There are a number of things that can damage your skin’s barrier. These may include:

• Too much or unprotected sun exposure. Always apply sun screen in the morning and re apply throughout the day even if it is raining outside.
• Avoid using harsh products or ingredients. Over-exfoliating and using too many AHAs and BHAs in your skincare regime and strip away your skin’s natural protective layer.
• Stress increases cortisol levels (stress hormone) which then drives inflammation in the skin.
• Increase Essential Fatty Acids in your diet, this will calm down inflammation. e.g Avocado, salmon, walnuts, flaxseed oil and canola oil.
• Avoid taking hot showers. This could dry the skin further and break down the barrier of the skin.
• Certain medications such as steroids may also weaken the immunity of the skin barrier.