Often when you think about your skin, your main focus is on its appearance - whether it is sufficiently hydrated, radiant and supple. But have you ever thought about its resilience? Your skin is your body's first line of defence. It is a shield that not only protects you from external factors, but also actively supports your immune system. We invite you to read this article to understand how the skin participates in your body's defence mechanisms and how you can strengthen its immunity, both with a balanced lifestyle and with the right cosmetics.

Skin - a living barrier and shield in one.

The skin has an extremely important function in our immune system. The epidermal layer, or more precisely its outermost part, the stratum corneum, is the first physical barrier between the body and the outside world. It is what makes it difficult for pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi) to penetrate deep into the tissues, while protecting the skin from water loss.

Another of our allies is microbiome - i.e. the myriad of micro-organisms found on the surface of the skin. Most of these are beneficial or neutral microorganisms. This microbiome changes with age and depends on many internal factors (e.g. hormonal balance) and external factors (climate, environment, skincare habits).

Why is the balance of the microbiome so important? A healthy microbial composition:

• protects the skin against colonisation by harmful pathogens,
• regulates the course of many metabolic processes,
• supports innate immunity,
• stimulates the immune system to respond efficiently in case of danger.

If the skin microbiome and the stratum corneum barrier are functioning properly, the skin retains its elasticity and is less prone to damage. An imbalance in these areas, on the other hand, promotes a number of problems such as temporary dryness, eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis or acne.

How can you support your skin's resilience?

1. Ensure proper hydration and nourishment: A strong, intact hydrolipidic barrier is the basis of healthy skin. Choose cosmetics enriched with ceramides, acids and humectants, i.e. substances that retain water molecules in the body (e.g. hyaluronic acid). These types of ingredients will help maintain optimum hydration levels and improve barrier tightness, supporting the natural defence mechanisms.
2. Support the microbiome: Reach for products that contain prebiotics or probiotics to help balance the skin microflora.
3. Eat a wholesome diet: A diet rich in antioxidants (vegetables, fruit), unsaturated fatty acids (avocados, nuts, fish) and protein (eggs, legumes) supports skin cell regeneration and improves skin barrier function. Remember that what you eat affects not only your well-being, but also the condition of your skin.
4. Avoid excessive stress: Stress has a negative impact on the body's immune system. It increases cortisol levels, which leads to skin barrier disorders such as dryness or hypersensitivity. During the day, try to find a form of relaxation that suits you: meditation, yoga, a walk or a moment with your favourite music. Your body, including your skin, will certainly thank you for it.
5. Adequate protection against UV radiation: The sun's harmful radiation damages skin cells and destroys collagen fibres. Use UV sunscreen every day, not just on hot days. This will prevent premature skin ageing, discolouration and reduce the risk of cancer.

The skin immune system and cosmetics.

Strengthening the skin's immunity is not only a matter of a proper diet or a healthy lifestyle, but also of thoughtful skincare. Daily cleansing of microbes, excess sebum and cosmetic residues is key to balancing the microbiome. Equally important is the use of moisturising cosmetics-healthy and nourishing for your skin.

Reach for formulations with a pure formulation and a proven strengthening effect. An example of such a product is Cremini retinol cream - When used regularly, it promotes the restoration of the skin's natural protective barrier and improves its hydration level.

Balanced care makes the skin less susceptible to damage, irritation or allergies. Regenerative processes occur more efficiently and the complexion regains a healthy, radiant appearance.

Supplementing from the outside with vitamins - the key to strengthening the skin barrier.

Although there is a lot of talk about supplementing vitamin deficiencies through diet and oral supplements, it is equally important to deliver them directly to the surface of the skin. In this way, the natural protective barrier can be strengthened and epidermal regeneration can be effectively promoted. Vitamins that have a particularly beneficial effect on the skin include:

• Vitamin C - stimulates collagen synthesis and improves skin elasticity, while also lightening discolouration.
• Vitamin E - protects the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress and has an anti-inflammatory effect thanks to its powerful antioxidant action.
• B vitamins - soothe irritation and accelerate regeneration, so that the skin recovers faster and stays in good condition for longer.
• Natural vitamin-rich plant oils and extracts - strengthen the hydrolipid barrier, preventing water loss and protecting the skin from drying out.

Regular use of vitamin-enriched cosmetics (e.g. Cremini vitamin oil) promotes optimal hydration, improves the skin's resilience and protects it from external factors.

Summary

The skin is not only our business card, but also our defence shield, in which the stratum corneum and the microbiome play a key role. It is worth taking care of it in many ways - from a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, to conscious care tailored to its needs. This will ensure that your skin's immune system functions properly and that you can enjoy your skin's beautiful appearance and health for many years to come.