All you need to know about skin barrier

Did you know that skin is one of the largest organs of the body which constitutes nearly 15% of the body weight? Yes, the skin is one of the most important organs of the body. One of the important components of the skin is known as the “Skin Barrier.” Let us discuss more the elements of the skin barrier and its functioning.

What is skin composed of?

Skin is composed of a complex and huge network of elements that forms the skin barrier- 

• Skin cells
• Proteins
• Ceramides
• Lipids 

Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is very important for the good functioning of the skin. This is referred to as the skin's natural moisture barrier. A healthy skin barrier helps make skin look the best and most beautiful. 

Let us learn more about the healthy skin barrier and why it is important for the healthy functioning of the body.

What is the skin barrier?

Skin structure is an important aspect of a healthy skin barrier. This includes three individual layers which are the following– 

1. Epidermis
2. Dermis
3. Hypodermis 

Each of these layers performs unique functions for healthy skin. Let us check out the functions of each and every skin layer.

The function of the skin layers forming a skin barrier

The function of the skin layers forming the skin barrier are as follows- 

• Epidermis 

This is the topmost layer of the skin which forms the stratum corneum. This is also known as the protective barrier of the skin which has the natural appearance of a pinkish brick wall. This is made up of the following- 

• Natural cholesterol
• Ceramides
• Fatty acids 

This layer is referred to as the skin’s natural moisturizing factor as they keep the deeper layers of the skin hydrated and nourished. 

• Dermis 

The dermis is a fibrous structure composed of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular components. The primary function of the dermis is to support and protect the deeper skin layers to help in thermoregulation and improve sensitivity. 

• Hypodermis 

The hypodermis is the deepest layer of the skin made up of subcutaneous fat and adipose cells which help lock in moisture and provide a dewy and supple effect to the skin.

What are the main functions of the skin barrier?

The main functions of the skin barrier are as follows- 

• Protecting from external stressors such as pollution and UV radiation
• Retaining water to keep the skin hydrated
• Transporting vital nutrients to your skin
• Maintaining body homeostasis for a balanced condition
• Has high moisture retaining the capacity for improving skin elasticity
• Prevents trans-epidermal water loss to avoid dull dry skin
• It helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors like pollution and sunlight
• Prevents free radical damage to avoid discoloration, laxity, and premature wrinkles

Damage to the skin barrier

Skin barrier impairment can lead to a weak skin barrier affecting the genetic and lifestyle factors which affect the skin barrier health. The skin barrier can be damaged by following factors which include the following- 

1. UV radiation
2. Smoking and alcohol
3. Chronic exposure to pollution
4. Long-term exposure to sun rays
5. Lifestyle factors such as stress levels
6. Irregular sleep cycle 

All these constitute the major internal and external factors that are capable of disrupting and damaging the skin barrier. This in turn promotes the healthy appearance of the skin.

How to protect your skin barrier?

Following the right skincare routine can help create a positive impact on the skin.  Let us read further about how a complete skincare routine can help to maintain and protect the skin barrier. Here are a few simple steps to protect your skin barrier - 

Step 1- Eliminate dirt, grime, and debris with a gentle cleanser

Step 2 - Use a natural toner to maintain the pH balance

Step 3- Reach out for a Nourishing Facial Serum

Step 4- Lock in hydration with moisturization 

Step 5- Protect your skin with SPF

You do not have to put in much effort to protect your skin barrier. Just a simple skincare routine and a healthy lifestyle can work wonders to protect the skin barrier. Skin barrier maintenance can be a transformative step in replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier by stabilizing it and boosting resilience against external stressors.