The skin barrier, made up of the stratum corneum and upper epidermis, represents the outermost layers of the skin and provides a physical and biochemical barrier against pathogens and other environmental stressors.
 Structure
The stratum corneum represents a "brick and mortar" type construction in which pancake-like cells are layered with a thin coating of fat that make up the intracellular cement. As a result, the skin barrier is actually lipophilic or "fat-loving" as a natural way of resisting the absorption of bacteria and other aqueous environmental materials that fall on the skin.
As new cells move outward from the inner layers of the epidermis, the cells within the stratum corneum undergo continual replacement through this inside-out process. It is important to note that the healthier the cells that are being regenerated, the healthier the skin barrier becomes.
Function
The key to maintaining healthy skin is maintaining a healthy skin barrier. As the outermost layer of the skin, the skin barrier is subjected to a host of daily assaults including sun exposure, environmental pollutants, wind, chemicals and cosmetic cleansing products. These stressors contribute to its breakdown and compromise its protective capabilities. Therefore, on-going efforts are needed to promote the integrity of the skin barrier so that it can protect and help maintain healthy skin throughout a lifetime.
The Skin Barrier
• Consists of the outermost layers of the skin
• Is lipophillic or "fat-loving"
• Provides protection for the skin
• Is exposed to environmental stressors and pathogens plus daily wear and tear
• A healthy skin barrier is NEEDED to maintain healthy skin |
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