Expert reveals leading causes of modern skin barrier damage

The outermost layer of the skin, called the skin barrier, forms a protective layer. It helps capture water and block allergens, such as bacteria, pollutants, and strong chemicals.

In one instance, when this obstacle is strong, the skin is in equilibrium, moist, and robust. However, if damaged, the skin is tender and vulnerable to many issues.

Dr Nirupama Parwanda, Dermatologist and Founder of Zolie Skin Clinic, explains that "one of the leading causes of skin barrier damage in the modern era is the overuse of active skincare ingredients."

Many individuals follow online trends using exfoliating acids or retinoids without understanding proper application. "All these ingredients could be useful, but when used improperly or in excess, they can strip the skin of its own oils and even its protective layer," Dr Parwanda remarked.

Excessive cleansing also disrupts the skin's balance, particularly for those with oily skin who believe more washing will tame oil.

Furthermore, Dr Sameer Apte from SRV Hospitals tells Health Shots that "not all products, or the quantities applied simultaneously, will be compatible with all skin types."

What causes your skin barrier to be damaged?

1. Excessive use of skincare products

• One of the leading causes of skin barrier damage in the modern era is the overuse of active skincare ingredients.
• Many people follow skincare trends online and use products containing exfoliating acids, retinoids, vitamin C, and harsh treatments without understanding how often to use them or how much product to apply.
• All these ingredients could be useful, but when used improperly or in excess, they can strip the skin of its own oils and even its protective layer.

2. Excessive cleansing

• The second similarity is the excessive cleansing. The skin's balance may be disrupted by excessive facial washing or by using harsh, high-pH cleansers.
• People with oily or acne-prone skin are inclined to believe that the more they wash their faces, the more their oil will be tamed; in reality, this does not work and only dries the skin, which can lead to further irritation and even more breakouts.

3. Environmental stressors

• They also cause pollution, UV radiation, extreme weather changes, and prolonged air-conditioning use, all of which gradually destroy the skin barrier.
• Other factors that contribute to inflammation and sensitivity include urban life, stress, sleeplessness, and dehydration.

How to repair a damaged skin barrier?

• One can also minimise or temporarily remove strong active ingredients, thereby helping the skin recover.
• A light, soapless cleanser should be used, and it is better not to denude the skin.
• "The availability of moisturising ingredients, including ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, fatty acids, and niacinamide, helps restore the natural skin barrier and prevent moisture loss", says Dr Parwanda.
• Using sunscreen daily is also essential, as sun exposure can erode and weaken the skin.

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as professional advice.