scarring , pigment issues , acne , redness , irritation , and premature aging .
Impaired barrier function is characterized by rough , red , and flakey skin that is easily irritated due to the skin ’ s inability to protect itself from the outside environment . This is often a result of trans-epidermal water loss .” 3 Although we can ’ t see it with the naked eye , damage to the skin starts at the cellular level . Damaged cells are malfunctioning cells .
Common causes of a damaged barrier include the following :
• Genetic conditions like eczema .
• The natural decrease in lipid production associated with aging .
• External factors such as UV exposure and pollution .
• Aggressive skincare habits such as over exfoliating .
No matter the cause , when the barrier becomes damaged or compromised , the skin experiences transepidermal water loss ( TEWL ). TEWL is the first step in the inflammatory cascade . It leads to dehydrated skin that is susceptible to antigens , which cause irritation and initiate an inflammatory response . Inflammation can trigger and exacerbate many undesirable skin disorders . The negative effects of inflammation are so significant that a new term , “ inflammaging ,” has been coined to describe aging in the skin specifically caused by inflammatory processes .
Inflammation is the body ’ s natural response to injury . When tissues are injured , inflammation occurs and is necessary for healing , but too much can have negative consequences like
Damaged skin is not functioning properly at the cellular level , and this dysfunction is what leads to many skin disorders . Inflammation begets more inflammation , further reducing barrier function and wound healing ability while creating an inflammatory cycle as illustrated below .
Inflammation
Antigens enter and irritate the skin
Impaired Barrier
TEWL
Dryness , dehydration “ mortar ” damage
Skin Disorders Related to an Impaired Barrier
Common skin disorders , such as sensitivity and redness , acne , hyperpigmentation , and premature aging , all have one thing in common : a compromised skin barrier .
It is important to note that some disorders of the skin can be caused by internal disruptions such as hormone imbalances and autoimmune dysfunction and should be addressed by a medical professional .
The perfect balance of hydration and moisture is the foundation for healthy , glowing skin .