Your Skin Barrier & What Happens When You Apply Skincare Products
When new skincare products are introduced to the skin, a variety of biochemical and biological processes are set in motion.
Firstly, the outermost layer of the epidermis called the stratum corneum plays a major role in defending against external aggressors like bacteria and environmental pollutants. This layer is made up of cells that contain lipids and proteins, which form a protective barrier against transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and damage from UV radiation.
When applying a new skincare product, these lipids can be disrupted, leading to increased water loss and decreased ability of the skin to protect itself from external aggressors.
Additionally, some new skincare products may introduce compounds that are foreign to the skin's natural biochemistry, leading to an immune response that can cause inflammation or other symptoms such as breakouts or skin purging. Furthermore, certain active ingredients found in skincare products have been shown to penetrate into deeper layers of the skin where they can interact with cellular processes such as gene expression and enzyme activity. When introducing a new product into your routine, it is important to be aware that a variety of chemical and biological processes occur in order for them to be effective.
According to Dr. Melanie Plam, it takes 3-4 months for the skin to fully acclimate to a new product.
It takes about 28 days for our skin cells to cycle through. During this time, our skin is renewing itself by pushing out old cells and generating new ones.
To ensure that you get the best results from a particular product, it’s recommended that you use it consistently over the course of these 3-4 months while ensuring that you take proper care of your skin during this period. Doing so will help ensure that your new skincare product works appropriately and effectively for your skin type. And as always, listen to your skin and consider your skin’s intuition by evaluating the visible outcomes and internal feelings that come with applying your new skincare products. Your skin is like a living organism and it needs some time to adapt to any changes you make. That’s why it’s important to be patient and give your skin a break every now and then.
Is My Skin Purging Or Breaking Out?
Breakouts and skin purging are both forms of skin irritation, but there are key differences between the two. Breakouts occur when pores become blocked by dirt, oil and other debris, which leads to infection and inflammation. Skin purging occurs when an active ingredient in a new skincare product stimulates an increase in cell turnover rate on the skin’s surface which may lead to new clogged pores surfacing on the skin. Keep Reading
Skin Fasting & Why It’s Important
Skin fasting was first introduced by the Japanese brand Mirai Clinical. It is a beneficial practice for those looking to nurture and protect their skin. If your skin is feeling overwhelmed by all the new (or not-so-new) products and treatments, it’s time to take a break. Skin fasting helps the skin heal itself by taking a few days or weeks off from using creams, serums, and other skincare products so that your skin can reset itself and restore its natural balance. Keep Reading
The main thing to remember is that everyone’s skincare journey is different and it’s important to be patient with your skin. Everyone’s skin reacts differently, so keep in mind that finding the right products and practices for you will take some trial and error. Check in with your skin and tap into your skin’s intuition to see what works and what doesn’t. With consistency, dedication, and a little bit of TLC (tender loving care), you’ll find the ideal products and habits that will give you glowing, healthy skin.
