2023: The Year of the Barrier

2023: The Year of the Barrier

As we enter the new year, it's clear that 2023 is shaping up to be the year of the skin barrier. With an increased focus on skincare and a greater understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy skin barrier, it's no surprise that this will be a major trend in the coming year.

For those who may not be familiar, the skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, which serves as a protective barrier against the outside world. It's made up of a complex network of lipids (fats) and proteins that work together to keep moisture in and irritants out. When the skin barrier is functioning properly, it helps to keep the skin hydrated, smooth, and healthy.

However, when the skin barrier is damaged or impaired, it can lead to a variety of skin issues, including dryness, sensitivity, and irritation. This is why it's so important to take care of the skin barrier, and why it will be a major focus in 2023.

So, what can we expect in the year of the skin barrier? Here are a few predictions:

  • A greater emphasis on ingredients that support the skin barrier: Look for skincare products that contain ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol, as these help to strengthen and repair the skin barrier.

  • An increase in "barrier-friendly" skincare routines: In the past, it was common to follow a harsh, stripping skincare routine in an effort to achieve clear skin. However, this can actually damage the skin barrier and lead to more issues in the long run. Instead, expect to see a shift towards gentler, more barrier-friendly routines that prioritize hydration and nourishment.

  • A rise in "barrier-boosting" treatments: From facial treatments to at-home devices, there will be an increase in products and services that are specifically designed to support and strengthen the skin barrier.

  • A focus on preventative skincare: Instead of waiting for skin issues to arise and then trying to fix them, expect to see a shift towards preventative skincare in 2023. This means taking care of the skin barrier from the start, to help prevent issues from occurring in the first place.

In conclusion, 2023 is shaping up to be the year of the skin barrier, with a greater focus on maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing issues before they occur. By prioritizing ingredients that support the skin barrier, adopting gentle, nourishing skincare routines, and taking a preventative approach to skincare, we can all help to keep our skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing throughout the year.

Haftek M, Roy DC, Liao IC. ARTICLE: Evolution of Skin Barrier Science for Healthy and Compromised Skin. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 Apr 1;20(4):s3-s9. doi: 10.36849/JDD.2021.589a. PMID: 33852254.

Rosso JD, Zeichner J, Alexis A, Cohen D, Berson D. Understanding the Epidermal Barrier in Healthy and Compromised Skin: Clinically Relevant Information for the Dermatology Practitioner: Proceedings of an Expert Panel Roundtable Meeting. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016 Apr;9(4 Suppl 1):S2-S8. Epub 2016 Apr 1. PMID: 28936279; PMCID: PMC5608132.

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