the sensitive skin + barrier repair guide

when your skin feels irritated, red, or tight — the answer is usually your barrier.

this guide brings together our most popular and research-driven blog posts to help you better understand your skin’s needs, especially if you deal with sensitivity, dehydration, or recurring redness. from ingredients to avoid to layering rituals and product recommendations, this is your go-to library for calm, resilient skin.

start here: what is your skin barrier?

read: why barrier repair is essential for sensitive skin

your skin barrier is your first line of defense — it keeps moisture in and external irritants out. this post explains what happens when it’s compromised, how to tell if it’s damaged, and what steps you can take to begin recovery.

key signs your barrier needs help

read: is your skincare making your sensitive skin worse?

not all sensitivity is caused by products — but when it is, these are the early signs to watch for. we cover ingredient triggers, over-exfoliation, and how to simplify your routine to avoid flare-ups.

best barrier-supporting ingredients

read: barrier-repair ingredients to look for in your skincare

from ceramides to panthenol, learn which ingredients actually support recovery — and which ones just add surface hydration. we break it down simply.

layering skincare for sensitive skin

read: how to layer skincare for sensitive, reactive skin

the order you apply your products matters — especially when your barrier is compromised. this post outlines a gentle, effective routine to maximize results without triggering irritation.

our top barrier-repair product picks

read: best barrier repair creams for sensitive skin

we reviewed top-performing moisturizers and overnight treatments, including those ideal for redness-prone skin. bonus: includes an internal comparison to vacation skin and when to use it.

faq

what is a skin barrier and why does it matter? your skin barrier is made up of lipids (like ceramides and fatty acids) that lock in moisture and protect against environmental stressors. when it’s compromised, you may experience redness, dryness, breakouts, or stinging.

can i use exfoliants if my skin barrier is damaged? very sparingly. skip active exfoliants (like glycolic acid) and focus on gentle options like lactic acid — if any. focus first on restoring moisture and lipids.

how do i know if a product supports barrier repair? look for ingredients like ceramides, squalane, panthenol, centella asiatica, glycerin, and calendula. avoid denatured alcohol, strong fragrance, and essential oils over 1%.

more coming soon

this guide is updated regularly. check back as we add new articles, rituals, and recovery tips.