How To Protect Your Skin Barrier & Microbiome - Are You Getting This Wrong?

Is your skincare routine helping your skin... or actually damaging it? Welcome to the After Hours Skin Clinic, the podcast where the skincare conversation never stops. In this episode Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid return with Dermatology's Golden Rule #2: Understand your skin barrier and microbiome. Your skin barrier is thinner than cling film, yet it’s your body’s first line of defense, keeping moisture in and irritants out. When it’s damaged, you’ll see it in dryness, redness, breakouts, and sensitivity. In this episode, Emma and Ellie break down what your skin barrier actually does, how your microbiome helps to keep it balanced, and what happens when things go wrong. They explore the ingredients that strengthen or sabotage your barrier, the skincare habits that cause more harm than good, and what to do if you’ve over-exfoliated or over-treated your skin. You’ll also hear why “less is more” is often the secret to healthy, resilient skin, and why cleansing, moisturising, and daily SPF remain the real golden trio. Finally, Emma and Ellie take a closer look at viral trends like the caveman routine, exploring why skipping skincare altogether can be just as damaging. This is your weekly dermatologist-led masterclass in skin science. Listen and learn how to protect the delicate ecosystem that keeps your skin glowing, balanced, and strong. Products mentioned: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm Ap+M Moisturiser For Dry Skin The DayScript by Klira  Avène Tolérance range Uriage Bariederm Cica-Cream Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser SVR Topialyse Gel Wash _____ Have any questions? Send them over to ⁠[email protected]⁠  Find us on Instagram ⁠@AfterHoursSkinClinic⁠ _____ ⁠Klira⁠ - Founded by Dr Emma Craythorne, Klira is a bespoke luxury skincare formula prescribed by dermatologists. You may hear it mentioned from time to time on the podcast and if you want to find out more head over to ⁠klira.skin⁠ Producer: Ella Blaxill Series Editor: Eve Streeter Music by Simon Elms. This is a Raconteur Studios Production.