Skin Barrier Breaks explores how everyday cleaning and cosmetic products can compromise our skin's natural defenses. The book investigates the impact of surfactants on the skin barrier, revealing how these chemicals, found in everything from soaps to detergents, can disrupt the stratum corneum, the skin's outermost layer. Readers will gain insight into how prolonged exposure to surfactants can lead to dryness, inflammation, and increased vulnerability to allergens, emphasizing the importance of informed consumer choices.
The book systematically examines the science behind skin damage, starting with the basics of skin barrier function and surfactant chemistry. It then delves into how surfactants interact with skin lipids and proteins, using barrier function studies, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements, and other scientific data to illustrate the mechanisms of damage.
The book also discusses surfactant-induced inflammation and immune responses, and explores strategies to minimize surfactant damage. Skin Barrier Breaks connects these findings to broader fields like dermatology and cosmetic chemistry, providing a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking to understand and protect their skin health.
