If your skin feels tight, burns after applying products, turns red easily, or suddenly reacts to everything, your skin barrier may be damaged. The skin barrier is your body’s first line of defense. It protects against moisture loss, pollution, bacteria, and irritants. When this barrier weakens, skin becomes sensitive, dehydrated, and inflamed. The good news is that you can repair a damaged skin barrier without irritation. You only need the right approach, gentle products, and a little patience. This guide explains how skin barrier damage happens, how to fix it safely, and how to restore healthy, calm skin step by step. What Is the Skin Barrier and Why It Matters The skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin. It is made of skin cells held together by lipids like ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. Think of it as a brick wall. The skin cells act as bricks, and the lipids act as cement. When the barrier is healthy, it keeps moisture in and harmful elements out. When it breaks ...