It’s that time of year when the weather changes, the central heating goes on and suddenly your skin might have a whole new set of demands. If your face is feeling dry, easily irritated, and tight, chances are you could benefit from one of the best barrier boosters to soothe, moisturise and strengthen your skin.
The best skin strengthening products work by replenishing your natural protective barrier, which is crucial for keeping your complexion calm and happy. One of the key ingredients to look out for is ceramides, something that’s found naturally in your skin. These fats act like a kind of protective “cement” between skin cells, locking in moisture and keeping irritants and germs out. Hyaluronic acid, probiotics and plant oils are also often found in skin strengthening products.
In general, the best barrier boosting skincare can be really helpful if your face is suffering from flare-ups or can’t seem to hold in moisture. To find out what’s going to make a difference to the comfort and look of your skin, we asked our testers to trial the latest barrier boosters – here’s what they told us was the best.
Best barrier boosters tried and tested
Honey soother
Farmacy Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturising Cream £42 here
Soothing, hydrating buckwheat honey gives a dewy glow, while plant ceramides replenish the skin barrier.
Tester Natasha says: “Sinks in easily, it's more of a gel so it’s really nice and refreshing. It’s left my skin smooth and radiant, with less redness. I’ve had fewer blemishes too. A friend told me that my skin was glowing, they asked me what I was using that was different. At first I wondered if this product was maybe too expensive but after a few weeks of using it and seeing the difference I think it is worth it.” 5/5
Magic mist
Pai Century Flower Lotus & Hyaluronic Acid Barrier Defence Mist £39 here
A moisturising, soothing face mist clinically proven to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, meaning fewer flare-ups.
Tester Janine says: “Initially I didn't see the point of a mist. I didn't see how it would moisturise my skin. However, I fell in love with the amazing smell, and as I continued to use it I became hooked. It really did the job of hydrating, it didn’t need rubbing in as it’s such a fine mist and it doesn’t leave my skin greasy. My skin looks less red, feels less irritated and I look fresh. I’ll definitely buy another.” 5/5
Fast worker
Trilogy Microbiome Complexion Renew Serum £29.50 here
This plumping, antioxidant-rich serum promises to boost skin’s friendly bacteria diversity in a week and reduce redness in three days.
Tester Suzanne says : “The serum is really lightweight and absorbs well. I'm really happy with what this serum has done for my skin so far. It feels softer, more hydrated and generally looks healthier. I feel I have a more even tone and my skin looks and feels brighter.” 4/5
Amazing value
Dove Dermaseries Restoring Overnight Face Cream £13 here
Part of a derm-approved skin range to stimulate the skin’s own ceramide production, building a healthy barrier from within.
Tester Lisa says: “Better than any overnight cream I’ve ever tried… and I’ve tried a lot, including much more expensive ones! Smells great, has the perfect texture and it’s in a tube so there’s less waste. My skin feels great when applying this; it’s smooth and soft, and not dry the next morning. I was told my skin looked healthy. Love it! It really works.” 5/5
Great all-rounder
The Seated Queen Cassiopeia's Serum Concentrate £59 here
This soothing serum builds the lipid barrier using niacinamide, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and organic seed oils.
Tester Mandy says: “It glides beautifully onto the skin and it doesn't cause pilling of other products. I think this is a great all-round serum, with many active ingredients. My skin is smooth and hydrated with a clear and even tone. It looks healthy with a lovely glow that makes it look more youthful. This is quickly becoming one of my favourite serums.” 5/5
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