Understanding the skin barrier function is believably one of the most important tools professionals have in effectively treating clients’ skin concerns. More than understanding what it is, recognizing when the barrier is compromised helps properly guide treatment protocols and recommendations for a successful service outcome – and a happy client.  

Skin barrier healing has seemingly become a new buzz phrase, with online marketing campaigns targeting this concern, but skin professionals have recognized this strategy long before it was considered cool. Clients and consumers are finally seeing the bigger picture and narrative around healthy skin. This trending topic has true longevity and will only grow in popularity. It is up to the skin expert to have a full grasp on observing and treating a compromised barrier to accomplish clients’ goals. 

Elizabeth Brasher is a licensed aesthetician since 2011 and has been practicing with a strive for advanced skin care education ever since. Brasher is an aesthetician at Premier Med Spa in Richardson, Texas. She continues to devote herself to helping her colleagues by offering expert training, heading online aesthetics forums, and writing contributions to industry magazines. At the beginning of 2020, Brasher became DERMASCOPE Magazine’s lead in-house aesthetician.