Skin barrier disrupted: Why is the skin barrier so important in eczema, rosacea and other itchy skin conditions?

It is important to delve into the intricacies of the skin barrier, especially for people suffering from eczema and rosacea. This blog aims to explore the nature of the skin barrier to understand why its impairment is a critical problem for people suffering from pruritus, and to recognize its central role in the effective treatment of itch-prone skin conditions.

 

What is the skin barrier and its protective role?

Most discussions about the skin barrier revolve around the stratum corneum, the top layer of the epidermis, also known as the acid mantle – the outermost layer that acts as a protective shield. The skin is made up of three main layers: the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (made up of collagen, elastin, blood, and nerves), and the subcutaneous layer, which serves as the final barrier between skin and muscle. First and foremost, the skin barrier, which includes the stratum corneum or acid mantle, acts as the body's primary defense. This protective shield, which includes the outer layer (epidermis), the collagen-rich dermis, and the subcutaneous layer as the final boundary, plays a critical role in protecting against external stressors.

 

Why is the skin barrier important for eczema, rosacea and itchy skin?

The skin barrier plays a twofold role in skin diseases that tend to itch:

1. Protection: It protects against chemicals, pollutants and UV- radiation.
2. Moisture retention: Prevents transepidermal water loss, maintains elasticity and prevents dryness. Insufficient hydration impairs the protective function of the barrier against external stress factors.

Impairment of the skin barrier: recognizing the consequences

A disrupted skin barrier can manifest itself as follows:

• Chronic skin irritations, rosacea, eczema
• Itchy, dehydrated, dry skin
• Skin infections and delayed wound healing
• Hyperpigmentation

Factors that damage your skin barrier

Impairment is often the result of several factors, including:

• Environmental stress factors: pollution, sun, wind, smoking
• Incorrect product use: Excessive or incorrect use of cleansers, peels, retinols
• Lifestyle choices: lack of sleep and poor diet

 

Tailored tips to restore the skin barrier

The treatment of skin barrier damage requires an individual approach:

• Simplify your skincare routine: choose fragrance-free products and avoid inflammatory ingredients.
• Minimize inflammation: Avoid peeling ingredients and opt for soothing serums or moisturizers.
• General skin health: Your lifestyle matters – getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet and managing stress all have a positive effect on the health of your skin.

 

Expert insights: Understanding eczema and skin barrier dynamics

The genetic component

For people struggling with eczema, understanding the genetic aspect is crucial. Up to 30% of eczema patients have mutations in the gene for filaggrin, a key protein that is crucial for the structure of skin cells.

Lipids and eczema

In people with eczema, changes in skin lipids, particularly reduced ceramide levels, contribute to dryness, irritation and impaired skin function.

Expert recommendations for eczema-management

 

Leading dermatologists recommend a three-pronged approach to treating eczema and strengthening the skin barrier:

1. Moisturizing

Regular moisturizing improves the barrier function. We recommend thick ointments or creams such as our Waikura Manuka Body Lotion with ceramides or vitamin B3.

2. Minimize exposure to triggers

To break the cycle of skin barrier dysfunction, it is important to identify and avoid common eczema triggers such as allergens and irritants.

3. Bathing to repair the skin barrier

Gentle bathing or showering with our Waikura Manuka Body Wash, followed by a rich, moisturising Waikura Manuka Body Lotion, helps remove irritants and promotes skin barrier repair.

Are you looking for the right products for your itchy skin?

If you're looking for the perfect products for your itchy skin, you've come to the right place! Read more about our tailored solutions for eczema, rosacea and itchy skin here. Our key blogs provide detailed insights and recommendations to help you achieve optimal skin care.

 

Source:

Skin Barrier Basics for People With Eczema