Over the years I have learned that frequent body movement, hydration, a clean diet, gentle yet simple skin care, and stress management play a huge role in the health and clarity of our skin. However, there was one very important piece of this puzzle missing – barrier repair!
You may be wondering what the heck barrier repair is so let me try to explain something called the stratum corneum and skin barrier function.
In essence, skin barrier function is a concept that refers to the outer most layer of the skin, aka the stratum corneum. This layer is the barrier that protects the body from the external environment and is designed to hold water in and keep bacteria, microbes, and other external invaders out.
The strength and integrity of this barrier not only keeps our skin looking healthy and moisturized, it also plays a role in its clarity.
The Structure of The Stratum Corneum
A cross-section of the stratum corneum would look like a brick wall in the sense that dead skin cells form the “bricks” and the intercellular matrix (the lipids and fatty acids – aka sebum) make up the mortar.
These waterproofing lipids are what keep skin hydrated, soft, and firm in appearance by preventing the evaporation of the water it absorbs from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin. It holds the water in and keeps bacteria (including acne bacteria!) and other impurities out.
Now imagine cracks and holes forming in the mortar and allowing water to evaporate and escape. This is when the stratum corneum becomes compromised and barrier repair is needed in order to prevent dehydration and bacteria from getting into the cracks.
Believe it or not, the skin uses its own natural exfoliation process known as desquamation. This is where fresh skin cells migrate from the bottom layer of the epidermis to the outer most layer of the skin. This process is wholly dependent on adequate hydration, so when this process gets disrupted, the skin becomes rough, scaly, and dry in appearance.
If the outer most barrier isn’t repaired, the skin becomes dehydrated (even if you have oily skin) and begins to tighten and hold onto dead skin cells. This is what causes clogged pores. When bacteria are added to the mix, your body reacts by attacking those bacteria and forming a legion of inflammation. The resulting acne can stick around even if you follow every other natural skincare tip I’ve previously mentioned.
So, if you have overhauled your lifestyle and still have acne, chances are you have a damaged outer most skin barrier.
Common Signs of Barrier Damage
Many skin conditions can be exacerbated or even caused by a damaged stratum corneum.
Some of these conditions include:
• Acne
• Dermatitis
• Dry skin
• Eczema
• Flaky skin
• Inflammation
• Itchiness
• Premature aging
• Psoriasis
• Redness
• Rosacea
• Scaly skin
• Sensitive skin
• Tightness
It is thought that over 70% of people who suffer from acne have some degree of damage to their outer most barrier.
Even those with oily skin can have dehydrated skin, so don’t be fooled by oily skin and hydration levels! ANY skin type can become dehydrated because the outer most barrier has been altered causing it to lose its ability to retain moisture.
So, What Causes a Damaged Barrier to Begin With?
There are several reasons why your outer most barrier may begin to deteriorate:
1. Constantly stripping away sebum
2. Cumulative damage that has affected the skin cell renewal cycle
3. Environmental conditions like dry, cold or hot weather, and wind
4. Not enough physical exercise
5. Not enough sleep
6. Nutritional deficiencies
7. Over-exfoliation
8. Over-washing your face
9. Poor diet high in processed foods and sugar
10. Stress
11. Sun damage
12. Unprotected winter skin
13. Using harsh products on your skin
14. Using hot water when washing and rinsing your face
15. Using too many chemicals on your skin
Experiencing any of the above for too long can start to alter the structures within the skin that are responsible for moisture retention and balance.
These structures include:
• Acid mantle
• Epidermal lipids
• Glycosaminoglycans (GAGS)
• Lymph movement or stagnation
• Natural moisturizing factors (NMFs)
• Sebaceous lipids
• Trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)
Barrier Repair and The Recipe for Re-Hydration
So, all this information tells us that we need to achieve balanced hydration within our skin cells in order to repair the outer most skin barrier.
The first steps you want to take are things like lowering stress, getting quality sleep, exercising regularly, drinking enough water daily, and eating a clean healthy diet.
While improving those aspects of your life, you should begin taking steps towards improving your skincare routine like using cooler water to wash and rinse, switching to a gentle cleanser, avoiding harsh exfoliants, and allowing your skin to recover its hydration levels.
The worst thing you can do is use hot water or steam on your face, washing too often, stripping your skin’s oils, or scrubbing your skin too often. All this will do is dry out, strip, and damage the outer most barrier making it harder for your skin to hold onto water.
Harsh chemicals in your face/beauty products can weaken and strip the skin and cause irritation and deterioration of the lipid layer.
Using harsh exfoliants can actually scratch open the skin (microscopically) and allow water to evaporate.
Also, don’t forget to wear sunscreen if you plan on being out in the sun longer than 20 minutes as sunlight can damage the lipid layer as well.
Ingredients for Good Skin Hydration
Aside from the above, here are a few things to look into for quickly repairing your barrier:
1. Barrier restoring ingredients
Lipids are excellent ingredients to use as they tend to mimic those found in the stratum corneum. The best ones to use are those that contain ceramides and are rich in linoleic acid such as baobab, evening primrose, rose hip seed oil, safflower oil (high linoleic acid), shea butter, and sunflower oil (high linoleic acid).
2. Humectants
Humectants are absolutely essential for repairing the outer most barrier as they attract water from deep below the epidermis as well as from humidity in our environment. This moisture is drawn into the stratum corneum where it holds in moisture and repairs the skin.
Some of the best humectants include glycerin, honey (works great as a face wash!), lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA).
Be sure to avoid synthetic humectants like:
• Polyethylene glycol (PEGs) – a petroleum byproduct that dries out the skin over time
• Propylene glycol – the synthetic version of glycerin, also a petroleum byproduct known to irritate the skin
• Urea – a preservative that releases formaldehyde; a known carcinogen that can cause dermatitis (there is naturally occurring urea in the skin which is part of the natural moisturizing factor of the skin or NMF)
3. Skin identical ingredients
Using ingredients like copper peptides, lactic acid, and PCA will help restore the acid mantle and balance the skin’s natural moisturizing factor.
I especially love to use homemade rose water to help restore proper PH and prepare the skin for humectants and hydration sealing ingredients.
4. Skin protectants – aka occlusives
Ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, sunflower oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, squalene, macadamia nut oil, evening primrose oil, and baobab oil are all wonderful emollients and are rich in phytosterols that heal and buffer the skin against dehydration.
Using skin protectants will help keep your skin soft, supple, and firm in appearance.
Skin Re-Hydration Protocol for Barrier Repair
So far, we’ve learned that the key to good skin hydration is based on the following:
1. Humidity in your environment
2. The moisture retention strength of the stratum corneum
3. The amount of water in the skin that is transferred and retained in the stratum corneum
In order to achieve these three things, here’s what you need to do:
1. Use cool-tepid water only when washing and rinsing your face
2. Use a natural non-stripping face wash no more than twice daily (raw honey works great for this)
3. Pat your face dry, then spritz on rose water
4. Next, apply a humectant like hyaluronic acid or glycerin (in concentration of no more than 10% or you will end up pulling moisture OUT of the skin)
5. Next, apply a linoleic rich facial oil like rosehip seed oil and gently massage it into the skin
6. You can then apply a skin protectant like a small amount of shea butter (unless you have oily skin then use a tiny amount of squalene mixed in your facial oil) to help hold in moisture that tries to escape
7. Occasionally mist your skin with rose water throughout the day
8. Drink plenty of water throughout the day
9. Make sure your environment has good humidity (I like to use this humidifier in my room at night)
10. Lead a healthy lifestyle
So, there you have it! Do you suffer from an impaired outer most skin barrier? What have been your barrier repair breakthroughs? Please let me know in the comments!
You also enjoy reading:
12 Ways to Treat Acne Inside and Out
The 7 Step Routine You Need to Get Clear Skin
3 Steps to Improve your Female Hormonal Acne – Anyone Can do It!
Essential Oils for Acne Prone Skin
Thyme Serum for Acne Free Skin
Galit Kadashev says
Hello, Tash!
I really feel like my skin is dehydrated. I am using OCM and I see you are not recommending using hot water for dehydrated skin. So how does it work with a hot washcloth for OCM?
Tash says
I just use room temperature water. it isn't ideal for the method but it's better than further dehydrating the skin.
Sam says
Hi Tash,
My barrier is severely damaged after too much sun exposure and improper skincare. I see you’re suggesting a moisturizer with cholesterol in many of the comments. Would this be applied before, after, or instead of a facial oil? Does it substitute for something like shea butter? Just wondering about the specific order to layer after cleansing and using rose water toner.
Thanks!
Beka says
Hi so I damaged my skin barrier really bad, i went in to see a esthetician last year for random cysts on my face (I normally don’t get acne) she ended up giving me a mild chemical peel and then I gotten a microdermabrasion right after, my skin on my forehead became itchy wrinkly red for a few months, I went to see a derm and she gave me elidel I used it and it worked for a bit I got off it and everything came back, then I went to see someone else in Cali, they told me in order to repair my skin they needed to damaged it, so they ended up doing a clear+brilliant, laser genesis, prp and mocroneedling, after all that I ended up getting contact dermatitis on my cheeks and a bit on my forehead. All of my products stopped working and I had to try different ones for 2 months after several chemical burns I got prescriptions for eucrisa and epiceram, my skin reacts to using things like Shea butter coconut oil borage seed, Argan etc, I’m wondering what can I use to rebuild my barrier, is the epiceram enough to repair it? I’m getting little bumps like black heads and don’t know how to get rid of them while trying to repair my barrier . Please help
Nini Munoz says
Hi there!
Can you recommend some good cleansers for normal/combo (slightly oily but very surface dry) skin than can help clean without stripping?
Also, if the HA should be less than 10%, what does that mean? I hear it can be max 2% in concentration? What are some recommended HA serums that don't exceed 10% in concentration? Is it 10% of a concentration of 2%, ie: .2% ?
Suse says
Omg, this finally explains it all! The most informative article I’ve seen. Now I truly understand the way skin functions. I totally ruined my skin barrier. Mostly from using/scrubbing my face with Clearasil acne pads. Thinking I was thoroughly cleaning and clearing pores. Just aggravated my skin and led to acne in my cheeks especially. Almost rid of the those and have switched to fragrance free, non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers by CeraVe and Cetaphil. Now cleanse with Argan or hempseed oil as they have a zero comedogenic rating.
One question; I have what looks like little patches of white in my cheeks. I’m convinced it’s trapped sebum. It’s bizzare. Help.
Thank you so very much. Will be reading your info dilengtly.
Nini says
Hi Tash,
On average, how long does the barrier repair process take (could it be years?). Also, how do you know when you "get there"?
Emma says
Hello Tash,
This is a great article. What should be used as a humectant if you live in a dry climate? Also what do you mean by a concentration of no more that 10%?
Thank you!
Amy Stocking says
IHi Tash,
I have been struggling with dryness on the skin just around the edges of my mouth and my lips since last July 2018.
I tried lots of lip balms and lip moisturisers thinking it was just chapped lips.
Then went to to doctors and was diagnosed as having Perioral Dermatitis. Was a bit sceptical as I don’t have the pustules and it hasn’t spread to any other areas of my face. It is just persistent scaly dryness around the edges of my mouth and dryness on my lips.
On doctors recommendation I tried 50:50 ointment on the skin around my mouth for 6 weeks which didn’t do anything,
Then had a month of antibiotics.
Still no improvement.
Have been reading your article about barrier repair with interest as I believe it is a broken skin barrier.
I have been using the following layered approach:
Using cool water to wash face
Pat dry
Spritz of rosewater
Apply manuka honey on lips and mouth for a little while before gently washing off
Evening primrose oil gently massaged into lips and skin around the mouth
Once soaked in am then applying Welleda Skin Food to the skin around my mouth.
Is there anything I should be doing differently? As my lips are involved I was wondering if different rules apply? I am being very gentle.
My problem is is that at work I run 2 hour classes in the morning and am finding that as I am doing a lot of talking my lips dry out very quickly. I can’t just stop and start applying lots of things to my face. It is my lips that dry out first and go flaky and then the skin around my lips starts to dry and flake. This has improved a little bit with my new barrier repair routine so am hoping to will continue to improve. I have been doing to for a couple of days.
Is there any product you would advise I could put on my lips which could potentially give me long lasting hydration and protection whilst I am running my classes?
I have been reading about La Roche Posay Cicaplast Lips which is supposed to be a long lasting deeply moisturising lip balm that is also suitable for children.
These are the ingredients:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PPG-5 Pentaerythritylether, PEG-5 Pentaerythritylether, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Cera Alba/Beeswax, Panthenol, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Ethylhexylpalmitate, Silica Silylate, Polybutene, Glycine Soja/Soybean Sterols, Aqua/Water, Sodium Saccharin, Myristyl Malate Phosphonic Acid, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl, Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
What do you think? Or could you recommend an alternative option for my lips?
Thank you so much for all your posts. It was clear and easy to understand, made a lot of sense to me and so far the products I have been using have felt very gentle and soothing. I just hope the improvement continues so I know my barrier is getting better!
Amy x
Tash says
Hi Amy!
So sorry to hear about your struggles! It sounds like you are on the right track. repairing the barrier can take quite a while depending on your skin's condition. As for the lip balm you mentioned, it's relatively low on the "bad ingredients" scale. If you want to try the balm, I say go for it and see how it goes. Perhaps try it on a small area first to see how your skin reacts and if it seems fine, go ahead and use it on a larger area. The key is consistency 🙂 I hope everything works out!
Amy Stocking says
Thank you for your reply and for looking over the ingredients for that lip balm! I have been trying coconut oil on my lips but am finding I am having to re-apply it quite often. I think the air in the buildings that I work in is very dry which doesn’t help.
I might try the lip balm at some point to see if it is longer lasting but like you say consistency is the key so don’t want to keep changing what I am using. I might try the coconut oil for a week and then maybe consider the lip balm...
Nini says
Your blog has been one of the most informative blogs I have ever read, so thank you! About 9 months ago I was introduced to the regime of rosewater/HA/face butter by a local esthi. This released tons of congestions, while causing minimal breakouts - interestingly. However, it got pricey and my skin was having a hard time exfoliating due to the face butter...so now I am on my own, trying to balance the oil and water content- my main concern are that my pores seem to be somewhat dehydrated, and so there are bits of sebum lining the pores around the mouth- even though my skin is only slightly oily-normal combo. Currently, I extract these these sebum plugs, but I do feel I lack a good moisturizer. Can you recommend the types of oils that might help lubricate the pores as well as a good non-comedogenic, somewhat occlusive moisturizer that might help. I get plugged pores, not inflammatory acne.
Tash says
Hi Nini!
I feel ya! I am currently using a cream called Hyggee all in one cream that has been working pretty well for my skin. The only downside is it smells like fruity pebbles =/ However, it contains cholesterol and a good amount of moisture which I find works a bit better for my skin than oil alone. You may want to look into it! It's definitely less greasy than skin food by Weleda. As for oils, a couple occlusive ones I can think of is olive oil and macadamia nut oil. You can also look into wax esters like lanolin 🙂
shelah Layton says
What do you think about using grass-fed whipped tallow along with infused herbs? Would that help or no? I’ve read that tallow is closer to our own cellular structure and thus deeply nourishing, but then I read other conflicting things that tallow should never be on the skin. Whats your opinion? Thx!
Tash says
I personally think tallow on the skin is great! It CAN be a bit greasy, but there's nothing quite like it as far as good moisture goes!
Cheryl says
HI! I am trying all of your suggestions. I am going with out makeup for a few days to try and heal. Any suggestions on some non irritating bb creams or foundations? Do you have any other feedback on "purge"? I am one day in and have some redness, but no itch or irritation. Hoping my skin is recovering. Thanks!
Megan Casey says
Hello!
Thank you so much for this post! I'm not sure if I specifically damaged my skin barrier, but I do think the past 10 years (I'm 28) of using products like benzyl peroxide, differn, Retin-A have taking a huge toll on my skin as it is always pink-red, and my T-zone is covered with huge pores. After trying BHA and using the clearasonic and having 2 microdermabrasion treatments recently, I decided to stop exfoliants for a while.
My new routine is just Cera-ve cleanser, Rose Water, Hyaluronic acid, and Squalane. I'm noticing that my pores are even bigger and exposed. It's really hard not to turn to an exfoliant because my skin feels bumpy and so clogged. I'm wondering if this is a situation of "it gets worse before it gets better" and if I should just wait it out for the ultimate benefit of restoring my skin barrier. Or, can I use a gentle exfoliant like sugar once a week to keep the extreme clogged pores at bay?
Thank you for any insight on this!!! I appreciate your site so much 🙂
Tash says
Hi Megan!
Do you by chance live in a low humidity area?
Krissy says
I've been dealing with subaceous hyperplasia for the last couple of years and have tried everything to get rid of it. But, simultaneously, I've damaged my barrier. What can I use that is not too oily, but still helps with cell turnover?
Tash says
Hi Krissy!
That's the tough part! Most of the moisturizers that contain the ceramides and cholesterol your skin needs in order to repair its barrier are a bit greasy. The key is to use just a tiny amount. I will usually spritz my face with rose water first and then apply a small amount of cream during the day. At night, I use more and give my skin enough time before bed to absorb the moisture as much as possible before bed. Weleda's SKin Food is pretty decent for an all-natural product, otherwise, Hyggee has been good so far though a little less natural. You can find them both on Amazon! As for exfoliation, I would use a VERY gentle scrub once a week in the shower. Really, you're supposed to avoid exfoliation during the repair process since it can create tiny scratches and tears in the skin which will cause it to lose water.
Ramaseva says
Wow! I am so glad that i found a page that actually has a soul. ? Your information is quite amazing. I could really use your help in trying to figure out what exactly my skin's going through. I have had acne for over ten years and am still suffering from it. I am 19 years old and i used to have oily skin. But all of a sudden when i decided to take my friend's advice to purchase an antibacterial soap, i started experiencing dry and flaky skin. I decided to halt the usage of the soap but my skin never stopped drying out. Ever since then, i have been suffering from dry, itchy skin. Just when i thought things couldn't get worse, my skin started becoming extremely sensitive to almost anything that was applied to it, soaps, cleansers, masks etc. They would make my skim burn and blister. I decided to start using organic stuff like oats, honey etc. My skin has been reacting a little better, however, it still seems sensitive. I am so disturbed and insecure because of my face condition. One of my friends told me that my skin barrier could be damaged and that was how i came across this page. Please, is my skin's shield really damaged? I just don't know what to use on my face anymore. I saw a YouTuber who stated that using organic stuff for damaged skin barrier is not recommended. Please help me.
Tash says
Hi Ramaseva!
It does sound like your skin barrier is damaged 🙁 This is where skincare can get a bit tricky! It is harder to treat a damaged barrier using straight-up natural ingredients. I have found that Weleda's Skin Food cream to work pretty well, though it is very greasy if you use too much. Also, avoid scrubbing your skin or using hot water on it. Be sure to apply moisture as soon as you can after cleansing as well.
Belle says
Amazing post! Very informative. 🙂 Well done! Could you please clarify whether safflower, evening primrose, sunflower oils contain ceramides or if they stimulate the production because they're high in linoleic acid. If it's the latter, cacay oil is also said to rank quite highly. Many thanks!
Tash says
Hi Belle!
Yes! Those oils do contain ceramides, or at least the pre-cursors 🙂 I'm actually not sure if it is specifically because they contain higher amounts of linoleic acid. I think it may be because they contain more sphingolipids which are precursors that stimulate the production of ceramides in the skin.
Sreesha says
Hey, I'm 15 year old girl i use skinlite cream cream since almost 1 week ,now my skin increased pimple day by day and its redness too ,and I feel embrace towards my friends ,what can I do for skin repair,plzzz suggest me some tips,I beg you.......
Tash says
Hi Sreesha!
Skinlite can cause issues for those with sensitive skin and I hear that it should not be used too often. Can you explain more to me about your skin type and its condition?
Deep says
Hello, i over exfoliated my face with sugar and lemon and next day i wash my face with cleanser with salicylic acid and top of it i got steam for my face. So in the end i think i damaged my skin with over exfoliatation. Now its been 25 days, my face is experiencing burning sensation all the time, whenever i put something on my face it starts burning or stinging and sometimes itching too. I have tried coconut oil for so many days but it didnt work. So what you think? What happened to my face? Did i damage my skin barrier? And what should i use? Right now i am using Cerave hydrating cleanser and Cerave cream that comes with ceramides. Will these products work or not? Please help me. I am in so much pain from last 25 days. I just read that usually it takes 2 weeks to get repaired damaged skin barrier but mine havent got repaired yet as its already 25 days. Why?
Tash says
Hi Deep!
It definitely sounds like your barrier is damaged. I would keep water exposure and make-up use to a minimum and make sure to keep your skin out of direct sunlight unless you are using a good sunscreen. Those moisturizers should help. You may also want to use rose water. Spritz it on your face before applying your moisturizer to help get more moisture into the skin and decrease drag when applying lotions. The key here is to leave your skin alone as much as possible, so don't scrub it and don't let it dry out, especially after any type of cleansing. Be sure not to use stripping cleansers. I like microfiber cloths because they clean well without any soap.
I hope this helps!
Deep says
I have homemade rose water, i made it with boiling the rose petals in water, so should i use that homemade rose water? And will this rose water good for my damaged skin barrier i mean doesnt it worse my already damaged barrier?
Nixie Knox says
Great info here! I read about the whole moisture barrier issue on acne.org. The comment where it was mentioned sent me searching and here I am! I am going to implement this routine and see what happens. I have been using yogurt as a mask about once a week and this seems to be helping the moisture, also an egg on my face in the morning, and I found a cleanser which is more of a lotion than a foaming soap. Gonna try to get my face back!
Tash says
Nest of luck Nixie! <3 The process can take some time, but I hope your skin bounces back soon!
Karen says
Hello Tash, thank You so much for the article!! U r so right on dehydration skin having clogged pores and dead skin built up. That’s one of the most challenging things I found as in how I can exfoliate when I have dehydrated and sensitive skin. i have tried eve lom cleansing balm with Muslin cloth or enzyme peel, but I duno if I should use them provided my barrier is probably damaged alread. But then not doing any exfoliation makes me feel like the dead skin is building up. What should I do? 🙁 thanks very much!!
Tash says
Hi Karen!
I feel your pain! It is difficult to get the hydration back in your skin. What you may find helpful to use is evening primrose oil, hyaluronic acid, rose water, and believe it or not, shea butter. Each of these provides a specific function for restoring the skin's barrier. The only downside is that the shea butter is heavy. I combat this by spritzing my face with rose water, then using a really tiny amount of shea butter on my face after I have applied a drop of evening primrose oil mixed with a drop of hyaluronic acid. Do this twice daily. You can blot your skin if needed during the day. You may want to keep the exfoliation to a minimum if you can. otherwise, you can use your favorite carrier oil with a little bit of sugar to help VERY GENTLY remove some of the build-up but this should not be used often.
I hope this helps!
David says
Hi!
If i use the Honey as a cleanser, should i leave it on as a mask also during the time i try to repair it? And if you think its good to do it how many times a week is good to leave it on as a mask? Have read you can leave it on for 5-10 min as a deep cleanse but don’t know if i can do it during the time i want to heal my barrier :). Kind regards.
Tash says
Hi David!
I like to use manuka honey for cleansing and masking since it has more medicinal qualities. So far, at least for me personally, it has been great during repair, but everyone is different. For now, I would perhaps just focusing on using it as a cleanser. Once you have regained some barrier health, you could use it as a mask for short periods of time if desired. Again, it is all about paying attention to your skin and seeing how it feels. 🙂
David says
Hi again
Alright so if i feel that my skin got better and healthier can i then leave it on for a mask 2-3 a week if my skin accept it or should i go for a everyday leave on mask for a short period around 1-2 weeks? Kind regards.
Isabel Pieterse says
Thank you for your article. I would like to however bring under your attention that your comment about urea is incorrect as urea is naturally occuring in your skin. This is an excerpt from another website:
Urea is part of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) of skin, which is made up of 40% amino acids, 12% sodium PCA, 9% glycerol, and 8.5% urea (among other things). (3) These are all hygroscopic (water-holding) substances, that are essential for maintaining the health, function, and hydration of the stratum corneum. (4)
I am sure that your intentions are for health and wellbeing and that you will ammend your article to reflect correct information.
Have a gorgeous day!
Isabel
Tash says
Thanks Isabel!
I'm always happy to update and correct content 🙂
David says
You mentioned Lactic Acid, But should you really use any acid when your barrier have been compromised?
Sidequestion - Do you do the ocm everyday? And do you doublecleanse with another cleanser after?
Love your site btw! 🙂
Tash says
Hi David!
I would typically NOT recommend using acids on the skin if the barrier is compromised, so you are absolutely right in that regard 🙂 However, I have actually used very low dilutions of lactic acid with great results, but this is just a personal regimen that has worked for me and is definitely not suitable for everyone.
As for the OCM, I still use it as my primary method of cleansing. I do however use soap from time to time because sometimes I need to use a little something extra to help get rid of stubborn blackheads - mostly on the nose! And yes, I do double cleanse 🙂 I find that it keeps my skin more break-out free!
Really happy you like the site! Glad to have you here David!
radhika says
Your articles are great! I have started OCM! Which soap do you use from time to time?
Tash says
Hi Radhika!
I use a charcoal bar soap by the Seaweed Bath Co. 🙂
Yi says
Hi Tash,
Thanks a lot for sharing awesome knowledge with us. I have suffered from acne since I was 13. I have tried loads of acne products and diets. I also damaged my skin with these harsh products and skin became really sensitive to sunshine and temp.... anything one can imagine. Thanks to you, I found out every morning a bottle of veggie smoothie and your suggested barrier repair routine really worked for me!!! At least, I haven't break out since. I use Hemp oil from WFM, and then I'm trying german chamomile in jojoba oil(suggested by your other post).. Just want to say thank you!
Also, I still experience some redness...I think my skin is still kinda of sensitive? Do you have any other suggestions?
Yi
Tash says
Hi Yi!
So glad to hear that your skin is improving! 😀
When does your redness occur?
Ana says
Hello, I recently got 6 treatments of micro needling to my face and the esthetician went really deep. I have fine lines and Crepey skin. I also am losing the elasticity in my jaws line and in my neck. Would this protocol help me or will I most likely need surgery?
Tash says
Hi Ana!
Has the micro-needling been helping? I know it can take some time, but the results are usually really good, especially when done professionally 🙂
Ana says
Hi, I did get the micro needling done professionally however it completely damaged my skin. I have tears in my face alongside track marks and fine lines. I am trying to keep moisture in my skin and its a everyday battle.
jade says
Anna I have the same problem, did your skin ever heal and what did you do please??
Ann says
Hi I have the same problem- I had a Fraxel laser treatment and it damaged my skin. It’s been 2 years and it still hasn’t healed. I have been following the above protocol to heal barrier. I haven’t seen improvement.
Kami says
Hello! I LOVE THIS POST! Thank you. I struggle with rosacea (not the redness so much) but pustules when my skin doesn't like something and broken capillaries (on my nose). My skin seems dry and flaky in certain areas and just plain dehydrated. I am fairly certain that this is a result of my skin barrier being compromised from years of bad decisions/sun burns, chemicals on my face, hot water, scrubbing........I finally understand the importance of using holistic product(s). I started using an oil cleanser about a month ago and it seems to help (more than the Image products I was using before)though I am in need of a moisturizer or elixir or both that will repair my skin barrier and hydrate it....especially under my eyes. I have VERY sensitive combo (T zone) skin. It feels tight after oil cleansing so I am in desperate need of something to help undo what I have done over the years. I think that I am allergic to roses because I have tried rose water in the past and things with roses in it and it always aggravates my skin BUT I am not opposed to trying it again in case I was using something unnatural. I have been trying ALL things for rosacea and never even thought about or knew about the skin barrier being the root cause (possibly) for my issues. It makes sense so I am hoping that this regime will be the path that leads to success FINALLY! I am curious just for grins what your suggestion would be also for a cleanser. Mine consists of several (Botanical Luna Lemon Balm and Hemp Seed Nourishing Cleansing Oil) and that might be an issue as to why my skin feels so tight afterwards or not. I don't know for sure. Thank you so much for your time, concern and suggestions.
Tash says
Hi Kami!
You can always use a different floral water (perhaps lavender or even tea tree!) or toner that resonates well with your skin. As for the tightness you feel afterward, it definitely still sounds like your barrier needs a bit more love! Firstly, you will want to find a moisturizer that contains ceramides. The most natural one I could find on Amazon is called Earth Science - Multi-Therapy Ceramide Healthy Skin Lotion Fragrance-Free. Again, since you have rosacea, it's going to be a bit tricky to find something that your skin is going to like, but it may be worth trying. Next, you will want something with a bit of cholesterol in it. The most natural one I could find is Waleda Skin Food. It's definitely thick and greasy if you use too much, so a tiny bit goes a looong way. I have used it with good results 🙂
Your cleanser looks very clean! I'm wondering if your skin might react better if you add a moisturizer to your regimen. Even after I cleanse with oil I always use something to hydrate my skin afterward (typically a teeny tiny amount of Skin Food).
Skin issues can be so hard to figure out and navigate, but I hope you can find something that works well! I encourage you to use the site EWG.org to look into even more natural alternatives than the products I mentioned above.
Best of luck!
Kami says
Thanks Tash for the information! So I have Earth Science Healthy Skin Ceramide facial lotion and have used it in the past with odd results. My skin doesn't seem to like it very much. I am going to get the Waleda skin food that you made mention of and was thinking about getting the hyaluronic acid that you made mention of in your section of repairing the skin barrier. Do you think that would be beneficial? I am also going to check out EWG.org per your recommendation. I am so glad that I cam across your site. It has so much awesome information that I know will be life changing. You are awesome! Thanks again.
Eric says
Hi! So i use Honey as a face wash and dilute it abit with water so its get easier to massage, then i use Green Tea toner but don’t know if i should use it during the time when the Barrier repair? Last i use Sea buckthrorn berry Seed oil which i like alot. Should i stick with the Green toner or should i swap it with Rose water? And since Eva hansen Rose water doesn’t shipp to Europe, which one should i buy if you recomended another one? Kind regards.
Tash says
Hi Eric!
I think you can still use the green tea toner 🙂 Has it been working well for you? If it has, I would continue using it since it's good for balancing the skin and spreading the sea buckthorn oil.
wajeha khan says
hii..I am in need of your help...I used lemon directly on my skin for one month and I think that I have completely destroyed my skin protective barrier....my skin is very reactive right now...I get dry flaky skin and even get rashes too....in winters all this just become worse...plzzzz suggest me a complete NATURAL skin care routine and just tell me how to get back my protective barrier
Tash says
Hi Wajeha!
I would definitely stop using the lemon. What you will want to do now is use very gentle methods to help restore balance - that means using things like rose water, gentle oils, and no scrubbing! You may also want to look into moisturizers that have cholesterol in them. The one by Weleda called Skin Food works well and you only need to use a very very tiny amount. As for the oil, you can use whatever facial oil works best for your skin.
Morning and night, gently cleanse the skin with either facial oil or your favorite gentle cleanser that does not strip the skin. Then spritz the skin liberally with rose water and apply a tiny amount of the Skin Food moisturizer. Allow it to soak into the skin before dabbing away any excess. If you go out in the sun, you must wear a good sunscreen.
Try to avoid using hot water on your face during this time.
Best of luck! 🙂
Stephanie says
Hi Tash,
So glad I came across this article and your website, it's so informative and educational, it is exactly what I'm looking for! I've had very thin and sensitive skin for over 20 years! I'm not sure if it's rosacea or caused by leaky gut/ candida overgrowth but I've always thought there's no way to reverse it and have either put the cream on from dermatologist or try to wait it out when it flares. Recently I've had to take antibiotics and it really broke my face skin out to the point I decided to look into the way to cure it once and for all. After I stopped the antibiotics and start using only the evening primrose oil, sunflower oil and shea butter ( purchased from your links) my skin gradually turned from an explosion of angry red bumps and flakes to a a bit of dry flakes and tiny patches of red pimple on my cheeks. I know it's early stages but I'm very grateful that I've found a way to manage my skin. My question is though, after applying what I above mentioned it's a bit greasy on my face, I don't know if it's not absorbing into my skin or I've applied too much? Should I deep cleanse my pores first? And after washing my face with mild milky cleanser I still feel a film of sth on my face, I imagine it's oil but is it ok? Does it mean I'm not cleaning it properly?
And can I actually repair my skin barrier and nurse it back to normal or am I putting on a barrier on my skin so my symptoms are not as noticeable?
Lastly, I've also ordered the heritage rose water from your link and have now read from the above comments that it's not organic and not distilled from roses, do you have another recommendation? Some reviews from Amazon on Alteya Organics Organic Bulgarian Rose Water complaint about the awful smell so I don't want to take my chance.
Thank you very much!
Stephanie
Tash says
Hi Stephanie!
Shea butter is what causes that greasy feel on the skin. You could try spritzing rose water on your face first and use just a tiiiny amount of shea butter to help lessen that greasy feel. It should spread more easily on damp skin. I love shea butter but often find that I need to blot it a little bit to help remove excess. This still leaves my skin nice and hydrated feeling, so perhaps give that a try 🙂 As for the rose water, I was SO disappointed that it wasn't actually distilled from roses! I've been using this one with good results and it's organic and actually distilled from rose petals. I will update my links!
Laura says
I was wondering if the lactic acid can be used like hyaluronic acid? Can it just be put directly on the skin, or should it be diluted in a carrier oil? Also I've been reading a lot about different ways of making face creams, and was wondering what your take is on a face cream made from purely oils and shea butter vs. the method of having oils as well as water and emulsifying the two? Thank you so much for your very informative website, it's been very enlightening!
Tash says
Hi Laura!
So lactic acid is totally different than hyaluronic acid. Lactic acid increases cell turnover and can give a fairly immediate result in the brightness and evenness of your skin. It can be diluted in both water and oil-based face care and can be used at night 2-3 times per week. It also comes in different strengths so it's wise to start low. I actually really like using it about once a week.
Hyaluronic acid helps to attract water to your skin and does not act like traditional acids at all. It's suuuper gentle and moisturizing as long as the climate you live in has fairly good humidity. if you live in a dry climate, I would not recommend using it as it will suck the moisture OUT of your skin. It can be mixed into pretty much any type of face care, even lactic acid!
As for the face cream, both of those options are great. the main difference is going to be shelf life and thickness of the final product. if you make a face cream with water, you will need to use some type of preservative to prevent mold from growing. You don't have to worry about this in pure oil creams. Pure oil creams tend to be heavier and greasier depending on the ingredients used which is what makes emulsions nice to use because they are thinner and a bit more emollient. It's up to you which ones suit your skin best. I find that oil-based creams are best during the dry winter months while emulsions are best in the hotter months.
I hope this helps 🙂
mica says
My whole face is very tight, dry, and cracked. I have oily skin but not anymore. I have been dealing with for a long time about 4 months now and I have gotten no help at all the doctor did not know what to do. I also have a huge skin patch in the shape of a circle on my face its really dark and it cracks, peels, flakes, and its dry. I notice around my cheek and chin area its darker than my whole face and its very dry, tight, and cracks.I break out really bad in huge pimples ever since this has happen they are everywhere. Before this happened I was exfoliating ever week and putting a clay mask on too because I thought that was what you were suppose to do. My skin use to be so pretty but now its not this has been stressing me out so much i have thought suicidal thoughts because i don't look the same anymore and this wont leave me at all.
Tash says
Hi Mica!
So sorry to hear about what you're going through with your skin!
What is your current skincare routine? Have you gone to see a dermatologist?
Carrie says
Hi,
I am looking for help with repairing the acid mantle on my hand. I believe it is from frequent washing, since it was almost completely healed when I didn't wash my hands for 24 hrs while having my baby 2 weeks ago. I cook and clean all day, so i wash my hands dozens of times throughout the day. I have been using diluted castile soap, but I'm wondering if its been stripping the acid mantle on my hands (along with hard water). Which ph balanced hand soap do you recommend? Also, is there a product (or shorter protocol) I could follow after each hand washing?
Tash says
Hi Carrie!
Hmmmm... from what I could find, it may be worth trying this soap to see what you think. It's about as natural as I could find for PH balanced soaps. As for after washing, you would want to use any moisturizer that has some cholesterol in it. One that comes to mind that may be good to look into is Weleda Skin Food. The only downside is it does feel a bit greasy 🙁
Rachel says
Hi Tash! Thank you for this great article. My barrier was compromised from a combination of a really high stress job and using proactive for years. My skin has become so fragile that even just trying to cleanse my face leaves little scratches and scars, as well as a red and stinging side effect. I have always been acne prone, but with this extreme sensitivity the clogged pores are totally out of hand. I think my skin is very dehydrated as well. I was thinking to try hemp/safflower oil as they don't clog pores but might also help the severe damage. Any specific recommendations? Thanks!
Tash says
Hi, Rachel!
That sounds awful! I'm so sorry your skin is so sensitive! The hemp seed oil is a fantastic oil to try since it really shouldn't clog your pores. I would also recommend using a good rose hydrosol (you can get one on Amazon by Plant Therapy) to use as a PH balancing toner. What your skin really needs is some topical cholesterol to help repair your barrier. I've found that Waleda's Skin Food works pretty well for this, though it is pretty dang greasy! You would only need a very small amount and it is much easier to use when your face is damp with rose hydrosol. if your skin is having trouble, you may want to try cleansing just once per day to give it a break as even just plain water on the skin can dry it out and throw off its PH.
Jennifer says
Hi Tash,
Thanks for this posting! I've been searching everywhere to understand my weird skin issues and it seems like this is exactly what the problem is. Although I wonder if I'm allergic to roses?
I've been oil cleansing for years with jojoba and castor oil every other day and it greatly reduced my problems with oiliness. I found I was still having problems with blackheads though, so recently I started experimenting again. I started cleansing every day and using a little rosehip seed oil afterwards. I noticed after a couple days though, that my face was getting red.
I discontinued the rosehip seed oil but kept washing every night. I continued research on my skin, and it definitely is dehydrated. A few days ago I discovered this post; I washed my face with honey, spritzed on distilled rose water, then patted on sea buckthorn and jojoba oil, and today my face is again red and sensitive. Argh! Any suggestions? Is there something I could substitute for the rose water? I suppose I could go back to oil cleansing e/o day, but I'd like to treat these blackheads.
Thanks!
Tash says
Hi Jennifer!
Hmmm, you certainly COULD be allergic to roses. I wonder if your skin would be red and sensitive if you tried oil cleansing with the rosehip seed oil every other day just to see if that really is the issue or if just cleansing every day is the issue. Might take some experimentation.
As for the blackheads, I totally feel your pain! I naturally have oily skin and find it hard to control blackheads. Recently, I've been trying niacinamide serum on areas that are most congested with pretty good results, but I usually have to use a pore strip first to remove everything first. The serum just helps slow them down a bit. As i get better at controlling my sebum production, the blackheads tend to get better. Just keep at it 🙂
KayDee says
HI,
I am so glad I found your site and am very excited to try some of your suggestions out. I am wondering if you think this protocol would also work on eczema. My daughter is 2 and has suffered with eczema since about 2 months old. I believe that the culprit is our water as she was actually born here at our house into our water which happens to be very hard, which from what I have read hard water strips your skin of it's barrier. They say hard water reading is 100 and when we got ours tested it read 890. We got a new water system put on our house and I am hoping that if I am able to rebuild her skin barrier that she will get some relief. Would this protocol work for her skin do you think, or do you have any suggestions. Your advice would be so greatly appreciated. Thanks so much
Tash says
Hi Kaydee!
That water definitely sounds drying! I recommend applying a very gentle oil like sweet almond oil to the skin before getting out of the bath. This will help the oil really sink in! You can even add 2 drops of roman or german chamomile essential oil to every tsp of sweet almond oil for further benefits. These essential oils are know for soothing the irritation and inflammation caused by eczema and are safe for use in children 2 years and up. Also note too, that eczema is largely caused by allergies to food. It may be worth seeing what your child has intolerances to in their diet by asking your doctor for a food allergy test (there are even some online you can find, but a blood test is best). The hard water COULD be the cause, but I'm betting it is just aggravating a reaction to some type of food your child is eating. I hope this information is helpful! 🙂 Best of luck!
Kaydee says
Thank you so much for the advice. She was actually tested and treated for allergies by a natural doc, and it didn't change anything with the skin. That is why I believe it to be our water. The only time her skin ever got better was when she was small enough that I could give her a bath from fresh mountain spring water that we would drive to a local mountain to go get weekly. We got a new system put in in hopes that it would change our water quality. I just feel like She is constantly itchy so she never gives her skin a chance to heaI. I was searching the Internet on ways to rebuilding the skin barrier when I stumbled upon you, I am so grateful for your insight and I will try using the almond oil and chamomile. I will keep you posted! Thanks again.
Carla says
I love this article! Thank you for sharing such great information. I have extremely dry and flaky skin, and even the heaviest oils and moisturizers (even tallow balm) have not done much to improve it. I have Rosacea. My question is: my understanding is that oils high in linoleic acid are good for oily skin. In addition, Rosehip oil irritates my skin. In my situation, instead of using Rosehip oil like you recommend, would it be more beneficial to use an oil high in oleic acid instead? What would you recommend? argan oil? Tamanu oil? Any other oils? I already use Seabuckthorn oil daily and it has greatly improved my skin. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you!
Tash says
Hi Carla!
I have actually come across some evidence that oils high in oleic acid can further dry out the outer most barrier in those with an already damaged barrier. However, if the seabuckthorn is working well for you, I would stick with it and maybe add some rosehip oil and see how your skin likes it. Make sure to stay hydrated as well! 🙂 I have really oily skin and rosehip works well for me.
Katie says
Hi,
I'm glad to have found your post! I have been tirelessly searching for some sort of acne, skin, nightmare solution. I've been through it all from topicals, antibiotics, spirolactone, to being offered accutane at every other appointment. The spirolactone & retinoid worked for the acne (somewhat) but left my skin dry and oddly oily for years. Finally pulled the bandaid off and went holistic. After years of crying, trying anything, and still feeling burning, red, cystic acne skin, I decided to call it quits with big phrama. I went off birth control in Aug 2016 and then the spirolactone and topical in Sept 2017.
In Oct, I started to wash/steam with hemp oil every night, followed by a rose water/witch hazel toner. In the AM I would use raw honey to wash and follow with the toner. It was going well, but then started getting a little dry. I tried jojoba oil (by itself, directly to the face) and within two days I had/have a red rash all over my face. I stopped the jojoba immediately and returned to using Ceravae lotion after washing to help with the dryness. It's currently a mess & I don't know what to do. I'm 30 & just want clear-ish skin that doesn't hurt everyday.
Based on your post, should I ditch the oil cleansing method (steaming hemp oil) and current routine all together? Is it an allergic reaction to the jojoba two weeks ago? My diet is great, I'm a vegan and pay significant attention to my food...could do better with water. Sorry for the ramble, just very desperate!
Thanks!
Kayie
Tash says
Hi Katie!
It sounds like your skin started to purge after using the jojoba oil which unfortunately, is pretty common. However (and this doesn't men everyone), the purge is what brings all the clogs to the surface and eventually get rid of them. It's not fun to go through, but once you make it to the other side your skin will be loads better.
If you think it's an allergic reaction, then yes, I would definitely stop using the jojoba oil. Do you feel like your skin is dehydrated? This is different than just feeling dry. I would say go back to the hemp oil and rosewater treatment for now. For dryness, you can try a little bit (like a drop) of rosehip oil, argan oil, or evening primrose oil along with the hemp oil to help restore your skin's linoleic acid content. Drinking enough water is also key for keeping up proper moisture levels as well 🙂
Debra Ann Randall says
I have a whole body problem. My face is good. I became a Type 1 diabetic at age 56. I'm age 59 now. In April, 2017, I ended up with a bout of cellulitis on my lower right forearm. Three days in the hospital on three strong antibiotic IV's and then home with two oral antibiotics. Started having breakouts all over my body...welts and itchy. Saw an allergist...then a dermatologist who did a skin biopsy. Have been diagnosed with dermal hypersensitivity reactive pattern and night time is horrible. Using CervaNe and tried a natural cream. First the natural cream calmed the redness and welts down but had to switch manufacturers and last night when I used what I thought was the same cream with Aloe, Manuku Honey, Shea Butter etc. I broke out all over my legs and arms and was up all night. I am so frustrated now and stressed out because every night, I wake up with itching and welts. Ready to get a second opinion but do not want to go through everything again to get the same answer that my skin barrier is extremely damaged. It is October, 2017 now. How long will it take to build my barrier back up? The dermatologist basically said anything can cause outbreaks so that leaves me with no answers and I'm dealing with my whole body not just my face. Thank you in advance.
Tash says
Hi Debra!
That sounds awful! Were you able to clear up the cellulitis? Are you currently using anything on your skin? The barrier can take a while to repair depending on the severity of the damage so it's hard to guess a timeframe for your recovery. My best advise is to be diligent in avoiding and harsh chemicals including strong laundry detergent, dryer sheets/pellets, and anything else that may leave a residue on clothing and bedding. Aloe can cause an allergic reaction for some people, so maybe try to avoid that as well.
What you might want to try is doing a spot test first of single ingredients like pure shea butter to see if you react to that ingredient alone. It's time consuming but at least you will know what your skin likes and doesn't like. the key is to try and lock in moisture as best you can. Don't forget to stay properly hydrated as well.
Ann S says
How long does it typically take to restore the skins protective barrier when following the recommended protocol? Could it possibly take years ? And will the damage eventually be restored?? I'm asking because I had a fraxel laser treatment done over a year ago and my skin is still very fragile.
C.G says
Hi Tash....I just purchased the Heritage Rose Water. Is that product not a good choice? The Barrier Repair...I need to try that. I think I'm exfoliating too much and using too much hot steam. At 54 years old, I struggle with acne. Its never gone away since my teens. I have emailed you before and you have given me great advice but I'm still doing something wrong. I don't want to go back to 'over the counter' products. I use Raw Honey for cleansing, usually with baking soda and lemon juice. At night, I use Coconut Oil or Hempseed for Oil cleansing. My skin is scarred, pit marks, occasional pimple(s). It also slightly oily but dehydrated. Feels uncomfortable. I have also used many different oils, such as Olive Oil, Grapeseed, Pumpkinseed and sometimes Castor Oil. Can using different oils be the cause of my problem?? I read about the Barrier Repair and it does make a lot of sense to me. I've struggled many years to find the best skincare for my face and I'm failing..At my age, I should be fighting with wrinkles, not pimples and blackheads. Any more advice??? Please?
S.Billi says
Baking soda and lemon juice will further destroy your skin, I experience this from using only a few times
Ann Spriggs says
I had a laser treatment done one year ago and my face is constantly broken out. Ive never had acne before this. I'm 48 years old. I've tried all different kinds of lotions and oils, and still my face is broken out. Currently I'm using maracuja oil or rosehip seed oil and a bit of shea butter over it. Will my face eventually heal from this damage ??? Should I try washing with honey, then rose water, hyluronic acid, rosehip oil, and then shea butter routine ? How about vitamin c serum? Help!!! Is there anything you suggest I do to help me recover my skin ??? Thank you and anybody that has suggestions or has been though this please respond
Tash says
Hi Ann!
I responded to your comment on my carrier oils post 🙂
Ann S says
Sorry.... where is that? I don't see a carrier oils post.
Tash says
You can click here for the link: The Complete List of Comedogenic Oils 🙂
Moni says
I think in my case. Over-washing Caused a Damaged Barrier. I hope, Your barrier repair secret will help me to get back clear skin
Tash says
I hope so too! Good luck Moni!
Beth Ann says
Hi! Is Argon Oil a good choice for a skin protectant/moisturizer? This is one, after trying several oils, I find that doesn't seem to clog my pores causing further breakouts, to which I am prone. I have oily, sensitive skin. I have also found rosewater by Eve Hansen on Amazon I may try since it is organic and vegan. Are you familiar with this one? I am also considering the Heritage Store Rosewater from your link, but cannot tell if it is organic. Further, I plan to incorporate hylauronic acid into my routine. Will this be okay for my type of skin? I have experienced a bit of a reaction to the rosehip seed oil, which truly disappoints me.
Thank you so much for your posts and your articles! I am receiving your newsletters and love them!
Tash says
Hi Beth!
If argan oil does well for you keep using it 🙂 It works really well with rose water too! As a side note, I recently purchesed some of the heritage rose water, but it was NOT actual rose water. It was purified water with rose essential oils in it 🙁 SO sad I got the wrong one. So please make sure you really check the ingredients. You will want ACTUAL rose water distilled from roses. I don't think it's organic either unfortunately.
Also, hyaluronic acid should be fine to use 🙂 you really only need like 2 drops of it for your whole face. I like to spritz on some rose water and then apply hyaluronic acid. I let it sit for a moment before applying a moisturizing oil.
I'm so happy you enjoy my posts and newsletters 🙂 <3
Beth Ann says
Thank you for your super fast reply! Sorry I havent gotten back until now.
I ended up purchasing Organic Bulgarian Rose Water from Alteya Organics (ISDA Organic) through Amazon. It is thermal distilled. It is lovely! I hope to make my own next time should the rose water prove as beneficial as I hope.
I also today received my Eve Hansen Organic set of Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Retinol Serum. It is my understanding that I should only use the vitamin C every other day or only a couple of times a week to start. And I will apply prior to the Hyaluronic acid allowing the vitamin C to dry for at least 15 minutes prior to applying the HA. I am guessing I should always spritz my face with rose water prior to applying these serums.
The one I'm a bit concerned about is the retinal serum. I have read that that can cause breakouts especially in acne prone skin. How familiar are you with this? I believe I read that I should only use it a couple of times a week opposite of when using the vitamin C and that it would be best to use these products in the evening which is my plan regardless.
Any thoughts on the retinal serum? This one is 2.0%.
Thanks again for your thoughts and insight! I truly do appreciate it as I am still learning and trying the all-natural skin care route. ?
Tash says
Hello again Beth!
I'm glad you got the other rose water! I did see that one and it sounds good. But yes, you would use the vitamin C serum every other day or every few days as it can be pretty strong. You can spritz with rose water between each serum. Not only will in make spreading the serum over your face easier, it will also allow you to use less! I have been using a retinal serum (2.5%) for months and have not experienced any issues. I only use it at night and maybe once or twice a week. I find it helps with fine lines 🙂 I think what may be causing trouble for some people is they don't moisturize well enough while using retinal. Since retinal increasing cellular turnover, those cells just stay stuck to the skin or in pores and that's why the break out. However, if you stay hydrated and keep your skin moisturized, you shouldn't have this issue.
Beth Ann says
Thanks again Tash! I feel confident now incorporating these serums into my routine.
Tash says
Glad to hear it Beth! Best of luck 😀