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Beyond Cleansing: The Cleanser as a Conduit to Facilitate Skin Hydration and Barrier Repair

Dr. Aman Keshri 442 Views

Modern cleansing involves the removal of sebum, pollutants, sunscreen residue, and debris while maintaining skin barrier integrity.[1][2] Gentle, pH-compatible, non-soap cleansers can reduce excessive lipid extraction, protein disruption, tightness, and post-cleansing irritation. Maintaining the acid mantle and minimizing disruption of the skin surface environment are particularly important for sensitive, rosacea-prone, atopic, acne-prone, and post-procedure skin. Barrier-supportive ingredients such as ceramides, niacinamide, panthenol, allantoin, and dimethicone may support hydration and skin comfort.[3][4] Cleanser selection should consider skin type, disease state, and patient preference, with appropriate cleansing techniques and moisturizer use. Avoiding hot water, vigorous scrubbing, and unnecessary exfoliation can further support barrier comfort and tolerance of topical therapies.[5][6]

Reference(s):

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3425021/

2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29231284/

3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8954092/

4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607907/

5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16864974/

6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/