What Exactly is The Skin Barrier?

We all learn in sixth grade biology that skin is an organ. Our biggest organ, to be exact. But that doesn’t stop us from thinking of it as just a rubbery envelope that holds in all our organs. While the skin itself has many depths and layers, the skin barrier sits right on top. And it’s a big deal.

The barrier is our outermost layer of skin, known as the stratum corneum. It has a very important job of protecting the deeper layers of our skin, and of course the inside of our bodies, from the nasty parts of the modern environment. It is what truly acts like a wrapper for our bodies, meaning if we treat it right, it acts as an impermeable layer, keeping hydration in, and harmful bacteria and microorganisms out. It’s basically our skin’s bouncer.

While the skin barrier keeps harmful pathogens, and other unwanted organisms and toxins out, it also has a layer of bacteria all its own— good bacteria. Think of it as its very own little microbiome. These organisms help to balance the pH, prevent infection, and fight off the bad guys that cause rashes, infection, and inflammation.

We damage our skin barrier when we over-exfoliate, get too much sun exposure that results in a burn, get wounds, and when we get rashes. A damaged skin barrier is a vulnerable skin barrier, meaning it becomes an open door to those harmful toxins and pathogens from the environment, and let’s moisture that we need for resilience, out. 

It’s best to avoid products with toxic chemicals, fragrances, and other things our body doesn’t recognize or want, anytime, but it’s especially crucial when our barrier is damaged. It’s vital to keep the area hydrated and protected. When you know you have a damaged area of the skin barrier, opt for gentle products, and products that promise to only nourish and protect. 

Savior Salve keeps moisture in, and harmful pathogens out. It’s excellent on all types of skin and keeps the body beautiful and vibrant, as well as eczema prone and psoriasis prone skin, dry, chapped skin, and even over scabs and wounds to keep infection and incessant picking at bay. Consider it your skin bouncer’s best friend.