Skip to main content

REPAIR – HEALING

The skin barrier is essential for our overall health and must be protected to help our body function properly. Our skin consists of layers, each performing important functions. The outermost layer, called the stratum corneum, is made up of tough skin cells called keratinocytes that are connected by lipids. This is our skin barrier.

Inside the skin cells, we find keratin and natural moisturizing elements.
The lipid layer contains:

cholesterol - fatty acids - ceramides

Without the skin barrier, various harmful environmental toxins and pathogens could penetrate our skin and cause adverse effects on our body. Additionally, without the skin barrier, the water inside our body would escape and evaporate, leaving us completely dehydrated.

What can damage the skin barrier

Daily, our skin defends against internal and external aggressive factors, such as:

  • very humid or very dry environment
  • allergens, irritants, and pollutants
  • excessive sun exposure
  • alkaline detergents and soaps
  • exposure to harsh chemicals
  • excessive exfoliation or over-washing
  • steroids
  • psychological discomfort
  • genetic factors that may make you more prone to certain skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis

When the skin barrier does not function properly, the following symptoms may appear:

  • dry, flaky skin 
  • itching 
  • rough or discolored patches 
  • acne 
  • sensitive or inflamed areas 
  • bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections

Expert advice

  • Simplify your skincare routine by choosing a cleanser and a moisturizing cream.
  • Choose products with a pH of 4.0 - 5.0.
  • Prefer moisturizing emulsions and creams with plant oils, such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, almond oil, argan oil.
  • Look for formulations that include ceramides.

Discover the Cicapur series