The skin barrier, also known as the stratum corneum, is a crucial component of the skin that plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. It serves as the body’s first line of defence against the external environment and helps to regulate various physiological processes. Here’s an overview of the importance of the skin barrier:
- Protection from External Factors: The skin barrier acts as a physical and chemical barrier that protects the body from environmental pollutants, UV radiation, and other potentially damaging factors. I
- Prevention of Water Loss: The skin barrier helps to prevent excessive water loss from the body, which is essential for maintaining proper hydration.
- Regulation of Temperature: The skin barrier also contributes to the regulation of body temperature.
- Sensory Perception: The skin barrier contains a network of sensory receptors that allow us to perceive sensations such as touch, pressure, temperature, and pain.
- Barrier Function of the Immune System: The skin barrier is closely connected to the immune system. It helps prevent the invasion of pathogens, allergens, and irritants, thereby reducing the risk of skin infections and allergic reactions.
- Maintaining Skin Health and Appearance: A healthy skin barrier is essential for maintaining the overall health and appearance of the skin. When the barrier is compromised, it can lead to various skin issues such as dryness, flakiness, redness, irritation, and a higher susceptibility to skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- Supporting Wound Healing: The skin barrier plays a role in wound healing by protecting the underlying tissues and promoting proper tissue repair. It helps to prevent infections and maintain the appropriate environment for healing.
- Regulation of Absorption: The skin barrier controls the absorption of substances into the body.
Overall, a well-functioning skin barrier is crucial for maintaining the health, integrity, and functionality of the skin. To support the health of your skin barrier, it’s important to practice good skincare habits, such as using gentle cleansers, moisturizing regularly, avoiding harsh chemicals, and protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure.
Ingredients
To promote a strong and effective skin barrier, consider incorporating the following ingredients into your skincare routine:
- Ceramides: These are essential lipids that help to form the skin barrier. They maintain moisture, protect against environmental stressors, and support overall skin health.
- Fatty Acids: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier. They help retain moisture and prevent water loss, keeping the skin hydrated and supple.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Niacinamide helps to improve the skin’s barrier function by increasing the production of ceramides and improving overall hydration. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump.
- Peptides: Peptides can help stimulate collagen production, which supports the overall health and strength of the skin.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like Vitamin C and Vitamin E help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors, which can weaken the skin barrier.
- Probiotics: Probiotics can help balance the skin’s microbiome, promoting a healthy barrier and reducing inflammation.
Remember that everyone’s skin is different, so it’s essential to pay attention to how your skin responds to different ingredients. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, proper hydration, and sun protection, also plays a significant role in supporting your skin’s barrier function. Consulting a skincare professional at Skin and Bodyworks can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin’s unique needs.
Top Moisturisers for impaired barrier :
Ultraceuticals are what we call biomimetic moisturizers
Biomimetic moisturizers are skincare products designed to mimic the natural moisture retention and protective mechanisms of the skin. The term “biomimetic” comes from “bio” (meaning life) and “mimetic” (meaning to imitate). These moisturizers aim to replicate the structure and function of the skin’s barrier to provide optimal hydration and protection.
Some common features of biomimetic moisturizers include:
- Ceramides: Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids in the skin that help maintain its moisture and barrier function.
- Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid and oleic acid, are present in biomimetic moisturizers to support the skin’s lipid barrier.
- Cholesterol: Cholesterol is another lipid that plays a role in maintaining the skin’s barrier function.
- Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs): NMFs are substances naturally found in the skin that help retain water. Biomimetic moisturizers include NMFs like amino acids, urea, and hyaluronic acid to enhance hydration.
- Barrier Repair Ingredients: These include peptides and antioxidants that aid in repairing the skin’s barrier and protecting it from environmental damage.
By using biomimetic moisturizers, individuals aim to provide their skin with the essential components it needs to stay hydrated, resilient, and healthy.
Our Top Moisturisers are
Ultraceuticals Ultra Moisturiser cream
Ultraceuticals Ultra hydrating lotion
Ultraceuticals Ultra Rich Moisturiser cream
Ultraceuticals Ultra Calming moisturiser
Top treatment for impaired barrier
External factors like sun damage, pollution and unhealthy lifestyle habits accelerate skin aging, causing cellular damage and reducing the skin’s ability to repair itself. The BYONIK® treatment helps counteract this process.
BYONIK® pulse-triggered laser and its complementary products were created based on extensive research on optimal wavelengths and power outputs.
As the first rejuvenation system targeting cell processes, BYONIK® is effective for various skin concerns and suitable for all skin types. The non-invasive, non-ablative treatment adapts its frequency to the user’s pulse, delivering energy to all skin layers.
The BYONIK® method enhances skin elasticity, hydration, and volume by stimulating cellular processes and delivering hyaluronic acid gels with antioxidants. Visible effects often appear after the first treatment. The pulse-triggered laser synchronizes with the user’s heartbeat, allowing antioxidants to enter skin cells and red and near-infrared light to penetrate all skin layers.
BYONIK® treatments are compatible with all skin types and various other treatments, including surgery, injectables, and skin peels, it can be administered year-round, even during pregnancy or sun exposure. This treatment helps maintain skins integrity and speed up recovery.