Contents:

• What is the skin’s hydrolipid barrier?
• What causes the skin's natural hydrolipid barrier to be destroyed?
• How do we know that our hydrolipid barrier is disrupted?
• How do you rebuild the hydrolipid barrier?
• A healthy diet for the skin

The skin plays an important protective role in our body, but it is also our calling card, and its condition influences our well-being. For the skin to perform its functions effectively, it must be adequately moisturized and cared for. Modern lifestyles, adverse weather conditions, improper care, and poor nutrition can cause the skin to become gray, dry, and dull. Therefore, it is worth using appropriate products and care techniques that help restore the skin's natural radiance and rebuild its hydrolipid barrier. It is worth remembering that proper skin care not only improves its appearance but also has a positive effect on our overall well-being and self-confidence.

What is the skin’s hydrolipid barrier?

The hydrolipid mantle plays an important role in protecting the skin from external aggressions and maintaining its proper condition. It consists of three main elements: the stratum corneum, the microbiome, and the so-called hydrolipid mantle. The hydrolipid mantle, which covers the epidermis externally, contains substances such as triglycerides, fatty acids, wax esters, squalene, cholesterol, ceramides, water, and urea. The sebaceous and sweat glands are also important because they secrete substances necessary to maintain the proper functioning of this barrier. Thanks to their properties, the epidermal barrier primarily protects the skin from external aggressions, the penetration of microorganisms and harmful chemicals, and also regulates the hydration of the epidermis, preventing excessive water evaporation.

What causes the skin's natural hydrolipid barrier to be destroyed?

Damage to the skin's protective barrier can occur due to excessive exfoliation and the improper use of strong active ingredients such as acids and retinol, which are found in creams and face masks, among others. Similar effects can occur with dermatological therapies using certain steroid medications or, for example, isotretinoin. The protective layer of the epidermis can also be damaged by improper skin care. Harsh cleansing products strip the skin of lipids and disrupt its natural, slightly acidic pH, which creates ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria and fungi. In addition, certain external factors can also negatively impact the protective hydrolipid layer, such as:

• hot, dry air,
• UV,
• low temperatures,
• sudden changes in temperature,
• Wind,
• Air conditioning.

How do we know that our hydrolipid barrier is disrupted?

A disruption of the skin's hydrolipid barrier can be identified by several symptoms. The first sign is dry and rough skin, which can also be prone to all kinds of irritations. Redness, burning, and even itching can also occur. Furthermore, people with a disrupted hydrolipid barrier may experience increased water loss from the skin, leading to slight dehydration and an unpleasant "tight feeling." One of the symptoms can also be excessive oiliness of the facial skin, which produces excessive sebum in an attempt to rebuild its protective barrier. This is when new problems arise, such as blackheads.

How do you rebuild the hydrolipid barrier?

To rebuild the skin's hydrolipid barrier, it's necessary to ensure proper hydration and protection. This means systematically using moisturizing face creams and body lotions, which help maintain the skin's proper hydration level. It's also worth avoiding harsh cleansers and products that can dry out the skin, as well as exfoliating cosmetics based on acids and vitamin A derivatives, such as retinol. Don't forget sunscreen. Cream ingredients that help rebuild the hydrolipid barrier include:

• Squalane,
• Lanolin,
• Urea,
• PHA acids, e.g. lactobionic acid,
• Hyaluronic acid – an ingredient that binds water molecules,
• Ceramides – form intercellular cement, protect against the negative effects of external factors,
• Vegetable oils and butter,
• Oleic acid – of natural origin, e.g. in hemp oil, sweet almond oil or avocado .

A healthy diet for the skin

One of the most important factors influencing skin condition is adequate water intake. Drinking sufficient amounts of fluids helps maintain optimal hydration of the skin, thus improving its elasticity and firmness. By drinking water regularly, we can also increase the skin's ability to regenerate and prevent excessive dehydration.

A balanced, nutrient-rich diet also plays an important role in providing the skin with the necessary nutrients. It's worth paying attention to healthy, balanced meals rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, E, and K. Omega-3 fatty acids support collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and prevent skin aging. Vitamins are essential for skin regeneration and renewal and protect it from harmful external influences.

To avoid damaging the hydrolipid barrier, limit the use of harsh cleansing agents. Exfoliating products such as enzyme peels should ideally be used no more than once a week, and avoid cosmetics containing particles and grains. Cosmetics containing acids and retinol are also discouraged if our skin is significantly irritated. Long and frequent baths can also negatively impact the skin's protective barrier, so short showers are recommended. Regular, gentle skincare and ensuring proper hydration and protection help rebuild and strengthen the hydrolipid barrier, which contributes to maintaining health and a radiant appearance.