How to Repair Your Skin Barrier Naturally.

Struggling with dryness, sensitivity, or breakouts that just won’t go away? Your skin barrier might be compromised - and it's more common than you think.

Your skin barrier is your body’s first defense against harmful toxins. But without proper care, it can become damaged by factors like sun exposure, harsh skincare products, pollution, and over-cleansing.

So, how can you strengthen and repair it? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the skin barrier, five simple steps to repair your skin barrier naturally, and share the key ingredients that help heal and protect your skin.

Let’s dive in!

What is a Skin Barrier?

Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin, also known as the stratum corneum. It acts like a protective shield, keeping moisture in and blocking out harmful elements like bacteria, pollution, and irritants. Made up of skin cells and natural lipids (fats), this barrier plays a crucial role in keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and balanced. [1]

Healthy vs Damaged Skin Barrier

Signs Your Skin Barrier Might Be Damaged

When your skin barrier is compromised, it often shows up in ways you can see and feel. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

Dryness or flakiness
Your skin may feel tight, rough, or appear visibly dry.
Redness or inflammation
A weakened barrier can lead to irritation and increased sensitivity.
Itchiness or discomfort
Persistent itchiness is a common signal that your skin isn’t properly protected.
Breakouts or acne flare-ups
An unbalanced barrier can trigger or worsen blemishes.
Increased sensitivity
Your skin may react more easily to ingredients or environmental factors that never used to bother you. [2]

How to Repair your Skin Barrier Naturally

Your skin barrier is your body’s first defense against harmful toxins. You can help repair and strengthen it with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, natural oils, shea butter, and antioxidants such as vitamin C - plus daily sun protection to prevent further damage.

5 Steps to Repair your Skin Barrier Naturally

1. Wash your skin with lukewarm water rather than hot water. Water that is too hot can strip away the skin’s natural oils and cause irritation and dryness.

2. Use a hydrating cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. A great option is New Dawn Organic Shampoo and Gel Wash, made with soothing and pH balancing organic Aloe Vera and Patchouli Essential Oil. It gently cleanses while helping to calm and protect the skin on your face and body.

3. Next, it’s time to treat your skin with targeted ingredients. Organic Rose Water is a gentle yet powerful ingredient that helps repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, it soothes irritation, reduces redness, and supports the skin’s natural healing process. Its hydrating effect also helps maintain moisture balance, which is essential for a healthy, resilient barrier.

4. Follow with Benchmark Thyme Moisturiser to naturally support and repair your skin barrier. Packed with nourishing ingredients like organic sunflower seed oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil, it deeply moisturises and replenishes the skin’s natural lipids. Soothing aloe vera and rosehip oil help calm inflammation and promote healing, while the unique benchmark thyme oil blend adds gentle antimicrobial support without irritation. This 100% vegan formula is rich in plant-based goodness and high in vitamin C, making it ideal for restoring a healthy, resilient skin barrier naturally

5. A little sun is good for us, it helps our bodies produce vitamin D and can lift our mood. However, if you're going to spend prolonged periods in the sun, it's important to protect your skin by applying sunscreen. A natural sunscreen like Shade is a great choice because it uses gentle, non-toxic ingredients that protect without clogging pores or harming the environment.

6. For very dry skin: Applying a natural organic face oil before moisturising can provide deep nourishment and lasting hydration. Our Patchouli Face Oil is a perfect choice, it’s rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help repair the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and soothe irritation. With ingredients like patchouli and jojoba, it not only softens and smooths the skin but also promotes a healthy, radiant glow without the use of harsh chemicals.

How long does it take for the skin barrier to heal?

Depending on how compromised it is, healing your skin barrier can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

By consistently following a gentle skincare routine and using nourishing, barrier-supporting products, in time, you’ll notice a smoother, softer texture and a healthier, more youthful glow.