The skin barrier: how to take care of it

The skin barrier is your skin's first line of defense. However, it is often neglected in our skincare routines. Weakened by external aggressions, it can lead to imbalances such as dryness, sensitivity or imperfections. Understanding its role and learning how to take care of it is essential to maintain healthy and radiant skin.

What is the skin barrier?

The skin barrier, also called the hydrolipidic film , is a thin protective layer composed of water, lipids and keratinized cells. It acts as a shield against external aggressions (pollution, UV, bacteria) while regulating water loss from the skin.

When this barrier is balanced, the skin remains hydrated, supple and resistant. On the other hand, if it is weakened, problems such as dehydration, redness, tightness or even hypersensitivity can appear.

Why does the skin barrier become fragile?

Many factors can compromise the integrity of the skin barrier:

1. Harsh cleansers : Products containing sulfates or harsh detergents can strip essential lipids from the skin.

2. Extreme climates : Cold, wind or excessive heat dry out and weaken the skin.

3. Pollution and oxidative stress : These environmental aggressions cause cellular damage and loss of radiance.

4. Excessive exfoliation : Too much exfoliation, whether mechanical or chemical, can damage the barrier by removing protective layers.

How do you know if your skin barrier is weakened?

Here are some telltale signs:

• Feelings of tightness or discomfort, even after applying a cream.

• Appearance of redness or irritation.

• Peeling skin or uneven texture.

• Loss of radiance and dull complexion.

How to take care of the skin barrier?

To maintain or restore a healthy skin barrier, it is essential to adopt an appropriate routine, composed of gentle and restorative care.

1. Cleanse gently

Choose a cleanser that is sulfate- and alcohol-free and formulated to respect your skin's natural pH. Avoid hot water, which can further dry out your skin.

2. Hydrate and repair with suitable active ingredients

Moisturizing and restorative ingredients play a crucial role:

• Hyaluronic acids : Deeply hydrate while strengthening the barrier.

• Ceramides and essential fatty acids : Restore natural lipids for protected skin.

• Soothing plant extracts such as aloe vera or cornflower: Calm irritations.

3. Protect against external aggressions

Use skincare rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C or polyphenols, to combat the effects of pollution and free radicals. An SPF cream is also essential to protect the skin from UV rays, even in winter.

4. Reduce exfoliation

Limit the use of scrubs or exfoliating acids, especially if your skin is sensitive. Favor gentle and spaced exfoliations to avoid altering the skin barrier.

Our tailored treatments to strengthen the skin barrier

Maison GASPARD COTTANCE skincare products are specifically formulated to restore and preserve the integrity of the skin barrier, combining exceptional organic ingredients and innovative technologies. Each product works in synergy to meet the skin's fundamental needs and support its natural protective function.

• The First Essence:
  Thanks to its combination of 3 hyaluronic acids of different molecular weights, it moisturizes the skin in depth, on the surface and in its intermediate layers. This action helps to fill water losses while strengthening the suppleness and elasticity of the epidermis. Its soothing plant polysaccharides reduce redness and irritation, while organic aloe vera extract calms and repairs weakened skin, leaving a feeling of freshness and comfort.

• The Original Serum:
  This multifunctional serum protects the skin barrier from external aggressions thanks to its blend of powerful antioxidants , such as white lupin peptides and blueberry stem cells enriched with vitamin C , which neutralize free radicals responsible for premature aging. The pre/postbiotic complex supports the balance of the skin microbiota, a fundamental pillar for a more resilient barrier. By strengthening the diversity and stability of beneficial microorganisms, it promotes healthy, balanced and more resistant skin.

• The Concentrated Cream:
  Formulated with organic vegetable oils rich in essential fatty acids and shea butter, this cream restores the lipids essential to the skin barrier. It acts as a protective shield against dehydration and external aggressions. Its rich but light texture envelops the skin in lasting comfort, while revitalizing and soothing weakened areas.

A few simple steps to preserve the skin barrier

1. Hydrate yourself from the inside out by drinking enough water every day.

2. Use a humidifier in winter to prevent drying out due to heating.

3. Adopt a minimalist routine if your skin is sensitized: fewer products, but better adapted.

Conclusion

Taking care of your skin barrier is essential to preserve the health and beauty of your skin. By adopting gentle gestures and choosing suitable care, you can restore this fragile balance and regain a radiant and comfortable complexion. With our organic and luxurious range, offer your skin incomparable protection and hydration.