Understanding your skin barrier

A wall of bricks and mortar

The stratum corneum — the top of the epidermis — is often described as bricks and mortar: flattened cells held together by lipids. Together they keep water in and irritants out.

When this barrier is disrupted, skin can feel dry, tight or sensitive, and conditions such as eczema can flare.

The barrier keeps water in and irritants out.

What weakens it

Over-cleansing, hot water, harsh exfoliants and some fragranced products can strip the barrier. Cold, dry weather adds to the effect.

Supporting it, simply

Gentle cleansing, regular moisturising and daily sun protection go a long way. More products are not always better — a short, consistent routine often works best.