Your skin barrier must be intact before introducing exfoliating acids. Signs of compromise include persistent tightness, stinging from gentle products, visible redness, and increased sensitivity. A compromised barrier cannot tolerate exfoliation and requires 2-4 weeks of barrier support before acids can be safely introduced.
The five most effective barrier-supporting ingredients are ceramides (lipid replenishment), niacinamide (strengthens barrier proteins), cholesterol (lipid matrix support), fatty acids (structural integrity), and hyaluronic acid (hydration retention). Clinical studies indicate these ingredients work synergistically to support skin’s natural protective function when applied consistently over 4-8 weeks.
Your skin barrier is the outermost protective layer of your epidermis, composed of skin cells and lipids that shield against environmental damage whilst preventing moisture loss. When functioning properly, it maintains hydration, protects against irritants, and supports overall skin health—making it essential for comfortable, resilient skin.
A compromised skin barrier typically presents with persistent dryness, increased sensitivity to products, visible redness or inflammation, rough texture, and delayed healing of blemishes. These signs often appear together and worsen without intervention, indicating your skin’s protective function needs support.
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Before you purchase active ingredients on SkinMiles we require you to complete our once-off, in-depth skin assessment designed by Dr Alek Nikolic.
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