Signs of a Damaged Skin Barrier
- Persistent dryness or flakiness
- Increased sensitivity or redness
- Burning, stinging, or itching
- Breakouts or rough texture
- Skin that doesn’t “bounce back” or heal easily
Common Causes of Skin Barrier Damage
- Overuse of active ingredients like exfoliants or retinoids
- Harsh cleansers and soaps
- Environmental aggressors (wind, sun, pollution)
- Stress and lack of sleep
- UV exposure and pollution
Risk Factors
- Skin conditions like eczema or rosacea
- Aging skin that produces fewer natural lipids
- Frequent swimming in chlorinated water
- Inconsistent or aggressive skincare routines