The skin barrier is important in protecting the skin from infection and irritants from the environment and is also important in prevention of water and heat loss from the body. Atopic eczema has been strongly linked to dry skin and poor barrier function. Hence, it is very important to maintain good barrier integrity.
The most important layer for skin barrier protection is the outer layer known as the stratum corneum. This is made up of cells (corneocytes) surrounded by a lipid layer. This lipid layer us made up of ceramides, cholesterol and squalene. When this layer is disrupted, the barrier function is compromised.
To maintain the skin barrier, it is important to use gentle soap free and ph balanced cleansers as normal soaps can be harsh on the skin. Frequent washing and contact with soaps and detergents will also wear away the skin barrier and should be minimized.
Moisturizers are very important in maintaining the skin hydration and barrier repair. My colleague has explained clearly about the dfferent types of moisturizers.
The newer moisurizers are lipid based and contain ingredients like ceramides. These moisturizers mimic more closely the skin’s natural moisturizers and are able to penetrate and repair the lipid layer defect of the stratum corneum, resulting in a longer lasting effect on the skin.
