SKIN BARRIER

The skin barrier is our skin’s natural protective shield. It is located in the uppermost layer of skin and ensures that harmful substances, germs, or allergens do not penetrate – while also keeping moisture locked inside the skin. 
If the skin barrier is disrupted, the skin can become dry, sensitive, or irritated. This can be caused by frequent washing, UV radiation, stress, or unsuitable skincare products, for example.

Microbiomes are tiny, beneficial microorganisms that live on our skin – like an invisible protective community. They help defend against harmful germs, support the skin’s immune system, and maintain the balance of the skin barrier. 
A disrupted microbiome can make the skin more prone to inflammation, blemishes, or allergies. That’s why it’s important to choose skincare products that do not disturb the microbiome – such as mild, pH-neutral products without aggressive ingredients.

In inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis, there is often a pronounced barrier dysfunction. A key measurement tool in this context is transepidermal water loss (TEWL). An elevated TEWL value indicates a weakened barrier and is a typical feature of chronic inflammatory skin changes.