Skin Barrier 101: How Vitamin E, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid Keep Skin Healthy

Your skin barrier is the outermost layer that holds in water and keeps out irritants. When it is working well, skin looks plump, calm and even. When it is not, you may notice tightness, flaking, stinging or breakouts.

Three ingredients are especially helpful. Hyaluronic acid draws water into the skin, niacinamide supports the barrier and helps even tone, and vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect against everyday stress.

Look for these in your serum and cream, avoid over-exfoliating, and give your skin a few weeks to settle.