The Functioning Lipid Barrier

let’s talk about your LIPID BARRIER—

If you've ever experienced burning skin, swelling, itching or flakiness and redness these could all be signs that your lipid barrier has been compromised or damaged, and is in need of some TLC.

What are Lipids?

Lipids are the skin’s natural fats. There are 2 kinds of lipids: epidermal and sebaceous.

- Epidermal lipids are a mix composed of ceramides, free fatty acids and cholesterol.  

- Sebaceous lipids include triglycerides, wax esters, and squalene.

External & Internal stressors that may cause lipid barrier sensitivity:

    •    Pollutants, bacteria, pathogens and allergens.

    •    Excessive sun exposure.

    •    An environment that is too humid/ too dry OR too cold and moisture stripping

    •    Use of soaps and detergents that may strip the skin lipid or moisture barrier.

    •    Over-cleansing and over-exfoliating. 

    •    Product overload and incorrect layering of products / active ingredients that can disrupt the pH of the skin. 

    •    Any ingredient that may cause sensitivity or allergic reaction that may be unique to you.  What could work absolutely fine for someone else may trigger a reaction in you.  

    •    Genetics may contribute towards developing skin diseases like psoriasis and dermatitis.

    •    Hormonal changes, unhinged cortisol levels

Signs of a Weakened or Compromised Lipid Barrier

    •    Increased sensitivity and/or soreness

    •    Irritation

    •    Swelling 

    •    Infection

    •    Redness

    •    Dryness

    •    Noticeable flaking 

    •    Itching

    •    Breakouts you can’t seem to get rid of 

    •    As the lipid barrier is getting thinner you may notice that your skin takes longer to heal from cuts, bruises or breakouts. The skin may also become less able to defend itself against internal and external stressors (free radicals and oxidative stress) and biochemical triggers like glycation.

How to repair, nurture and care for your skin lipid barrier:

BUY THE COMFORT CREAM AND USE IT GENEROUSLY. This genius moisturizer will rebalance the damaged lipid barrier within a few days of usage. Order online or pick up in studio!