Chronically dry, inflammation-prone skin is a dead giveaway that you suffer from a compromised skin barrier.
Why is keeping your skin barrier strong so important?
Supporting your skin barrier isn’t just superficial either: It has repercussions for overall health, too.
First up: Maintain a healthy gut flora withprobiotics.
So if you have poor gut health, you are more likely to have similar issues with your skin.
Probiotics can help by managing the healthy bacteria internally.
And as biotic supplements have surged in popularity, so havebiotic skin care lines.
Thanks to the surge of research about the skin microbiome, sophisticated biome-supporting technologies have emerged.
It helps to use the “brick and mortar” analogy to envision the role of ceramides in skin.
“Specifically, ceramides serve as the glue that helps keep the skin cells together.”
It is the integrity of these cellular components that determine barrier function.
Turegano adds that nutsparticularly almonds and walnutsare especially beneficial nuts to incorporate for the skin.
Squalane or squalene
This lipid is naturally found in your skin’s sebum.
A common misconception!)
And research shows some advantages for the skin as anemollient, antioxidant, and for hydration3.
Humectants
Humectants are any ingredient that pulls in and holds water, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Check out our favoritehyaluronic acid serumshere.
The many clinical properties of colloidal oatmeal derive from its chemical polymorphism.
The high concentration is responsible for theprotective and water-holding functions of oat7and contributes to its antioxidative properties.
As for oat oil, it can help with barrier protection as wellin addition to supporting natural ceramide levels.
It has been known toboost ceramide levels in the skin,which help to keep skin cells together.
Manuka honey
Manuka honeyis renowned for its repairing benefits.
Check out our full list of thebest antioxidants to use for skin care here.
The bottom line.
For more products that can help support your barrier, check out favoritebarrier creams.
