Supporting your skin barrier: the foundation of calm, hydrated skin

Does your skin feel constantly dry, itchy or easily inflamed during the colder months? If so, your skin barrier may need extra support.

Conditions such as eczema and dermatitis are often used interchangeably, but both refer to inflammation of the skin. In many cases, the underlying issue isn’t sensitivity itself, but a compromised skin barrier. This outermost layer of the skin plays a crucial role in keeping moisture in and potential irritants out. When it’s weakened, hydration escapes more easily and the skin becomes more reactive, leading to irritation and inflammation.

Why hydration alone isn’t enough

Dehydration is one of the biggest contributing factors to inflammatory skin conditions. When the skin lacks moisture, it becomes more prone to irritation and irritation is what fuels inflammation.

That’s why true relief comes from more than simply adding moisture. The focus should be on strengthening and repairing the skin barrier, helping the skin retain hydration and defend itself more effectively. This becomes especially important in winter, when cold temperatures and dry indoor air accelerate moisture loss.

How to care for your skin in winter

What to do:

• Support barrier repair
  Look for ingredients such as niacinamide, panthenol (provitamin B5) and hyaluronic acid, which help strengthen the skin barrier while improving hydration and resilience.

• Shower in the evening
  Evening bathing helps prevent unnecessary moisture loss throughout the day. Apply a nourishing moisturiser again in the morning to maintain hydration levels.

• Maintain consistent moisture levels
  Keeping the skin well hydrated helps minimise irritation and reduces the risk of flare-ups.

• Lock in moisture after bathing
  Apply a lipid-rich emollient while the skin is still slightly damp. Activator 7 face + body + hair oil from Sansceuticals is designed to create a protective hydrolipidic film, helping to seal in moisture.

• Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser
  Cleansing should never compromise the skin barrier. The Goji Body + Face Cleansing Oil gently cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

• Exfoliate with care
  Removing dry, dead skin cells helps prevent flare-ups and allows active ingredients to absorb more effectively. For sensitive or inflamed skin, gentle exfoliation is key. Discover the exfoliators from Nourished using natural ingredients like ultra-fine bamboo particles combined with nourishing shea butter and coconut oil for a supportive, non-irritating exfoliation.

What to avoid:

• Harsh chemicals and known irritants

• Hot showers

• Going outdoors with wet skin, particularly in winter
  

• Sitting next to a heater or in the airco all day
  
  

A final winter skin tip

Hydration doesn’t stop at skincare. Drinking additional warm water and using a humidifier at home or in the office can significantly support the skin during colder months. If you don't have a humidifier and have the heating on, place a bowl of fresh water on the heating. 

Healthy, supple skin starts with a strong barrier and giving the skin exactly what it needs to restore balance and comfort.

Want to know more about dry skin vs. dehydrated skin, read the article.