“When the skin barrier is compromised, this can increase the rate at which water is lost from the skin—transepidermal water loss (TEWL)—and alters the levels of proteins and lipids in the skin. If your skin barrier can’t repair itself—or isn’t given the help it needs to repair—TEWL increases leading to skin that appears dry, flaky, inflamed and lacking elasticity,” explains Elrick.
Inflammation came up time and time again when I was speaking to the experts, and Ayodele explains that this damage to the skin barrier often shows itself as “redness, flushing and stinging when certain products are applied.” Plus, she adds, “The skin can also be dry and scaly because it is unable to hold on to moisture.”
Basically, it’s not great. But luckily, there is a whole roster of brilliant skincare products landing on the market right now that are designed to combat this damage and maintain healthy skin.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up 12 of the best skin-barrier products to try right now—including picks from the experts and formulas that have wowed me (and my skin barrier). Say hello to healthy, glowy skin.
