What is the skin barrier and how do I fix it?

The skin barrier is the outer part of your skin that helps keep water in and irritants, germs, and harsh chemicals out. When people say their barrier is “damaged,” they usually mean the skin is dry, tight, stingy, flaky, or more reactive than usual.

The fix is usually boring, and that is the point. Stop over-exfoliating. Use a gentle cleanser. Keep showers lukewarm instead of hot. Apply a fragrance-free cream or ointment soon after bathing so the moisture gets trapped in the skin instead of evaporating. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and dimethicone for dry, irritated skin.

If the skin is cracking, burning badly, or not improving after a couple of weeks of simpler care, that is the point to get it checked instead of buying more products.

A reliable ceramide moisturizer is a small investment that makes this easier: ceramide moisturizer.