Your skin is exposed to external factors every day – pollution, UV radiation, temperature changes, and dry indoor air. The skin's hydrolipid barrier serves as a natural protective shield, protecting the epidermis from dehydration, irritation, and loss of elasticity. When it functions properly, skin is soft, smooth, and resistant to damage. However, when it becomes weakened, problems such as dryness, roughness, hypersensitivity, and even inflammation quickly arise.
Awareness of the role of the hydrolipid barrier is key to effective skincare and healthy skin. Therefore, in this article, we explain:
- what is the hydrolipid barrier and what function does it perform,
- what damages it and what symptoms it causes,
- what active ingredients and cosmetics support its regeneration,
- how natural care and appropriate products, e.g. with ceramides and vegetable oils, help rebuild the skin barrier.
Thanks to this knowledge, you will learn how to easily improve the condition of your skin and enjoy its healthy, radiant appearance.
What is the skin's hydrolipid barrier?
The hydrolipid barrier is a natural protective layer found on the skin's surface and plays a key role in maintaining its health. It consists of a layer of lipids (fats), water, and dead skin cells. It can be compared to a "protective wall" that protects the skin's interior from water loss and the harmful effects of external factors.
When the barrier functions properly, it retains moisture in the epidermis and protects it from pollutants, allergens, microorganisms, and UV radiation. This leaves the skin supple, smooth, and less susceptible to irritation. However, if the hydrolipid barrier is compromised—for example, by the use of harsh detergents, frequent exfoliation, or unfavorable environmental conditions—the skin loses its natural protection, becoming dry, sensitive, and susceptible to damage.
That's why it's so important to understand how the hydrolipid barrier works and which active ingredients help rebuild it. Conscious skincare can strengthen the skin's natural defenses and prevent many problems, including excessive dryness, irritation, and premature aging.
Composition of the hydrolipid barrier – lipids, NMF and keratinocytes
The skin's hydrolipid barrier isn't a uniform layer—it's composed of various components that collectively contribute to its tightness and protective function. It's the balance between lipids, natural moisturizing factor (NMF), and keratinocytes that determines whether the skin will be healthy, resilient, and well-hydrated.
Lipids – natural skin fats
Lipids act as a "mortar" that holds the cells of the stratum corneum together. They include:
- ceramides – responsible for maintaining the integrity of the barrier,
- fatty acids – enhance protection against TEWL (water loss),
- cholesterol – stabilizes the structure of the epidermis.
Thanks to them, the skin remains elastic, resistant to irritation and less susceptible to dryness.
NMF – natural moisturizing factor
NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor) is a complex of substances that bind water in the epidermis. Its components include:
- hyaluronic acid,
- amino acids,
- urea,
- lactates.
Thanks to them, the skin does not lose moisture and remains soft and smooth.
Keratinocytes – the “bricks” in the skin structure
Keratinocytes are the primary cells of the epidermis that produce keratin , a protein that gives skin its strength. They form "bricks" that, together with lipids ("mortar"), create a tight barrier protecting the skin from external factors.
Functions of the hydrolipid barrier for the skin
The hydrolipid barrier plays not only a protective role but also a regulating and moisturizing one. It helps the skin maintain its health, elasticity, and youthful appearance.
Protection against moisture loss (TEWL)
One of the key functions of the hydrolipid barrier is to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) . Thanks to lipids and NMF, the skin retains water within the epidermis, protecting it from dryness, roughness, and loss of elasticity.
Protection against external factors
The barrier acts as a shield, protecting against:
- environmental pollution,
- allergens,
- UV radiation,
- microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses).
This reduces the risk of infection and inflammation.
Regulating the skin microbiome
Billions of microorganisms live on the skin's surface, making up the skin's microbiome . A healthy hydrolipid barrier supports a balance of "good bacteria" that protect against the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
Homeostasis and cell renewal
The hydrolipid barrier helps maintain the skin's metabolic balance. It regulates processes such as:
- cell renewal,
- healing of microdamages,
- maintaining the proper pH of the skin.
As a result, the skin looks healthy, remains firm and ages slower.
Symptoms of a damaged hydrolipid barrier
When the skin's hydrolipid barrier is weakened, the body immediately signals this. Symptoms can range from mild dryness to chronic inflammation. Ignoring these symptoms leads to worsening skin condition and impeding regeneration.
Dryness and tightness
The skin loses its ability to retain water, which is manifested by:
- dryness,
- roughness,
- unpleasant feeling of tension after washing.
Irritations and hypersensitivity
A weakened barrier is more susceptible to:
- redness,
- itch,
- burning after applying cosmetics.
Skin hyperreactivity often occurs even to gentle care products.
Tendency to inflammation
A damaged barrier promotes the development of:
- acne,
- eczema,
- atopic dermatitis (AD).
Bacteria and allergens penetrate the epidermis more easily, which intensifies skin symptoms.
Microbiome imbalance
A disturbed protective layer leads to a reduction in the number of "good bacteria" and the development of pathogenic microorganisms, which further worsens the condition of the skin.
How to rebuild the hydrolipid barrier? (step-by-step care)
Rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier requires patience and carefully selected cosmetics. Gentle cleansing formulas, moisturizing active ingredients, and products that strengthen the skin's lipid layer are key.
Step 1. Gentle cleansing
Aggressive detergents and strong cleansers (e.g., those containing SLS or alcohol) damage the skin's protective barrier. Therefore, choose products with gentle cleansing agents.
Recommended from Orientana: Gentle Date and Inulin Facial Wash Gel – effectively removes impurities, and thanks to inulin and date extract, it supports the balance of the skin microbiome.Step 2. Toning and moisturizing
Restoring the skin's proper pH and hydration is the basis for barrier regeneration.
Recommended from Orientana : Tonic-essence Date, Gluconolactone, Proteins – combines the effects of tonic and essence, gently exfoliates, strengthens the hydrolipid barrier and intensively moisturizes.
Step 3. Serum rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier
This stage delivers active ingredients in concentrated form. The following work best:
- ceramides ,
- hyaluronic acid ,
- niacinamide .
Recommended from Orientana :
- Advanced Skin Repair Serum Reishi Cerafluid® – contains liquid ceramides that fill “gaps” in the lipid barrier.
- Hydration serum-ampoule with ashwagandha – rich in hyaluronic acid and natural extracts, intensively binds water in the epidermis.
- Ashwagandha + CICA + Niacinamide Serum – supports skin regeneration, has anti-inflammatory properties and strengthens protection against oxidative stress.
Step 4. Lipid layer rebuilding cream
The cream should create a protective film that prevents water loss and protects against external factors.
Recommended from Orientana :
- Reishi Day Cream / Reishi Night Cream – intensively nourish and rebuild the protective barrier.
- Kali Musli Day and Night Cream – contains the innovative ingredient CARESOFT™, which reduces skin reactivity and accelerates the regeneration of the hydrolipid barrier.
- Comfortable nourishing cream Hello Daktyl - ideal for dry and sensitive skin, strengthens the lipid layer and soothes irritations.
- Sandalwood and Turmeric Balance Cream - perfectly nourishes, regulates and strengthens the hydrolipid barrier.
Step 5. UV protection
Sun exposure is one of the main factors damaging the skin's barrier. Daily use of a sunscreen is essential for skincare to support regeneration.
The most important ingredients supporting the hydrolipid barrier
Regenerating and maintaining the proper function of the hydrolipid barrier requires the provision of appropriate active ingredients. These ingredients rebuild lipids, bind water in the epidermis, and strengthen the skin's resistance to external factors.
Ceramides - the foundation of a healthy barrier
Ceramides are lipids naturally present in the skin that act as a "cement" that holds epidermal cells together. Their deficiency leads to dryness and hypersensitivity. When supplied in cosmetics, they fill gaps in the lipid barrier, accelerating its reconstruction.
Orientana recommends: Advanced Skin Repair Serum Reishi Cerafluid® - liquid ceramides that effectively strengthen the protective barrier and improve skin elasticity.
Natural vegetable oils - lipid restoration
Vegetable oils are a source of fatty acids, which regenerate the lipid layer and protect the skin from water loss. They enhance its elasticity and additionally provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Orientana recommends: Ayurvedic Ashwagandha face cream or Sandalwood and Turmeric Cream - rich in natural plant oils that nourish and rebuild the skin.
Hyaluronic acid and NMF - intense hydration
Hyaluronic acid and other components of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF), such as amino acids and urea, retain water in the epidermis and protect against excessive moisture loss. This makes the skin softer, smoother, and more supple.
Orientana recommends: Hydration Serum Ampoule with Ashwagandha – intensely moisturizes and regenerates skin, reducing tightness. Hydro Tremella Elixir Serum with Exosomes – provides long-lasting hydration and regeneration.
CARESOFT™ - an innovative soothing and regenerating ingredient
CARESOFT™ is a bioactive Curculigo orchioides root extract that reduces skin reactivity and supports its regeneration. Studies show that it reduces irritation by up to 65% and accelerates the regeneration of the hydrolipid barrier by 20%.
Orientana recommends: Kali Musli Day Cream , Kali Musli Night Cream and Kali Musli Enzymatic Peeling – formulas designed for sensitive and weakened skin.
How to strengthen the hydrolipid barrier with Orientana cosmetics
Proper skincare is key to regenerating and protecting the hydrolipid barrier. Orientana offers a wide range of natural cosmetics containing ceramides, plant oils, hyaluronic acid, and innovative bioactive ingredients. These ingredients help the skin regain its balance, become more resistant to irritation, and maintain a healthy appearance.
1. Cleansing - a gentle care base
- Gentle Date and Inulin facial cleansing gel - removes impurities without disturbing the lipid barrier, supports the skin microbiome and provides a feeling of comfort after washing.
- Kantola facial cleansing foam - gently cleanses without damaging the hydrolipid barrier, moisturizes and soothes the skin.
2. Toning and essences
- Moisturizing tonic-essence) Date and Gluconolactone – combines the functions of tonic and essence, restores the proper pH, gently exfoliates and deeply moisturizes.
- Rose Soothing Tonic - restores pH, soothes and nourishes the skin.
3. Serum strengthening the hydrolipid barrier
- Advanced Skin Repair Serum Reishi Cerafluid® – contains liquid ceramides that rebuild the skin’s lipid layer and improve its elasticity.
4. Creams that strengthen the hydrolipid barrier
- Reishi Day Cream – nourishes and protects the skin against external factors.
- Reishi Night Cream – supports the regeneration process and strengthens the barrier during sleep.
5. Peeling supporting regeneration
- Kali Musli Enzymatic Peeling – gently removes dead skin cells
What are home remedies (DIY cosmetics) for regenerating the barrier?
While ready-made dermocosmetics and natural formulas, such as Orientana products, are most effective in rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier, it can also be supported with simple DIY recipes. At-home skincare routines utilize natural ingredients that moisturize, soothe, and rebuild the skin's lipid layer.
Moisturizing rose tonic
Ingredients:
- 50 ml of rose hydrolate,
- 5 ml of vegetable glycerin,
- a few drops of panthenol.
Action: soothes, restores the skin's pH and supports its hydration.
Protective cream with shea butter and avocado oil
Ingredients:
- 30 g shea butter,
- 10 g avocado oil,
- 5 ml of vitamin E.
Action: strengthens the lipid layer, protects against water loss, regenerates dry and sensitive skin.
Serum based on aloe and hyaluronic acid
Ingredients:
- 20 ml aloe gel,
- 5 ml of jojoba oil,
- 3 drops of hyaluronic acid (1%).
Action: intensively moisturizes, soothes and strengthens the skin barrier.
Regenerating yogurt and honey mask
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of natural yogurt,
- 1 teaspoon of honey,
- 1 teaspoon sweet almond oil.
Action: moisturizes, soothes irritations, supports cell regeneration.
It is worth remembering that home recipes should avoid aggressive ingredients such as alcohol or scrubs with sharp particles, which can further weaken the hydrolipid barrier.
FAQ – frequently asked questions about the hydrolipid barrier
1. Is it possible to rebuild the hydrolipid barrier?
Yes, rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier is possible. It requires the use of gentle cleansers, intensive moisturizing, and products with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and plant oils. Regular care helps restore its proper function.
2. How long does it take to regenerate the hydrolipid barrier?
The first results can be seen after just a few days of using proper care. Full barrier restoration takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the degree of damage and the skin's predisposition.
3. What cosmetics are best for rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier?
The best ones are:
- serum with ceramides,
- creams with natural oils,
- products with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide,
- soothing cosmetics with innovative ingredients (e.g. CARESOFT™).
4. Does a damaged hydrolipid barrier cause acne?
Yes. A weakened barrier allows bacteria and pollutants to penetrate deeper into the skin, increasing the risk of inflammation and breakouts. Restoring this barrier helps reduce the severity of acne.
5. Can ceramides be used daily?
Yes, ceramides can be used daily, even twice a day. These are ingredients naturally occurring in the skin that, in cosmetics, accelerate regeneration and protect against moisture loss.
6. What causes damage to the hydrolipid barrier?
The barrier is weakened by: aggressive cleansing agents, cosmetics containing alcohol, excessive exfoliation with acids and retinoids, hot baths, dry air, frost, wind, stress, lack of sleep, and a diet poor in healthy fats.
7. Does diet and drinking water help rebuild the skin barrier?
Yes. Consuming omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (e.g., fish, nuts, flaxseed), vitamins A, C, and E, and staying properly hydrated support a healthy barrier from the inside.
8. Does atopic or acne-prone skin need barrier reconstruction more?
Yes, people with atopic dermatitis, eczema, or acne have a hydrolipid barrier that is particularly susceptible to damage. Strengthening it is essential in treating sensitive and problematic skin.
9. How to recognize a damaged hydrolipid barrier?
Symptoms include: dryness, tightness, burning, redness, flaking, hypersensitivity to cosmetics, and increased susceptibility to inflammation and acne.
10. Does a cream with a UV filter accelerate the regeneration of the barrier?
Yes. UV radiation damages skin lipids and proteins, so daily SPF protection prevents further damage and supports the regeneration of the hydrolipid barrier.
11. How to properly apply cosmetics to support the barrier?
The rule of thumb is to work from lightest to heaviest formulas. First, apply a water-based serum, then a nourishing oil serum, then a cream, and finally, an SPF. It's best to apply moisturizers to slightly damp skin.
12. What should you do if you experience tightness and burning after cleansing your face?
This is a sign that the barrier is weakened. In such cases, you should stop using aggressive cleansers and exfoliants and instead introduce gentle gels, soothing toners, ceramide serums, and emollient creams.
13. Can makeup damage the barrier?
Yes. Makeup itself isn't harmful, but improper removal (e.g., rubbing vigorously or using harsh products) can damage the barrier. It's best to remove makeup with an oil, milk, or micellar water, followed by a gentle gel.
14. What are the symptoms of skin damage around the eyes?
The skin on the eyelids is thin and delicate, so it loses its protection more quickly. Symptoms of barrier damage include dryness, itching, burning, micro-cracks, eczema, and hyperreactivity. It requires particularly gentle and emollient care.
All the above-mentioned Orientana cosmetics can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
