Your skin barrier does a lot of behind-the-scenes work to keep your face happy, healthy, and protected — so when it’s damaged, you feel it. Maybe your skin is suddenly tight, itchy, inflamed, breaking out more, or just feels “off.” You’re not imagining it…the barrier is a big deal.
The good news? Barrier repair doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, with the right approach, your skin can bounce back faster than you think. Let’s talk about what your barrier actually is, how it gets compromised, and what to do to fix it.
What Is Your Skin Barrier Anyway?
Think of your skin barrier like a brick wall: your skin cells are the bricks, and lipids (aka fats) are the mortar that holds everything together. This layer keeps water in and irritants out. When it’s working properly, your skin looks smooth, calm, and hydrated.
When it’s damaged, the “mortar” breaks down and your skin suddenly becomes unhappy. Even the gentlest products can feel irritating when your skin barrier is compromised.
Signs You’re Dealing with Overstripped Skin
If you’ve been using a lot of active ingredients or switching up your skincare routine constantly, there’s a good chance your skin might be overstripped. This is a common cause of barrier damage. The good news is, it’s an easy thing to fix once you recognize the issue.
Here’s what overstripped skin looks and feels like:
- Dry patches or flakiness
- Redness or irritation
- Stinging or burning when applying products
- Breakouts or increased sensitivity
- A tight, dehydrated feeling even after moisturizing
Overstripped skin is a sign that your barrier needs a reset.
How to Repair Your Skin Barrier (Without Freaking Out)
Step 1: Stop doing too much
Put the actives down. Now’s not the time for retinol, exfoliants (chemical or physical), or anything labeled “deep clean.” Over-cleansing and using too many products are the most common culprits behind overstripped skin. Simplifying your routine gives your skin the space it needs to recover.
Step 2: Moisturize like it’s your full-time job
This is where barrier repair comes in. Look for moisturizers that are rich in ingredients like shea butter, squalane, and natural oils. Our solid face balms and lotion bars are formulated specifically to help rebuild your skin’s protective layer without clogging pores or causing further irritation.
Step 3: Listen to your skin and watch it repair itself
Give your skin a few weeks of gentle, nourishing care. You’ll likely notice the difference fast, including less redness, fewer flare-ups, and a smoother, more hydrated texture overall.
Step 4: Reintroduce products slowly
Very very slowly start to reintroduce exfoliants, retinol, etc. Start with one time a week and gradually increase - if your skin starts to show signs of a damaged barrier, scale back.
Your Skin Wants to Heal — Let It
We always want to make sure we’re treating our skin with the care it deserves, especially when it’s irritated or showing signs of being overstripped. If you’ve been dealing with overstripped skin and suspect your barrier is compromised, don’t panic. Focus on repair, not perfection — and remember, your skin is always trying to take care of you. You’ve just got to return the favor.