Balanced skin, is happy skin!

2022 was the year of active ingredients. The wildest combinations of active ingredients were demonstrated on TikTok and Instagram (and later tried out, of course). The result: While some have finally found the key to healthy and radiant skin, others have had to learn that not every product suits their own skin. Every skin is individual and that's wonderful! We're always at the forefront when it comes to beauty trends, but this year: Less is more. Anyone who has ever had their skin barrier destroyed knows how difficult it is to find the right products and active ingredients that make the skin shine again. The key to healthy skin is an intact skin barrier and today we will help you better understand the importance of the skin barrier and how to choose the right skin care. Let's glow!

What exactly is the skin protective barrier and what functions does it fulfill?

The skin barrier, also known as the skin barrier or lipid barrier, is the outermost layer of the skin. It consists of a complex mixture of lipids (fats), skin cells and moisturizing factors. The main functions of the skin barrier are protection against external influences, maintaining moisture balance and preventing the penetration of harmful substances. The skin protective barrier therefore forms a physical barrier that protects the skin from external influences. But only an intact barrier leads to radiant skin and sufficient protection.

What factors can affect the integrity of the skin barrier?

The integrity of the skin barrier can be influenced by various factors. This includes excessive washing with hot water and harsh cleansers, which can strip the skin's natural lipids and compromise its barrier function. Excessive sun exposure (Never Skip Sunscreen!) as well as cold and dry air can also affect skin health and lead to moisture loss. Last but not least, our environment, especially harmful particles and free radicals, can weaken the skin barrier and trigger inflammation. Our eating habits and stress can also have an impact on skin sensitivity. Skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea or atopic dermatitis can also compromise the integrity of the skin's protective barrier and lead to increased dryness, redness and irritation. If you are affected by these or similar skin diseases, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Why is it important to know your own skin type in order to find the right skin care and what skin types are there?

Each skin type has specific characteristics and needs, and using products that are not suitable for your skin type can cause problems. For example, people with dry skin need moisturizing products that provide the skin with intensive moisture and strengthen the barrier function. Sensitive skin requires particularly gentle products to avoid irritation and redness. By knowing your skin type, you can select products that meet your specific needs and help strengthen the skin's protective barrier and promote skin health . There are different skin types and they are often classified according to the characteristics of the skin. Here are some of the most common skin types and how they differ from each other:

• Normal Skin: Normal skin has a balanced mix of moisture and oil production. It is not prone to excessive dryness, excessive shine or greasiness. The pores are usually visible but not enlarged.
  
  
• Dry skin: Dry skin tends to retain little moisture and can therefore often feel dry, flaky and rough. The pores are usually fine and the skin can appear dull. Dry skin also tends to be more sensitive and more prone to irritation.
  
  
• Oily Skin: Oily skin produces more sebum than normal, which can result in a shiny or “greasy” appearance. Pores are often enlarged, and oily skin is more prone to blackheads, acne and blemishes.
  
• Combination Skin: Combination skin is a combination of oily and dry areas. Often the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) is oilier, while the cheeks can be more dry. Combination skin requires balanced care to take into account both dry and oily areas.
  
  
• Sensitive skin: Sensitive skin reacts easily to external stimuli and may be prone to redness, itching and irritation. It can have different characteristics, such as dry or oily skin.

It's easy to find out your skin type: Wash your face with a mild cleansing gel of your choice (we recommend a cleansing oil). Then gently pat your skin with a towel. Please do not rub as this can affect sebum production. Then observe your skin without applying anything. Give it 30-60 minutes and then assess how your skin feels.

Oily areas often appear after a short time - the forehead, nose or chin (T-zone) are particularly susceptible. Areas that leave a feeling of tightness or flaking are dry. This way you can easily determine your “skin type”. However, your skin type is constantly changing. Environment, diet, stress and hormones not only affect the body, but also your skin. Reason enough to give her some love. In order to find the right product for your skin, we have developed a skin quiz for you that determines the optimal gloowy products for your skin needs. Try it out → Skin Quiz