All products are independently selected by our editors.
If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Dermatologists wax poetic about changing your skin care routine with the seasons.
Collage: Gabrielle Langdon; Photos: Courtesy ofGlamourtesters
Well, damaged skin barriers arent just a winter issue.
TL;DR: barrier repair products act as a nourishing protective layer.
The best way to rebalance your complexion is with a barrier cream.
Original video from Mary Honkus testing Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream
Honestly, its unsurprising considering its gentle formulation and weightless texture.
In fact, when she uses this for two or three nights, her dry spots completely disappear.
This year I prepared for the worst and swapped my typical moisturizer for Dieuxs Instant Angel.
Original image from Mary Honkus testing Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream
This makes it one of the top choices for daytime use.
This is a reliable and affordable product for my ashy hands and super-dry lips.
This cream goes a step further than simply replenishing skin, though.
Original image from Mary Honkus testing Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream
The growth factor peptides plump the skin and specifically target fine lines and wrinklesa.k.a.
signs of agingand boosts elasticity with consistent daily use.
You might even see better antiaging results from this than your standardretinol treatment.
Original video byGlamourcontributor Mary Honkus testing Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer
The simpler the product is, the better it is for those with reactive skin.
If you fall into this category, Dr. Greenfield recommends this humectant-rich cream from Tower28.
While I dont have sensitive skin, I still rely on this cream when my dry skin feels unbalanced.
How could something so heavy be beneficial?
When the dryness appears, Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream comes to the rescue.
While its thick, its not super heavy or greasy, Kilkeary says.
Original photo from Mary Honkus testing Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer
I have combination, oily skin so I was hesitant to use this cream.
It doesnt feel heavy on my face and actually absorbs quickly, so I can wear it with makeup.
In fact, its been a great winter moisturizer, saysGlamours Calle.
Original photo from Mary Honkus testing Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer
After just a few moments it completely sinks into skin and doesnt leave behind a greasy finish whatsoever.
Dont be fooled by the small bottle.
Your skin barrier questions, answered
What do barrier repair creams do?
Original video byGlamoursenior commerce editor Jenifer Calle
Consider your skin barrier the gateway to your skin health.
When youre dealing with any sort of irritation or inflammationincluding acne or eczemayour skin barrier is most likely compromised.
This is where barrier repair creams come in to save the day.
Original video byGlamoursenior commerce editor testing Skinfix Barrier+ Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume
How are barrier repair creams different from regular moisturizers?
Despite both being creams, barrier repair creams and your everyday moisturizer function a bit differently.
Whereas a regular moisturizer typically just adds moisture to the skin.
Original photo from Jen Calle testing Skinfix Barrier+ Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume
How can I tell if my skin barrier is damaged?
How often should I use a barrier repair cream?
In this case, its totally fine to apply it once a day before bed.
Original photo from Jen Calle testing Skinfix Barrier+ Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume
Youll still experience the benefits from once-daily program.
Should everyone use a barrier repair cream?
Original photo from Mary Honkus testing Tower28 SOS Daily Barrier Recovery Cream
Original photo from Mary Honkus testing Tower28 SOS Daily Barrier Recovery Cream
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream
Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream
Original video byGlamoursenior commerce editor Jenifer Calle testing Rhode Barrier Restore Cream
Original photo from Jen Calle testing Rhode Barrier Restore Cream
Original photo from Jen Calle testing Rhode Barrier Restore Cream
Original video from Mary Honkus testing La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5
Original video from Mary Honkus testing La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5
