5 MISTAKES IN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE THAT DAMAGE YOUR SKIN BARRIER
Maintaining a strong skin barrier is essential for radiant, resilient skin, but it's easy to make a few skincare mistakes during your routine that unintentionally compromise it. Let's explore missteps that damage your skin barrier and simple, powerful solutions for skin barrier support!
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A HEALTHY & IMPAIRED SKIN BARRIER
Your skin barrier is like a protective shield that keeps moisture in and irritants out. It's composed of natural lipids, such as ceramides and fatty acids, that help maintain a healthy balance of hydration and protection. When your skin barrier is impaired, you can easily lose moisture and open the door to harmful substances like pollution and bacteria.
5 COMMON SKINCARE MISTAKES THAT CREATE A DAMAGED SKIN BARRIER
What exactly harms your skin barrier? Let's look at five common skincare mistakes so you can make informed decisions that promote balanced, healthy skin.
MISTAKE 1: USING HARSH CLEANSERS AND HOT WATER
Scrubbing your skin with harsh cleansers and hot water may make you feel squeaky clean, but it also strips away the natural oils and lipids that keep your skin barrier strong, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Solution: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and lukewarm water to avoid a damaged skin barrier. Try our creamy Vitamin C Cleanser to gently and effectively remove impurities while nourishing your skin with Vitamin C and antioxidants. This pharmaceutical-grade formula is ideal for all skin types and will also reduce inflammation.
MISTAKE 2: OVER-EXFOLIATING
Exfoliating does an excellent job removing dead skin cells, but using this technique too frequently can strip away essential lipids that keep your skin barrier strong and healthy.
Solution: Avoid using harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants more than once or twice a week and give your skin a break if you're experiencing any irritation. Our Peptide Micro Scrub is a great addition to your daily routine. This crystal alternative to microdermabrasion can be added to any cleanser or masque to minimize pores, softly exfoliate and reduce dull or uneven complexion.
MISTAKE 3: USING TOO MANY ACTIVE INGREDIENTS AT ONCE
Using more than one serum to include multiple active ingredients like Retinol, Vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) may seem like a good idea, but too many at a time can lead to over-exfoliation and irritation. This is especially true for sensitive skin types. Plus, a damaged skin barrier may not have the opportunity to recover before you introduce another active ingredient.
Solution: Introduce one new product with active ingredients at a time and allow your skin to adjust before adding another. Remember, less is often more when it comes to skincare.
MISTAKE 4: SKIPPING MOISTURIZER
Moisturizer just makes oily skin even more oily, right? Actually, skipping moisturizer entirely can lead to even more oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the lack of hydration. Moisturizers can replenish any lost lipids you've washed away while cleansing and add extra strength to your skin barrier, making this step essential (even for oily skin).
Solution: Choose a professional moisturizer that's tested and proven to support healthy skin. Daily Repair Cream is a moisturizing powerhouse that's suitable for all skin types. It delivers essential lipids and moisture to help the skin barrier while fighting acne-causing bacteria.
MISTAKE 5: IGNORING SUN PROTECTION
Sun damage not only increases your risk of skin cancer but also compromises your skin barrier by breaking down collagen and damaging essential lipids. UVA rays can penetrate windows and clouds, so even on cloudy days or days spent indoors, daily sun protection is a must.
BONUS MISTAKE: USING TOO HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
We all want fast results, but starting with high concentrations of active ingredients can do more harm than good. These high-strength products can irritate and damage your skin barrier, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Solution: Always follow your skincare professional’s recommended concentration and the directions on the product label to avoid damaging your skin barrier. Gradually work up to higher percentages if necessary, with the help of a professional esthetician.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE: TIPS FOR SUPPORTING YOUR SKIN BARRIER
Supporting a damaged skin barrier begins with integrating mindful practices into your daily routine. Here are a few empowering tips to help you cultivate healthier skin at home:
- Simplify Your Routine: Start by paring down your skincare regimen to the essentials—cleanser, serum, moisturizer and sunscreen. Allow your skin time to adjust before reintroducing additional products.
- Stay Hydrated: Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining a robust skin barrier. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and your entire body hydrated from the inside out.
- Pat, Don’t Rub: When drying your face or applying products, gently pat rather than rub your skin. This prevents unnecessary friction that can contribute to irritation.
- Adjust Lifestyle Factors: Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, managing stress effectively and ensuring adequate sleep each night can significantly impact your skin's resilience.
If you find these home practices aren't effectively supporting your skin, consider consulting with a licensed skincare professional before any issues progress. Many skin conditions stem from a compromised skin barrier and skincare mistakes, but early intervention can make all the difference. Find your local GlyMed Pro for advice on beneficial products with skin barrier support. You'll ensure that your skin and peace of mind remain in safe hands.