What Is A Barrier Cream? How To Use It Accurately + Greatest Merchandise

“Comparable in method, they’re intently associated however not essentially an identical,” says board-certified dermatologist Ava Shamban, M.D., founding father of SKINFIVE. So whereas they do typically comprise moisturizing properties, you would not need to use a barrier cream the identical means as a moisturizer (extra on that later). Certain, some manufacturers will title their fatty-acid-rich moisturizers “barrier lotions,” however simply know that the 2 aren’t so interchangeable. 

“Barrier lotions are normally thicker than common moisturizers and normally type a skinny layer on prime of the pores and skin as an alternative of melting and disappearing into the pores and skin when utilized,” says Rodney. “If you’re trying to hydrate dry and itchy pores and skin, you need to use a moisturizer. If you’re in search of an added layer of pores and skin safety towards wind or harsh climate over already moisturized pores and skin, you should utilize a barrier cream.” 

Consider it this manner: Barrier lotions do not precisely hydrate your pores and skin, however they do preserve hydration locked inside. Shamban agrees: “They do greater than introduce moisture; they have protectants and actives to work on reducing irritation, preventing redness, lowering itch, repairing and strengthening intracellular constructing blocks of the stratum corneum layers,” she says.