How do makeup and cleansing affect our skin cells?

Question

Hello doctor,

What happens to our skin on a cellular level when we put on makeup, cleanse, and as you finish cleansing, on a cellular level (that tight feeling)? Is it harmful to your skin to not have a barrier against the elements, even if it is in our home?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

We appreciate your interest in the skin system. The skin has several layers of cells packed closely together. This packing is due to cementing substances between the cells that do not allow external things to enter the body. However, the strength of this packing is weakened in dry skin, infections, skin diseases, and trauma.

When the skin is cleansed, the outer dead cells are eliminated, and the inner cells are hydrated. This makes the skin supple. But sometimes, after cleansing, the water evaporates and leaves the skin dry, making it tight. Makeup can be considered an external layer of substance applied to the skin.

If a moisturizer is used, it locks the water content in the skin and avoids tightening. If the application is physical, like a foundation, it forms a uniform layer of skin covering the openings of glands and follicles, too. This gives an even tone.

However, substances externally applied can enter the skin through weakened gaps between cells or through follicles or glands, leading to skin diseases. So, a sound skin barrier system is needed.

I hope I have addressed your query. If you need clarification, I am happy to help.

Thank you.