Lesson 2: Dangers To Skin Barrier
Your skin barrier protects you—but are you protecting it? This week, we explore the hidden culprits behind barrier damage, from genetics and pollution to stress and skincare mistakes. Learn how these factors weaken your skin and what you can do to restore and protect your glow. Ready to build a routine that works with your barrier, not against it? Let’s dive in.
LESSON 2
Stella Shin
4/10/20253 min read
If you were inspired by the previous article about skin barrier, this weeks’ article will take you deeper into the world of skincare. Our skin barrier is the frontline defense against environmental aggressors. However, the shield can be damaged by various factors, leading to increased vulnerability to irritants and pathogens!
What are some common causes of skin barrier damage?
Genetic Factors
The structural proteins are compromised of mutations in genes responsible for skin integrity, such as filaggrin. This can impair the ability of the skin to maintain moisture and its protection against allergens, leading to conditions like atopic dermatitis!
Environmental Exposures
We are surrounded by pollutants everyday, including particulate matter. These pollutants are known to induce inflammatory responses to our skin! They decrease essential skin proteins, leading to barrier dysfunction and facilitating the penetration of allergens that weaken the skin to another level.
Microbial Imbalance
Overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria can weaken the skin barrier. Staphylococcus aureus, which is one type of pathogenic bacteria, is one cause of degradation of the protective ability of skin barrier. this colonization triggers the immune responses that further break down barrier function, triggering conditions like eczema.
Harsh Skincare Practices
Did you know that your daily skincare routines can backfire on you? The overuse of aggressive skincare products and excessive washing you are doing everyday can strip the skin of its natural oils. This disrupts the lipid matrix in the stratum corneum, weakening the barrier and increasing water loss!
After today’s blog post, you will be able to gain access to correct skincare routines just for you!
Immune Dysregulation
Barrier disruption and inflammation of the skin can be triggered by an overactive immune response, particularly involving type 2 inflammation. It can impair protein and lipid production crucial; for barrier integrity.
Psychological Stress
Healthy mind equals healthy body and skin! Stress has been linked to delayed skin barrier recovery. Individuals that have higher positive affect may experience faster barrier restoration! Always remember your psychological healthcare along with physical one!
Physical Factors
External factors directly influence skin barrier. Frequent exposure to water, especially at extreme temperatures, can alter the pH of the skin and increase water loss. Your skin will be more exposed to irritants and pathogens!
All kinds of factor attack your skin barrier. Addressing these factors through proper skincare routines, stress management, and environmental modifications can aid in restoring that glow on your skin!
If you are curious about proper skincare routine for your skin, check out the blog post, “Proper Skincare for Stellar Skin.”
Next week, we will move away from skin barrier and focus on skincare formulation! Stay tuned!
Sources- PMC, Time
