skin pigment in our body that naturally gives colouring to our hair, eyes and skin that protects against UV rays.
So, now you know why it is important to take care of your skin barrier!
What Can You Do to Strengthen and Maintain a Healthy Barrier
Take up these steps to maintain a healthy skin barrier:
Go for gentle cleansers: Choose a mild cleanser that does not strip your skin’s natural oil.
Do not over-exfoliate: Start slow and low with exfoliation. Exfoliate only 1-2 times a week. If your skin barrier is damaged, avoid exfoliating acids for a while and let it heal first.
Opt for gentle exfoliators like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).
Hydrate inside out: Drink plenty of water to maintain skin hydration from within.
Layer lots of hydrating toner as it will reduce the risk of skin barrier damage.
Moisturise regularly: Always apply moisturiser after bathing or washing your face to lock in moisture and avoid water loss.
Always apply sunscreen: Whether you are indoors or outdoors, always apply sunscreen. Go for at least SPF 30 daily and remember to reapply every 2-3 hours.
Super Star Ingredients to Strengthen Skin Barrier
There are several ingredients that help strengthen and repair the skin barrier. Let’s look at some of it:
Ceramide: Ceramides are lipids that play a crucial role in maintaining overall skin health. It is naturally found in the skin however you can apply it topically to lock in moisture and repair skin. Ceramide is a common skincare ingredient found in toners, serums, moisturisers and other skin-care products.
Panthenol: Panthenol helps in absorbing moisture and preventing water loss from the skin. It has calming, soothing properties that help reduce skin inflammation. It also has antioxidant properties that protect against free radical damages and help prevent premature ageing.
Peptides: Peptides help boost collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve wound healing. Peptides also have anti-inflammatory properties which soothe irritation and redness. Product example : Cosrx Advanced Snail Peptide eye cream
Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is an excellent ingredient for locking in moisture. It boosts skin hydration and helps in firming the skin while giving a youthful appearance.
Niacinamide: Niacinamide is a super ingredient for brightening skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, regulating oil production, minimising the appearance of pores, and protecting against environmental damages.
Centella Asiatica: Centella Asiatica has anti-inflammatory properties making it great for calming and soothing the skin. It is an amazing ingredient if you have skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Mugwort: Mugwort is another soothing ingredient that is commonly used in Korean skincare. It helps in controlling acne and skin repair making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
In conclusion, your skincare goal for 2024 should be to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Once your skin barrier is healthy, you can level up your game and set your particular skincare goals like reducing hyperpigmentation, dealing with acne breakouts, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, etc.
