Protecting your skin from cold, harsh winters, pollution, and other sources of irritation can be challenging, especially if you don't know which product to use.
Finding the time to start a skincare routine is hard enough, but you also need a product that will protect your skin from everyday irritants.
What kind of moisturizer should you use? What about a barrier cream?
We've got you covered. This article will discuss barrier creams and how to use them properly. We also included the six best barrier creams!
Related: Home Remedies for Dry Skin: Lifestyle Changes for Prevention
What Are Barrier Creams?
Barrier creams are a type of specialized skincare that protects skin from irritants, allergens, and other potentially harmful substances. Barrier creams work to support the functioning of the skin barrier, which support's skin's own ability to keep irritants out, and moisture in.
However, they can also benefit people with sensitive skin or who suffer from conditions like eczema.
Suppose you are considering using a barrier cream. In that case, choosing one suitable for your skin type is essential, providing adequate protection against the kinds of substances you will be coming into contact with.
Are you struggling with eczema? We have the right product for you!
What Are the Benefits of Barrier Creams?
If you're already using barrier creams, you may already know the benefits. But if not, the following are the benefits you'll experience if you add a barrier cream to your routine.
Hydration & Reduction of Transdermal Water Loss
Dehydrated skin can lead to wrinkles, dullness, and a loss of elasticity. Barrier creams help to lock in moisture and prevent transdermal water loss. This is important because hydration is essential for healthy skin.
Protection From External Irritants
Barrier creams help protect the skin from external irritants. Also, it helps protect the skin from everyday exposure to pollution and damaging UV rays. Lastly, barrier cream is a preventative measure against harsh weather conditions or chemicals.
Protect the Moisture Barrier
The cream forms a barrier on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and preventing environmental aggressors. It creates a physical barrier on the skin's surface that prevents water loss and keeps irritants and allergens out.
Are Barrier Creams the Same As Moisturizers?
You might wonder if a barrier cream is the same as a moisturizer. The answer is: not exactly. Both products are designed to hydrate and protect the skin, but work differently.
A moisturizer hydrates the outer layer of the skin, while barrier creams restore the skin barrier itself. Barrier creams repair damaged skin, allow the skin to heal itself. Barrier creams are more than just a thick, emollient layer.
Who Needs To Use a Barrier Cream?
Barrier creams can be beneficial for anyone who wants to protect their skin but they are especially helpful for those suffering from chronic skin conditions such as eczema.
What Ingredients Make Up a Good Barrier Cream?
A good barrier cream should have a few key ingredients to be effective. First, it should contain an emollient, which helps to moisturize and protect the skin.
Secondly, barrier creams need ingredients that repair damaged skin, and support skin health, such as ceramides, glycerin, vitamin E and shea butter.
Related: 5 Ingredients to Avoid for Sensitive Skin
The 6 Best Barrier Creams
As promised, here are the six best barrier creams:
1. GIMME MORE: Rich pH-Correcting Barrier Cream
Are you looking for a deep moisturizing cream that will restore your skin's pH level? Look no further than Soterskin's GIMME MORE: pH-Correcting barrier cream. Anyone who wants to reduce flare-ups and sensitivity over time will enjoy this rich and creamy formula.
Keeping your skin's pH level in check will help it stay happy and healthy. Nourish your skin with our potent yet non-irritating ingredients and enjoy long-lasting results.
2. Skinfix Barrier+ Skin Barrier Niacinamide Restoring Gel Cream
Skinfix Barrier+ Skin Barrier Niacinamide Restoring Gel Cream is excellent for those who need help with acne and blemishes. A gel cream with unique ingredients nourishes your skin's barrier. It's suitable for dryness and can help with hydration.
3. Eczema Honey Skin-Soothing Cream
Eczema Honey soothing cream is perfect for those with dry, irritable skin. Their unique blend of colloidal oatmeal and organic honey helps to soothe and protect skin susceptible to eczema and other rashes. In addition, it provides much-needed relief from itchiness and irritation by creating a barrier between your skin and the outside world.
4. Great Barrier Relief: Skin-Soothing Serum
The Great Barrier Relief is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including tamanu oil and ceramides, that work together to calm and nourish the skin. This unique serum can be used independently or as part of your regular skincare routine. The downside is it's small and only meant to be used for your face, not your entire body.
5. CeraVe Face and Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe face and moisturizing cream provide long-lasting hydration for dry skin. This rich, velvety cream contains hyaluronic acid to leave your skin feeling smooth and comfortable. It's perfect for all skin types, including susceptible skin.
6. ULTRA REPAIR CREAM INTENSE HYDRATION
Those with dry or sensitive skin or who experience eczema flare-ups may find Ultra Repair Cream their best choice for barrier cream. Dry, distressed skin, particularly eczema, can benefit from this hydrating moisturizer.
How To Use Barrier Creams
The best way to use barrier cream is to know how to use it. So here's a quick guide to using barrier creams effectively:
- Identify your skin type before choosing a product. With sensitive skin, look for a hypoallergenic cream that won't clog pores or cause irritation. Look for a cream rich in emollients and hydrating ingredients for dry skin.
- Apply the cream to clean, dry skin. Cover all exposed areas, including the face, hands, and feet. If outdoors, re-apply the cream every few hours for maximum protection.
- Don't forget to wash your hands after applying the cream. This will help to prevent accidentally transferring the barrier cream to your eyes or mouth.
These tips will help you protect your skin from the elements with barrier creams.
How To Choose the Best Barrier Cream for You
When trying to find the right barrier cream for your skin, you should keep a few things to remember. First, consider you're daily activities when wearing the cream. Will you be applying make-up? Our BALANCING ACT works as a primer and sits well under make-up.
Second, think about your skin type. Sensitive skin should look for a fragrance-free cream that won't clog pores.
Finally, pay attention to ingredients. Some barrier creams contain ingredients that provide additional benefits, such as sun protection or moisturization.
Related: How to Repair and Restore a Damaged Skin Barrier
When Should You Apply Your Barrier Cream
In general, it's best to apply barrier cream before you anticipate coming into contact with irritants. For example, using barrier cream before you head out can help protect your skin from environmental aggressors if you spend time outdoors.
Alternatively, applying barrier cream regularly can help prevent your skin from becoming dry and irritated if you're doing a lot of hand-washing. Ultimately, the key is experimenting and seeing what works best for you.
Enjoy the Benefits of Barrier Creams
Overall, barrier creams are an effective way to protect your skin. Regular use over time will reduce skin flare-ups and sensitivity, so make sure you maintain your skincare routine.