Damaged Skin Barrier

[ClariP04]

Hi Beautiful Sephora Community 

I'm new to the skincare world.  I’m 43 and I am out in the sun a lot.  I do use sunblock.  But I’m assuming I used too much of a certain product and broke/damaged my skin barrier. What advice do you recommend?  And how long do I allow to heal to reset.

[itsfi]

@ClariP04, I'm so sorry you're going through this. I have experienced a broken / compromised skin barrier on several occasions and it is not fun, to say the least. 😔 The recommendation made by @missjeanie and @SportyGirly125 to see a family doctor or dermatologist is a sound one and if that's something you are in a position to do or look into, it could be worthwhile. 

As I said, I've worked on healing a broken skin barrier more than once and I will say that the time it takes to heal depends on a few factors, including, among other things, the extent to which your skin barrier is compromised or damaged, your skin type, how your skin responds to whatever products/treatments you'll use to address the issue and other environmental factors. That said, when I've dealt with this issue with my own skin, I scale back my skincare routine to the bare minimum, keeping it as simple (and effective) as I can for my skin, which usually means, cleanser, moisturizer and in the morning, sunscreen. I asked a few follow up questions below 👇 and with that info, maybe we can get a little more details to help you. 

[miss8]

@ClariP04 , I Actually Think Animal Fat / Lard Is Ideal For This Issue 🐾 #DontJudgeMe #ILoveAnimals

[ClariP04]

Good afternoon 

Never heard of that or where it could be purchased. But no judgement here. 

[miss8]

@ClariP04 , #GoogleIt 🖥⌨️🖱

[missjeanie]

I'd suggest seeing your family doctor or dermatologist @ClariP04 , but if I were trying to repair my skin barrier on my own, I'd pare down my products to the bare minimum.  A gentle cleanser, Cerave or Cetaphil, a high SPF during the day and Vasaline at night.  I'd also suggest getting some UPF clothing in that could help with sun protection.  If your current SPF isn't cutting it, I'd check out a higher number, as well as some different methods of reapplication.  While reapplying a full on lotion is always best, sprays can be more convenient.  

[ClariP04]

Good morning thank you so much, I do use SPF and never had any burning to my face.  I know I used something in my skincare routine that aggravated my skin on the side creases of my nose and on the higher part of my cheeks. But thank you so much for the tips I will definitely by trying something new.

[itsfi]

@ClariP04, did you introduce any new product to your skincare routine? Or, would you mind sharing what your skincare routine consists of? 

Edited to add: how would you describe your skin type - oily? dry? combo? normal? Sorry for all the questions. Just trying to get a better idea of your skin / routine so we might make recommendations for you. 

[SportyGirly125]

@ClariP04 @Have you seen a dermatologist?

[ClariP04]

Good morning, unfortunately no I have never seen a dermatologist.