The Root Cause
“Barrier dysfunction is one of the most common causes of skin irritation,” says Lucy. “When the skin barrier is compromised, moisture escapes and it becomes easier for irritants, allergens, and microbes to penetrate — leading to redness, sensitivity, and flare-ups. Triggers can be anything from over-cleansing and over-exfoliating to sun exposure or a shift in the seasons.”
The result? Irritated, inflamed skin — or just a lack of glow.