Damaged skin barrier: how to repair it

The skin is the largest organ in the body and acts as our first line of defence against the outside world. However, factors such as climate, stress, unsuitable cosmetics or certain dermatological conditions can disrupt its balance. When this happens, a damaged skin barrier appears — a more common problem than it seems, and one that often goes unnoticed until the symptoms become evident. In this article, we explain what the skin barrier is and how to repair it.

What is the skin barrier?

The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum. It is composed of cells and lipids — such as ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids — that function, to put it simply, like a "brick wall".

Its role is to prevent water loss, protect against external aggressors, regulate the microbiota and keep the skin firm, smooth and balanced.

When this structure weakens, the skin loses its protective capacity, becomes more permeable and the dreaded damaged skin barrier appears.

Symptoms of a damaged skin barrier

These are the most common symptoms:

• Intense dryness or flaking.
• Feeling of tightness even after applying cream.
• Constant redness or irritation.
• Burning or stinging when applying cosmetic products.
• Acne breakouts or extreme sensitivity.
• Appearance of rough patches or uneven areas.
• Greater tendency towards infections or dermatitis.

What damages our skin barrier? Excessive use of exfoliants, retinoids or acids; overly harsh cleansers; chronic stress; lack of hydration; prolonged sun exposure without protection; or skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis or rosacea are some of the most common causes behind a damaged skin barrier.

How to repair the skin barrier

1. Gentle, respectful cleansing

The first step towards repairing the skin is using a cleanser that does not strip natural lipids. A perfect product for this is Skin Resist Velvet Cleanser, a silky-textured cleanser that cleans without irritating, maintains the appropriate pH and leaves the skin calm and supple. It is ideal both for sensitive skin and for those who already have a disrupted barrier.

2. Deep, restorative hydration

To repair the barrier it is essential to use ingredients that replenish the skin's lipids: ceramides, glycerin, fatty acids, squalane, urea and cholesterol.

An excellent option is Dexeryl Emollient Cream, formulated to relieve severe dryness, protect the skin and promote barrier repair. It is ideal for daily use and for extremely dry, irritated or atopy-prone skin.

If you prefer a shower product that also cares for the barrier, Dexeryl Cleansing Oil is perfect: it cleanses without drying and provides a protective film that prevents water loss.

3. Specific care for the eye contour

The skin around the eyes is the thinnest and the first to show signs of a compromised barrier. It is therefore important to reinforce it with gentle yet effective products.

Skin Resist Eye Contour hydrates, decongests and strengthens this very delicate area, reducing the irritation and dryness associated with a weakened barrier.

4. Soothe and reduce inflammation

When the barrier is damaged, the skin tends to be sensitive and reactive. An essential product is Avène Thermal Spring Water, renowned for its powerful soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. You can apply it several times a day to relieve discomfort, rebalance the skin and improve its tolerance.

In addition to following a good routine that cares for, repairs and restores the skin, during this process it is very important to avoid physical and chemical exfoliants, treatments with retinoids and high-concentration vitamin C, and washing the skin with very hot water.