Skin Barrier Disruption

Specialising in problematic skin conditions. 

The Skin Barrier.

The skin barrier function is a crucial aspect of the skin’s physiology. It serves as a protective barrier between the body’s internal environment and the external world, playing a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Here are some key points about skin barrier function:

    Physical Barrier: The outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, consists of several layers of skin cells. The topmost layer, the stratum corneum, is composed of redundant skin cells (corneocytes) embedded in a lipid matrix. This layer acts as a physical barrier that prevents the entry of harmful microorganisms, allergens, and environmental toxins into the body.

    Protection: The skin barrier helps protect the body from various external threats, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and environmental irritants like UV radiation, pollution, and chemicals.

    Hydration: The lipid matrix in the stratum corneum also helps to retain moisture within the skin, preventing excessive water loss. This is essential for maintaining skin hydration and preventing dryness.

    pH Regulation: The skin’s pH level is slightly acidic, typically around 5.5. This acidic environment helps inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms while supporting beneficial bacteria that reside on the skin’s surface.

    Immune Function: The skin barrier is equipped with immune cells, such as Langerhans cells, which play a role in detecting and responding to potential threats to the body’s health.

    Sensory Function: The skin is rich in sensory receptors that allow us to perceive tactile sensations like touch, pressure, temperature, and pain.

    Repair and Regeneration: The skin barrier is not static but constantly undergoing renewal and repair. Old skin cells are shed, and new ones are formed to maintain its integrity.

    Factors that can compromise the skin barrier function include:

    Excessive Cleansing: Frequent and harsh cleansing can strip away the skin’s natural oils, disrupting the lipid barrier and leading to dryness and sensitivity.

    Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh weather conditions, pollutants, and UV radiation can weaken the skin barrier over time.

    Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis can disrupt the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation and infection.

    Maturing: As we mature, the skin’s ability to regenerate and maintain its barrier function naturally declines.

      Our Results Speak For Themselves

      "Paula is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the skin I put my trust in her fully. She is very understanding of any concerns and her treatments are so relaxing. I have been going to Paula for around 13 years would not go anywhere else and am more than happy with the results. She is the best."

      Lynda Bergin

      "I have trusted Paula with my skin for 8 years and my skin has never looked so good! I love Paula’s no fuss approach and honesty. Paula is always so thorough, attentive, and always goes above and beyond for her clients. I am always being educated on my skin and her advice and recommendations are always welcome due to her decades of study, qualifications, and experience in the industry. "

      Joanne Dreier

      "I have been seeing Paula monthly for over three years now. As a woman entering her forties, I wanted help keep my ageing skin as healthy and youthful as possible. Each treatment is thoroughly relaxing, and it is always a pleasure spending time with Paula. Her products are divine for my at home care and my skin has never felt better!"

      Danielle MacDonald

      "Paula listened to my concerns and gave me a treatment plan that actually worked and with great results. It was thoroughly explained as well. Paula’s knowledge is second to none. My skin is now glowing. When you enter the clinic, it is calming, relaxing and so professional. You will leave feeling like a million dollars. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my skin. Great experience with good results always. "

      Sue Crosby

      "What a wonderful clinic! I have been coming to Paula for many years and wouldn’t go anywhere else. She is warm and welcoming but above all knowledgeable and passionate about skin. I have allergies and skin cancer scars and she has helped me immeasurably both with my skin and in educating me about my skin! Brilliant work! Thank you, Paula!"

      Patricia Ashley

      "Paula is always open to any concerns/issues that I raise with her. She generally asks a few clarifying questions and is then able to provide insight into why the issue/concern is occurring, and how it can be resolved. Paula outlines each stage of her treatments, including why she is using a particular product, how it will make me feel, and the long-term benefits. I always leave my appointments feeling relaxed and with a bit more knowledge about my skin and/or the products I use. My skin care regime is personalised by Paula to suit my individual requirements, and it is easy for me to manage and maintain. As a result, my skin always feels healthy and presentable in its natural state, which gives me the confidence to go out and about without having to hide my face behind make up. "

      Joanne Perkins

      "I have been seeing Paula for about five years now. Paula is unlike other therapists I have seen before in that her knowledge and passion for skin health is second to none. Paula not only understood my concerns about my skin, but proactively searched and implemented new cutting-edge equipment and products to aid my concerns. I have found Paula's treatments to be amazing, and I feel completely looked after and safe in Paula’s hands. Not only are Paula’s treatment successful in keeping my skin youthful looking, but they also keep my skin healthy. Thanks Paula!"

      Mariah Goode

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