Our skin barriers face battles on a daily basis, not just in winter. There are heaps of reasons that contribute to its damage, such as pollution, harsh climates, cigarette smoke, stress – even over-exfoliating can wreak havoc on the skin. The best way to keep your skin barrier in tip-top shape is to keep it protected as much as you can with rich skin protectant balms that help seal in moisture and prevent further loss. Balms are also known for their healing agents, which soothe irritated or cracked skin.
Here’s how to tell if your barrier’s damaged: is it feeling overly tingly, burny, itchy, sensitive, flaky or dry? If you’ve answered yes to two or more of those conditions, we suggest it’s worth investing in a skin balm. Here, our favourite picks…
The Multi-Tasking Balm
Multi-tasking products mean saving time and coins, plus they’re compact and usually travel-friendly. We love the convenience of Skin Proud’s Everything Balm – it works effectively on any dry area on your skin thanks to its ultra-hydrating formula of coconut oil and jojoba oil. Pop some onto your lips, elbows, cuticles – any part of your body that needs extra moisture, really. Our tip: If your lips feel dry, don’t lick them. This will dry them out more. Turn to your trusty balm instead.
The Iconic Balm
This award-winning balm was created in the eighties and continues to be a favourite among beauty editors worldwide. With countless awards under her belt, the Clarins Beauty Flash Balm has truly earned the title of the most iconic balm. Packed with ingredients to protect, hydrate, nourish and soothe the skin, this balm can be used as a treatment/mask or mixed with your foundation to create a tinted moisturiser. Or, if you want to give your skin a big moisture boost, use it in conjunction with your day cream. It adds pep and radiance to tired-looking skin after just one use.
The Body Balm
Cover your body in Jo Malone London’s Vitamin E Body Balm – a concentrated moisturiser created to soothe and hydrate extremely dry skin on the body. It absorbs like a dream, leaving no traces of greasy residue once applied, and leaves your skin smelling heavenly too. We suggest applying this onto damp skin as soon as you get out of the shower or bath – this is a top tip for sealing in the skin’s moisture. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant known to strengthen a damaged skin barrier. It’s also a no-brainer for assisting super-dry skin and promoting cell turnover.
The Overnight Balm
Out of all the balms on this list, this one is undoubtedly the most luxe. The La Prairie Pure Gold Radiance Nocturnal Balm has a gold-infused silky cream formula that replenishes and refines the skin. It provides tired-feeling skin with energy while you sleep and deeply hydrates. Suitable for all skin types, this uber-lush cream is the ultimate indulgence for your skin. To get the most out of this product, we suggest massaging it in with the Nocturnal Massage Stone (this is included with your purchase). Start off by applying a small amount of the balm onto the skin. Then, press the curve of the stone onto the acupressure point between the eyebrows. Next, apply light strokes over the face and neck and finish in the centre of the forehead. Go back to the middle of your eyebrows and apply pressure. Hold it there. Then repeat the ritual again, adjusting the pressure accordingly. Thank us later!
The Eye and Lip Contour Balm
This special balm targets two areas that always need extra TLC. The Sisley Paris Baume Efficace: Eye and Lip Contour Balm takes care of the skin around your eyes and lips, fighting any forms of dryness with just 1-2 applications. This little miracle pot helps to de-puff the under-eye area, making it look fresh and youthful at all times. The formula has a potent combo of natural plant ingredients, which help smooth the skin and lighten fine lines and wrinkles. Use your ring finger to gently pat the gel into your skin. A little goes a long way with this product – it’s a great skinvestment.
