Overview
Dryness, itching and increased sensitivity are all possible signs that your skin’s protective barrier isn’t working properly. But what exactly is your skin barrier and why does it affect the overall condition and appearance of your skin? To help answer these questions, we’ll begin by exploring the structure of your skin’s natural barrier—including how it works. This can help prevent water loss and block out external stressors.
We’ll also share some other signs to look for while determining whether your skin’s moisture barrier is impaired - from chronic skin conditions or common skin concerns like dry skin.
Lastly, we’ll explore the ways you can help maintain your skin barrier by following the right skincare practices and gentle, ceramide-infused products developed by dermatologists. Keep reading for CeraVe’s comprehensive guide to understanding your skin barrier
Facts About Skin Barrier
- Your skin’s protective natural barrier is the outermost layer of your skin, formally known as the stratum corneum.
- The skin barrier’s primary function is to retain moisture in your skin and keep harmful elements out.
- The skin barrier has a “brick and mortar” structure, with skin cells being the “brick wall” and lipids forming the “mortar” that holds it all together.
- Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the skin’s lipids that help form the skin’s natural bar
- Flaky, dry, rough skin that is prone to cracks, irritation, and sensitive skin are some signs of a damaged skin barrier
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References
1. Fujii M. “The Pathogenic and Therapeutic Implications of Ceramide Abnormalities in Atopic Dermatitis.” Cells. 2021 Sep 10;10(9):2386. doi: 10.3390/cells10092386. PMID: 34572035; PMCID: PMC8468445.
2. “How To Tell if Your Skin Barrier Is Damaged and What To Do About It.” The Cleveland Clinic, 14 December 2022.
3. Herrero-Fernandez M, Montero-Vilchez T, Diaz-Calvillo P, Romera-Vilchez M, Buendia-Eisman A, Arias-Santiago S. “Impact of Water Exposure and Temperature Changes on Skin Barrier Function.” J Clin Med. 2022 Jan 7;11(2):298. doi: 10.3390/jcm11020298. PMID: 35053992; PMCID: PMC8778033.