Skin Perfection Series: The Lipid Barrier

Did you know that healthy barrier function is perhaps one of the most important aspects of skin health and aging?

According to medical skin experts, optimal skin health reflects the following key elements:

Healthy Barrier Function
Flexibility and Strength
Even Color
Good Circulation
Hydration
“Bounceback”

As our skin's first line of defense to the outside world, the outer layer of skin, the Stratum Corneum (CF), is a protective, waterproof shield consisting of dead, protein-rich skin cells containing Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) which help bind water to the cells. Surrounding these cells are lipids such as ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acid. Together this protective matrix of protein, water, and oil function to prevent water evaporating from the skin and from external threats and irritants entering our skin. If our barrier has been impaired by over washing, exfoliating, harsh ingredients, excessively hot showers or neglect, we are vulnerable to invasion of pathogens, environmental pollutants including chemicals, heavy metals, EMF's and other sources of damaging particles.

Do you ever wake up feeling on top of the world, look in the mirror and think, "WOW!! My skin looks AMAZING!!" BEST. FEELING. EVER!! Wouldn't you agree?! I wish this for everyone. From personal experience, I know how debilitating skin problems can be. In my early 20's, I dealt with painful cystic acne that kept joy, freedom, and inspiration at arms length. All I could think about was how much I hated my skin. Luckily, it cleared within 6 months, but I will never forget how self conscious and unlovable I felt.

This is why I've devoted my life's work to helping others achieve skin that reflects vitality and well-being. Because when we are healthy on the inside, our skin radiates health on the outside. I call this Complexion Perfection. And that is something we can all strive for.