What you need to know about caring for dry and sensitive skin: recommendations from a medical doctor

There are many problems associated with the condition of the skin. Among them are dryness, oiliness, sensitivity, intolerance. Any skin type requires specialized care, but dry and sensitive skin in particular. Let's consider them in more detail.

How does the epidermal barrier work?

Human skin is a natural protective barrier that performs many functions. An important role in the formation of the barrier properties of the skin is played by the epidermal barrier (stratum corneum), which is provided by constant cell renewal and the synthesis of the components of the hydrolipidic mantle. The stratum corneum has a unique "brick and mortar" structure, with cells acting as the bricks and intercellular lipids as the cement. Through exfoliation, this layer is constantly renewed, removing pathogens, allergens, and toxins from the skin's surface and maintaining a certain level of moisture. However, both accelerated and slow cell renewal can lead to increased water loss and dry skin. Another mechanism that determines the normal functioning of the epidermal barrier is a sufficient content of the components of the intercellular matrix - ceramides in the skin.

What causes dryness?

Dry skin (xerosis) is a common clinical sign that is caused by a disruption in the functioning of the skin's protective barrier due to exposure to various exogenous or endogenous factors. Dry skin lacks both lipids and moisture, while the problem of dry and sensitive skin at different periods of life can affect anyone. 

When deciding on the treatment of xerosis, it is necessary to follow two rules: identifying and eliminating the cause, if possible; and the use of specialized external dermatocosmetic products, the action of which is aimed at restoring the barrier function of the skin and moisturizing. There are 4 main causes of xerosis:

1. skin diseases

   (atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis) and the consequences of dermatose therapy (retinoids, phototherapy, etc.);

2. somatic pathology

   (endocrine dysfunction, mental illnesses with impairment, malignant tumors, infectious pathology);

3. exposure factors

   (solar and artificial radiation, meteorological conditions, nutritional disorders, hypovitaminosis, intake of certain medications);

4. involutionary processes.

Thus, dry skin can be observed in almost any person. The development of xerosis is mediated by numerous mechanisms, but ultimately results in barrier dysfunction and increased transepidermal water loss. Clinically, xerosis is characterized by increased/insufficient desquamation (minor scaling may be observed) and the presence of microcracks. Subjectively, patients may experience discomfort, including a feeling of tightness, burning, and even mild itching. The concept of "sensitive skin" has also become firmly established. Patients increasingly complain about it, leading to research and the development of specialized cosmetics. It is estimated that 40% of the US population and 70% of European women believe they exhibit all the signs of hypersensitivity. Sensitive skin syndrome can arise from a skin condition or improper skin care, and in most cases, it develops as a result of dry skin. For some people, all signs of "sensitivity" arise after using improperly selected cosmetics, while for others, these symptoms occur with changes in climate.

Although dry and sensitive skin are not diseases, these conditions significantly complicate the lives of their sufferers. Therefore, for them, proper skin care is the primary solution. Since dry and sensitive skin are inextricably linked, these individuals need to carefully select dermocosmetic products. And of course, it is best to get recommendations from a dermatologist or cosmetologist.

What can be recommended to such patients?

Since one of the universal mechanisms of xerosis development is an imbalance of the components of the intercellular matrix - ceramides, it is their replenishment that plays an important role in restoring skin moisture, regardless of the causes of its disturbance. Proper care for dry (very dry) and sensitive skin requires gentle cleansing and regular moisturizing. Based on scientific data on the needs of dry, very dry, and sensitive skin, as well as years of experience in developing dermocosmetics, LIBREDERM has created a comprehensive collection of products that meets all the needs of this type of skin. For example, Cerafavit products with ceramides and prebiotics effectively moisturize the skin, retain moisture, strengthen the natural protective barrier, and support the microbiome. This series of products is dye-free and well-tolerated. For cleansing, we recommend, for example, Cerafavit soothing shower gel or oil with ceramides and prebiotics. For moisturizing, we recommend Cerafavit balm with ceramides and prebiotics. Cerafavit products contain only carefully tested active ingredients essential for dry and sensitive skin. So everyone can find the right product for themselves.

For example, for dry and sensitive skin in adults, the first step of care involves the use of cleansers: Cerafavit soothing shower gel with protective properties for sensitive skin of babies, children, and adults with ceramides and prebiotic LIBREDERM thoroughly cleanses the skin, instantly softens, moisturizes, and soothes, protecting against the effects of hard water. It also provides prolonged hydration for up to 24 hours.

Cerafavit triple-action balm can be used as the main moisturizer. The composition of this product ensures the restoration of the barrier function and hydration, even in cases of severe dryness. Shea butter nourishes, softens, and moisturizes the skin, ceramides restore its protective properties, vitamin F strengthens the skin's lipid barrier, a prebiotic regulates the microbiome balance, and physioadapted water ensures the product's compatibility with the skin due to its chemical composition enriched with microelements. For adults with very dry skin prone to atopy, Cerafavit lipid-restoring softening shower oil with ceramides and LIBREDERM prebiotic is suitable for cleansing. This product contains more than 50% natural peach and soybean oils, which nourish, soften, and strengthen the skin's protective barrier, keeping it hydrated. Ceramides, which are also part of the formula, restore protective functions, vitamin F strengthens the lipid barrier, and the prebiotic restores the microbiome.
For severe dryness, including in older patients, we can also recommend Cerafavit triple-action lipid-restoring balm for the face and body of babies, children, and adults with ceramides and LIBREDERM prebiotic. The rich formula of the emollient balm instantly softens and nourishes the skin, provides long-lasting hydration for up to 48 hours, eliminates the feeling of tightness, reducing itching caused by dryness.

Thus, products from the Cerafavit expert line with ceramides and LIBREDERM prebiotic are created specifically for dry, very dry, and sensitive skin. They help solve these problems, reduce reactivity, and maintain the skin's barrier functions, which means its health and beauty.