7 skincare products that will help you strengthen and repair your skincare barrier

Let’s admit it, we have all fallen down the rabbit hole of skincare, purchasing fancy products, endless routines, and chasing celebrity skincare secrets. However, here’s the thing: amid the chaos of beauty aisles and endless skincare tutorials, there’s a crucial aspect often overlooked—your skin barrier. 

To grasp the concept of the skin barrier, let’s start with the fundamentals of our skin structure. Our skin consists of three primary layers: the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. Among these layers, the epidermis stands as the outermost shield. Now, within these layers lie several sub-layers and within the epidermis, is the skin barrier. It’s your skin’s frontline defender, ensuring that irritation, dryness or any signs of skin distress remain at bay while keeping your skin supple, hydrated, and safeguarded from external threats.

What damages your skin barrier?

Several factors can harm your skin’s natural defense system. For instance, scrubbing your skin too hard and using harsh cleansers and hot water can strip away its protective layer. Environmental factors like harsh weather and pollution can gradually weaken it. In addition to this, using skincare products with fragrances, washing your face or hands too often with strong soaps, and skin problems like eczema or psoriasis can also be extremely tough on it. To keep your skin’s defense strong and healthy, we recommend using lightweight skincare products, shielding your skin from environmental stress, including hydrating ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin and following a dermatologist-recommended skincare routine. 

What are the signs of a damaged skin barrier?

A damaged skin barrier can manifest itself in several ways, and the severity of these signs can vary from person to person. Here are some common signs of a damaged skin barrier: 

Dryness and dehydration: One of the most common signs is dry, dehydrated skin. Your skin may feel tight, rough, and flaky, and it may also appear dull. 

Redness and irritation: If your skin’s protective barrier is weakened, it can make your skin more sensitive. This can lead to redness and swelling, causing discomfort and irritation. Your skin may also get easily irritated by skincare or beauty products. 

Acne and breakouts: A damaged barrier can allow bacteria and irritants to enter your skin more easily, This can lead to an increase in acne and breakouts, even if you haven’t had those issues in the past. The barrier’s weakened state provides a gateway for acne-causing factors to wreak havoc on your skin. 

Increased sensitivity: Your skin may become hyper-sensitive to various stimuli. It may react strongly to temperature changes, sunlight, or even gentle touches. 

Flare-ups of skin conditions: If you have existing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, a damaged skin barrier can cause sudden flare-ups. 

Ahead, you’ll find a curated line-up of seven skincare products that will help you strengthen and restore your skincare barrier. 

d’you In My Defence Moisturiser, ₹3,500

Minimalist Ceramides 0.3% + Madecassoside, ₹589

Juice Beauty Prebiotix Instant Flash Facial, ₹5,500

Conscious Chemist Multi-Peptide Retinol Night Cream, ₹486 

KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief, ₹2,400

Murad Essential-C Overnight Barrier Repair Cream, ₹7,719 

L’Occitane Immortelle Reset Triphase Essence, ₹5,500