Barrier Repair & Redness Calming

Your Barrier Repair Protocol

Gentle, restorative ingredients to rebuild your skin's natural defence, reduce reactivity, and restore calm.

Barrier Rebuilding Essentials

Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)

Lipid Barrier Repair

Ceramides are the mortar between your skin cells. Depleted ceramides = a leaky barrier. Look for a moisturiser with all three ceramide types for full-spectrum repair.

Cholesterol + Fatty Acids

Barrier Lipid Trio

The ideal barrier repair ratio is 3:1:1 ceramides to cholesterol to fatty acids. Products containing all three repair the barrier significantly faster than ceramides alone.

Panthenol (Vitamin B5) 1–5%

Humectant & Soother

Deeply hydrating and anti-inflammatory. Accelerates wound healing and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Safe for the most reactive skin.

Calming Actives

Centella Asiatica (Cica)

Anti-inflammatory

Madecassoside and asiaticoside in Cica directly reduce inflammatory cytokines. Ideal for rosacea-prone and sensitised skin. Use morning and evening.

Azelaic Acid 10% (once barrier is stable)

Redness Reducer

Once your barrier has stabilised, Azelaic Acid is the gold standard for reducing persistent redness and flushing. It is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and safe for long-term use.

What to Avoid

Avoid Until Barrier is Repaired

  • Retinoids and high-strength AHAs/BHAs
  • Foaming or sulphate-based cleansers
  • Alcohol-based toners or astringents
  • Fragrance and essential oils in any product
  • Physical exfoliants (scrubs, brushes)

SPF

Mineral SPF 30–50 (Zinc Oxide / Titanium Dioxide)

UV Protection

Mineral SPF sits on top of the skin rather than penetrating it — far less irritating for a compromised barrier than chemical UV filters. Apply every morning as the final step.

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