Itching, redness, pimples, sores, excessive wrinkles, dermatitis, tightness… is your skin more sensitive than ever and in full bloom? Before looking for different causes for your problems, consider the main ones: your skin barrier can be damaged. When we talk about the skin barrier, we are talking about the insulating and protective function of the stratum corneum and epidermis. If it is not in its optimal state, it will be much more fragile and sensitive to external factors (pollution, allergens, bacteria…) which can eventually lead to inflammation and other skin problems. So first of all you should pay attention to its status…
And now that you know what the skin barrier is… let’s get to the really important stuff. How is it kept in good condition? Can it be amplified? How is it taken care of? Above all, the key to a good barrier function is to maintain proper hydration of the skin. You can achieve this by not scratching or removing pimples (something that only damages the dermis), by drinking the right amount of water every day (at least 2 liters of water according to experts) and especially by using moisturizing creams. cosmetics and emollients that reduce water loss, insulate or form a protective film to protect the skin and ultimately improve the skin’s barrier function.
Some ingredients to look for in these products then? Be sure to bet on moisturizing creams and emulsions with hyaluronic acid (the main compound of the skin that allows the skin to provide more hydration and volume), creams with amino acids or ceramides (which provide the skin’s permeable barrier) or even ampoules and flash repair treatments that improve the quality of collagen fibres, repair existing damage and treat other structural elements of the skin. If you feel your skin is sensitive, damaged, too dry or irritated, it’s time to strengthen the barrier. Where to start? Here are ten cosmetics we suggest that will help you achieve this. So keep a close eye on them!
Especially indicated for dry skin with a tendency to atopy, this cream protects the skin against daily aggressions (stress, manual and household tasks…), immediately relieves itching and limits their return and accelerates the repair of the skin barrier and forms a protective film to protect it. TOPIALYSE Barrier, from SVR (9.90 euros)
Looking for an express remedy? This night recovery ampoule contains a cocktail of bioactive micropeptides that strengthen the dermo-epidermal connection, improve the quality of collagen fibers and other structural elements of the skin, stimulate their repair and detoxification while you sleep. 8h Night Repairing Concentrate UNIQCURE, by Skeyndor (cpv)
Intended for dry skin, this cream maintains the first line of defense against external aggression in optimal conditions. Enriched with sweet almond oil and vegetable waxes of jojoba, mimosa and sunflower, so your skin feels just as nourished, hydrated and comfortable all day long. Barrier function cream for dry skin, from gh Gema Herrerias (39.90 euros)
This insulating and restorative cream contains the patented Poly-2P complex, which forms a real shield against irritation, friction and chemical attacks on the skin. Apply to the area of skin you want to protect or repair as often as needed. Bariéderm cream, from Uriage (cpv)
With 89% Vichy Volcanic Water and Hyaluronic Acid Serum, this concentrated treatment moisturizes, relieves, replenishes and strengthens the skin barrier to make it stronger against harsh factors our skin is exposed to day after day, such as pollution, stress or fatigue. Vichy Mineral 89 (cpv)
This moisturizer is supercharged with 5-Cera Complex, adenosine, shea butter and algae extract to strengthen the skin barrier and protect against water and moisture loss. Ceramidin™ Cream DR.JART+ ($41.99 at Sephora)
This ceramide-based moisturizer helps relieve dry, sensitive skin by strengthening its natural barrier for deep hydration and intense softness. Sunday Riley ICE Ceramide Moisturizing Cream ($62.99 at Sephora)
This lightweight serum with a silky finish for the face, neck and décolleté is enriched with ceramides that visibly improve the evenness and radiance of the complexion, reduce wrinkles and fine lines and help maintain natural collagen levels for a firmer skin. Ceramide capsules, from ELIZABETH ARDEN (108.99 euros)
This ultra-light moisturizer helps reduce the visible signs of stressed skin, including redness and fatigue. It also immediately soothes the skin and helps repair the skin barrier, making it less susceptible to the effects of everyday stressors. Skin savior, by Kiehls (37 euros)
This cream with a lipid and protein-based formula restores the skin’s natural hydration and forms a protective barrier against moisture loss. Provides comfort, flexibility and relief to sensitive and very dry skin. Nutritic Intense, by La Roche Posay (cpv)
Source: Marie Claire