Microbiome, Barrier Function and Sensitivity

June 23, 2022

Understanding Your Skin Barrier: Why It Matters for Skin Health

Expert Care and Evidence-Based Skin Support at Tx Bar, Geelong

If you’ve had a consultation or treatment at Tx Bar, you may have heard our experienced skin therapists refer to your skin’s barrier function, microbiome, or acid mantle—especially when assessing signs of redness, dryness, or sensitivity. But what do these terms really mean? And why are they important?

What Is the Skin Barrier and Why Is It Important?

Your skin is composed of several protective layers, each with a vital role. The outermost layer—the stratum corneum—is made up of tightly packed cells (corneocytes) held together by lipids. Together, these form what is known as the skin barrier, a critical shield that:

  • Helps retain hydration

  • Protects against irritants, pollutants, and microbes

  • Supports overall skin health and resilience

A healthy skin barrier keeps your complexion smooth, calm, and hydrated. When it becomes impaired, you may experience:

  • Redness or rosacea

  • Dryness or dehydration

  • Peeling or flakiness

  • Sensitivity to products or environmental triggers

  • Breakouts or worsening acne

What Causes Skin Barrier Damage?

At Tx Bar, we most commonly see barrier damage caused by:

  • Dehydration

  • Over-exfoliation or harsh skin treatments

  • Incorrect product usage

  • Environmental stress (e.g. extreme weather or sun exposure)

  • Illness, medications, or chronic stress

Our trained therapists are skilled in recognising these patterns and can tailor your skin plan accordingly.

What Is the Acid Mantle?

Your skin’s acid mantle is a naturally acidic film that helps defend against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It plays a key role in wound healing and preventing infection, especially if you’re experiencing acne or other skin disruptions. Using the wrong pH-balanced skincare can damage this important protective layer.

What Is the Skin Microbiome?

Just like your gut, your skin has a microbiome—a diverse population of good and bad bacteria. A healthy microbiome helps regulate inflammation, maintain barrier integrity, and support healing. Keeping your barrier and acid mantle intact is crucial to supporting this ecosystem.

How Can You Repair or Maintain a Healthy Skin Barrier?

One of the most effective ways to heal a compromised barrier is to simplify your skincare routine. Our team recommends:

  • Using pH-balanced cleansers

  • Choosing moisturisers that reduce water loss and protect skin integrity

  • Applying hydrating serums with proven ingredients

In-Clinic Treatments to Support Barrier Repair

Tx Bar offers in-clinic treatments that are suitable for compromised or sensitive skin, including:

  • LED light therapy to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation

  • Low-level lactic acid peels to gently exfoliate while hydrating

  • Barrier-focused masks such as:

    • Societe Peptide Sheet Mask

    • Aspect Probiotic Mask

These are also available for home use and are popular among both our staff and clients.

Recommended Home Care Products

Our trained skin therapists can guide you in selecting the right home care. Top picks include:

  • Aspect Dr Mild Clean – A gentle, glycerine-based cleanser with Canadian Willow Herb to calm the skin

  • Aspect Dr Redless – A nourishing, oil-based serum to reduce redness and support the barrier

  • PCA HA Boosting Serum – A deeply hydrating serum that enhances hyaluronic acid production

  • Skin Better Science Alto Defense – A high-performance antioxidant serum with ceramides to restore hydration and strengthen the skin

These medical-grade skincare products are available for purchase at Tx Bar and can be discussed in your consultation.

Need Advice or Support?

If you’re experiencing sensitivity, breakouts, or signs of barrier impairment, our highly trained team is here to help. We recommend a personalised skin consultation to assess your skin health and develop a treatment and product plan that’s right for you.

📞 Call us on 03 5222 3352
📅 Or book online here

All advice provided by Tx Bar is based on professional assessment by qualified skin therapists. Results may vary. Always consult with a trained professional before starting new treatments or products.