What is a skin barrier?
The skin barrier is located in the outermost layer of the skin, also known as the horn layer of the skin's cultivated layer. This layer plays a role in preventing dehydration, while protecting the skin from harmful environmental agents such as bacteria, irritants and allergens.
In winter, low humidity, cold air and the use of domestic heating systems make the already weak skin barrier. When combined with regular hot showers, this condition becomes more serious.
How does hot bathing harm the skin's barrier?
According to Dr. Ruben Bhasin Passi, consultant dermatologist at CK Birla Hospital (Gurugram, India), hot water is able to wash away the natural oils on the skin faster than warm water. This layer of oil is essential for maintaining skin moisture, elasticity and health. When the protective lipid layer is lost, the skin can easily become dry, tight, itchy and red.
Hot showers provide a temporary feeling of well-being but lose essential fats from the skin, says Dr. Passi. In the long run, the skin's barrier is weakened, making it drier, more sensitive and more prone to irritation.
Specifically, hot water can cause:
Increased dehydration through the skin's mua outfit (TEWL)
Breaking the skin's natural oils
aggravate skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea
Make skin more sensitive to soap, cosmetics and cold air
Why does winter make skin problems worse?
During the cold season, the activity of the sebum gland decreases, which means that the skin produces less oil to protect itself. When this already small layer of oil continues to be removed by hot showers or using strong soap, the skin will have a hard time recovering.
Many people use strong cleansers to feel cleaner, but this actually causes the skin to lose its natural moisture, making it dry and more prone to irritation.
Signs of damaged skin barrier
If the skin barrier is affected, you may notice:
Dry skin continues despite moisturization
Feeling burning after bathing
Itching, redness or peeling
The acne when applying skin care products
These are signs that your skin needs to restore its protective barrier as soon as possible, Dr. Passi emphasized.
How to shower safely in winter
You do not need to completely give up bathing in lotus hoses in winter, but just need to adjust the habit:
Use warm water instead of water that is too hot
Limit the shower time to 510 minutes
Choose a mild shower gel that is non-soupy and has a balanced pH
Dry your skin by absorbing gently, without scratching
Apply a thick moisturizer for 3 minutes after bathing
Products containing ceramide, glycerin and hyaluronic acid are especially effective in restoring the skin's barrier in winter.
Note
Hot showers in winter, although they bring a pleasant feeling, can weaken the skin barrier if maintained regularly. Experts recommend switching to using warm water, shortening bathing time and moisturizing properly to keep the skin healthy and supple throughout the cold season.
