Tight, red, stingy or flaky? Your barrier may be compromised. Here's how to bring it back.
A healthy skin barrier keeps water in and irritants out. Over-exfoliating, harsh products or too many actives can damage it — leaving skin tight, red and reactive.
How to repair it
- Pause strong actives (acids, retinoids) for a couple of weeks.
- Switch to a gentle cleanser and a barrier-supporting moisturiser (niacinamide, ceramides).
- Add soothing ingredients like centella and aloe.
- Keep SPF going — damaged skin is more sun-sensitive.
Less is more here. Simplify your routine, give it time, and reintroduce actives slowly once skin feels calm again.
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Written by
The AURA Team