If your skin often feels tight, flaky or easily irritated, the cause may be simpler than you think. Often it is not about adding more products, but about looking after your skin barrier.
What is the skin barrier?
The barrier is the outermost layer of your skin. Think of it as a brick wall: skin cells are the bricks, and natural fats such as ceramides are the mortar. Its job is to keep water in and everyday irritants out.
What wears it down?
- Very hot showers and harsh cleansers
- Over-exfoliating, or using too many active products at once
- Long hours in air-conditioning
- Skipping moisturiser because the weather is humid
How to look after it
Keep your routine short and gentle. Cleanse with lukewarm water, apply a hydrating serum to damp skin and finish with a moisturiser that contains ceramides. Barrier Repair Cream is our richer option for face and neck, while Radiance Daily Lotion is light enough for daytime and for the body.
Humid weather still needs moisturiser
Humidity makes skin feel less dry, but air-conditioning pulls moisture back out. A light layer morning and night is usually enough.
The takeaway
A comfortable barrier makes every other product easier to tolerate. Be gentle, moisturise daily and give new products time.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If irritation persists, speak to a pharmacist or dermatologist.
