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Expert Advice 6/13/2016

What Is the Skin's Moisture Barrier?

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What Is the Skin's Moisture Barrier

Every day, our skin is exposed to irritants—think: environmental pollution, sun exposure—that can tarnish the appearance of our skin and make it look dull, dry and tired. Our best defense? The skin’s moisture barrier. 

What is the skin’s moisture barrier, you ask? If it sounds like a shield for our skin, that’s because it is. “Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin,” says skin specialist, and Skincare.com expert, Mzia Shiman. “It functions to protect and maintain your skin while keeping it hydrated and moisturized.” A healthy barrier can help keep moisture in and bad bacteria—and those aforementioned contaminants—out. Think of it as personal security detail for your skin, there to help protect and shield your body’s largest organ.

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Naturally, there’s a ton of industry chatter on the importance of keeping the skin barrier less permeable to the outside world. Shiman, for one, doesn’t hesitate to note that the hype is, in fact, very real. “If your skin barrier gets damaged, it may become hard for your skin to heal itself from breakouts, dryness, and even wrinkles.” 

HOW TO STRENGHTEN YOUR SKIN’S BARRIER

If you suspect that your skin barrier has been compromised—or you simply want to keep it from getting to that point—read on. In order to maintain strong barrier function, Shiman suggests taking preventative measures. “Shield your skin from pollution, sun exposure, and other possible forms of damage by using the right products,” she says. A good way to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is by applying broad-spectrum SPF to your skin every day—even if it looks like it’s a cloudy day. Keeping your skin hydrated is also vital; a product Shiman recommends is Decléor Hydra Floral 24-Hr Hydration-Activating Light Cream. “Not only is it a wonderfully soothing and hydrating moisturizer, the formula—with moringa oleifera micro-proteins—helps protect your skin.” Treating your skin barrier with care may bring you closer towards achieving the smoother, hydrated complexion you’ve always wanted. Why not give it a try?

Jessica Khorsandi
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jessica is a self-professed skin care junkie with a passion for experimenting with the latest beauty products and trends. As an employee of L’Oréal, she helps create engaging content for Skincare.com’s audience.

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