EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR SKIN BARRIER REPAIR AFTER ALLERGIES

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rosmy Barrios 

When allergies affect your skin, they can be challenging to treat. They can be triggered by various events and exposures, including chemical irritants (generally found in different cosmetic products^[1]), certain food^[2], medications, insect bites, and more. Allergy-induced skin reactions can cause damage to the skin's barrier, leading to discomfort, irritation, and even infection.

This article discusses how to repair your skin barrier after an allergic reaction and provides tips for preventing future damage.

Understanding the Skin Barrier

Before we dive into repairing the skin barrier, it is essential to understand what it is and its role in protecting our skin. The skin barrier is a wider term that includes the stratum corneum and other skin components, such as intercellular lipids (ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol). Stratum Corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis and primarily consists of dead keratinized cells (corneocytes) and contains proteins, but the proteins in the skin barrier mainly reside in deeper layers of the skin.^[3]

Corneocytes are tough, dead skin cells that act as a protective barrier against external irritants, skin abrasion, heat, light, allergens, and bacteria and keeps the skin healthy and hydrated. The overall barrier function also relies on proteins, lipids, and structural elements. While the stratum corneum protects against mechanical abrasion and UV light, its main function is to prevent water loss and entry of pathogens.

The oils in the skin barrier work together to maintain the skin's moisture levels, preventing skin dehydration and protecting it from environmental stressors. The skin barrier also houses beneficial bacteria that protect the skin from infection, lower inflammation, and maintain the correct pH.

Skin Barrier Disruption in Skin Allergy

A skin allergy refers to a cascade of events in the skin that ultimately leads to inflammation and skin barrier disruption^[4]. The immune system identifies it as a threat upon initial exposure to an allergen. Immune cells like T-lymphocytes become sensitized to the allergen, known as contact sensitization.

On subsequent exposure, the sensitized T-cells trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals like histamines. The inflammation leads to symptoms like redness, itching, and swelling. In some cases (e.g., atopic dermatitis), the immune system produces specific antibodies (IgE) against the allergen, further fueling the inflammatory response.

Allergic reactions can disrupt the stratum corneum, compromising its ability to retain moisture and keep irritants out. A damaged barrier allows allergens and irritants to penetrate deeper skin layers, triggering further immune responses and inflammation. Disruption creates an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, worsening irritation and inflammation.

The skin pH is slightly acidic (4.5-5.5). A damaged skin barrier results in increased pH making it more alkaline. Higher pH can impair barrier function and support bacterial growth. This creates a cycle where allergies worsen barrier function, and a compromised barrier allows for more frequent and severe allergies.

Damaged Skin Barrier Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of a damaged skin barrier is the first of several steps necessary for its repair. Common symptoms include^[5]:

• Dry, flaky skin
• Redness and irritation
• Itchiness
• Sensitivity to skincare products
• Increased breakouts or acne
• Inflammation or swelling

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to take action to repair your skin barrier and prevent further damage. Skin barrier damage can trigger flare-ups of conditions like eczema and aggravate psoriasis.

Risk Factors

General (non-allergenic) inflammation in the skin can heighten its reactivity towards allergens and increase the risk of allergy^[6]. Risk factors include excessive exfoliation, exposure to chemicals and environmental pollutants, sunburn, skin infections or conditions, and hormonal changes, including puberty and pregnancy.

Aging can make it more problematic to repair the skin barrier completely as skin cells do not regenerate in the same way as during youth.

How long does it take for an allergic reaction on the face to clear up?

The duration of an allergic reaction on the face depends on the severity and the allergen^[7]:

• Mild reactions: Typically fade within a few hours or days.
• Severe reactions (anaphylaxis): Require immediate medical attention and may take several days to resolve.

Will my skin go back to normal after an allergic reaction?

Yes, your skin can repair itself and can generally return to normal after an allergic reaction subsides.

However, repeated reactions or severe cases might lead to long-term changes like pigmentation or scarring.

Repairing the Skin Barrier

Repairing your skin barrier after an allergic reaction requires patience and consistency.

Following the tips below and using the right products can restore your skin's health and prevent future damage.

Implement a Gentle Skincare Routine

Following a comprehensive skincare regimen is crucial to repairing and restoring your skin barrier post an allergic reaction. For optimal skin repair, consider the following points:

• Gentle Cleansing: Start by using fragrance-free, non-stripping cleansers with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh ingredients that may further damage your skin barrier. Gentle cleansing helps remove impurities without causing irritation.
• Moisturization: Regularly moisturize with fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers containing essential ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or petrolatum. Apply moisturizer at least twice daily to hydrate dry areas and protect the skin barrier's integrity.

During a flare-up or skin reaction, interrupt your usual skincare routine and avoid wearing makeup or using retinoids until your skin calms down.

Refrain from scratching or rubbing the affected areas, which can further worsen the irritation and damage the skin barrier. Instead, use cooling or wet compresses to alleviate discomfort and soothe the skin.

Avoid Irritating Ingredients

When your skin barrier is damaged, avoiding further irritation is essential. This means avoiding skincare products with harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Examples include^[8]:

• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
• Glycolic Acid
• Lactic Acid
• Sulfates
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Alcohol (or Ethanol)
• Fragrance

These ingredients can further harm or irritate your skin and delay healing.

Instead, opt for gentle, fragrance-free products specifically designed for sensitive skin. Products that contain soothing ingredients can help to soothe and protect against skin irritation. Some of these include:

• Aloe vera
• Chamomile
• Colloidal oatmeal
• Calendula
• Centella Asiatica
• Olive
• Petroleum Jelly
• Blue tansy

It is also advisable to choose skincare products with a pH level similar to your skin (between 4 and 5). This helps maintain the skin's natural acidity, crucial for a healthy skin barrier function.

Skin Barrier Repair Ingredients

Some ingredients are particularly beneficial when repairing the skin barrier. Look for products that contain potent ingredients to help soothe and restore your skin. Examples include:

• Ceramides: Ceramides are essential lipids naturally found in the skin barrier.^[9] Replenishing them helps restore the skin's protective function and prevent moisture loss.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is described like a sponge, attracting and retaining moisture and keeping the skin barrier hydrated and plump^[10].
• Niacinamide: Niacinamide boosts the skin's natural production of ceramides and lipids^[11], strengthening the barrier and reducing sensitivity.
• Glycerine: Glycerine is a powerful humectant^[12], drawing water into the skin barrier to improve hydration and prevent dryness.
• Oat Beta Glucan: Oat beta-glucan soothes inflammation, enhances water retention, and promotes healthy skin cell and lipid production^[13], supporting the overall barrier structure.
• Allantoin: Allantoin calms inflammation, supports wound healing, and promotes skin cell renewal for a smoother, healthier barrier.^[14]
• Panthenol: Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) deeply hydrates, reduces inflammation, and helps with the skin's repair processes.^[15]
• Ethyl Linoleate: An essential fatty acid, ethyl linoleate helps to thicken the skin cells, which contributes to the skin barrier and lowers skin inflammation.^[16]
• Fatty Acids: Fatty acids are elementary building blocks of the skin barrier, maintaining its strength and preventing moisture loss.
• Cholesterol: Like ceramides and fatty acids, cholesterol is a crucial lipid component of the skin barrier, helping retain moisture and regulate permeability.^[17]

Sun Protection

Shielding your skin from harsh UV rays is essential for maintaining a healthy and repaired skin barrier.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily. Opt for fluid-based sunscreens rather than cream-based ones to minimize excessive rubbing on the skin. Reapply every two hours if you are spending time outdoors.

Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to avoiding skincare products that irritate your skin, you can make some lifestyle modifications to help repair your skin barrier. These include:

• Avoiding hot showers and baths: Water that is too hot can deplete the skin's natural oils, making it dry and irritated. It can also increase Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) and trigger inflammation, exacerbating skin barrier damage. Ensure the water is at a suitable temperature and does not burn the skin.
• Using a humidifier: Dry air can also contribute to skin barrier damage^[18]. A humidifier can help to prevent skin dehydration and dryness by adding moisture to the air.
• Drinking plenty of water: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Keep drinking water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
• Getting enough sleep: A lack of sleep can increase inflammation and stress, further damaging the skin barrier. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep at a stable time each night to allow for optimal skin regeneration.^[19]
• Stress management: Keeping calm is crucial in skin barrier repair. Relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation can reduce stress and facilitate optimal skin function and repair.
• Consuming a healthy diet: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, good fats, collagen-boosting foods, and probiotics can support skin barrier repair. Additionally, it is important to restrict sugar and processed foods, as they can promote inflammation and exacerbate skin barrier damage.

Consult a Dermatologist

If your skin barrier damage is severe or does not improve with at-home treatments, it is essential to consult a dermatologist. They can provide personalized recommendations and prescribe corticosteroids, antihistamines for allergies, anti-inflammatory creams, or medications to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Preventing Future Damage

Once you have repaired your skin barrier, it is crucial to prevent future damage. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy skin barrier^[20]:

• Avoid known allergens: If you know you are allergic to certain ingredients or substances, avoid them to prevent future reactions.
• Patch test new products: Before trying out a new skincare product, patch test it on a small area of your skin to ensure you are not allergic to the ingredients.
• Use gentle products: Stick to gentle, fragrance-free products to avoid further irritation.
• Moisturize regularly: Moisturizing keeps your skin hydrated by sealing moisture in with extra oils. Moisturize daily, especially after showering or washing your face.
• Sun Protection: As mentioned earlier, sun exposure can damage the skin barrier, so using sunscreen daily is crucial.^[21]

Latest Advancements

In recent years, there have been significant advancements in skincare technology, particularly in repairing the skin barrier. A couple of recent breakthroughs include:

• Enhanced Drug Delivery: Traditional methods of applying medication struggle to penetrate the skin's protective barrier. A new study explores six transdermal drug delivery techniques that utilize physical methods like sound waves, electrical currents, and heat to improve medication absorption. These techniques have the potential to revolutionize drug treatment by allowing for targeted delivery and potentially reducing side effects.^[22]
• Advanced Moisturizers for Barrier Repair: Moisturizers are crucial in maintaining healthy skin. The effectiveness of moisturizers lies in choosing a formulation containing ingredients specific to your skin needs. Endocannabinoid mediators and physiological lipids are examples of promising ingredients which can aid in repairing the skin barrier Biomimetic technology, which mimics the natural composition of skin, is emerging as a promising approach for developing next-generation moisturizers.^[23]

These advancements offer a glimpse into the future of skincare, where personalized treatments and targeted solutions are becoming increasingly possible.

Conclusion

Allergy-induced skin reactions can cause damage to the skin barrier, leading to discomfort and irritation. However, with the right products and lifestyle modifications, you can repair your skin barrier and prevent future damage. If your symptoms persist or worsen, book a consultation with a dermatologist for personalized recommendations. Your skin will continue to feel and look its best if you take the right care of it to maintain a healthy skin barrier.