1. Strengthen the Skin Barrier
When the barrier is healthy, it slows water loss.
Key ingredients:
- Ceramides — rebuild the lipid barrier
- Cholesterol & fatty acids — help seal moisture in
- Niacinamide (2–5%) — strengthens the barrier, reduces inflammation
- Panthenol (B5) — soothes and supports repair
2.Use Occlusives to Lock Moisture In
After hydrating, apply something that prevents water evaporation.
Good occlusives:
- Petrolatum (Vaseline) — most effective, even a thin layer works
- Lanolin
- Beeswax
- Squalane (lighter but still helpful)
💡 Slugging (very thin petrolatum layer) is useful for very dry or irritated skin—but avoid if acne-prone.
3.Add Humectants — Bring Water Into the Skin
Humectants pull moisture from the environment or deeper layers of skin.
Effective humectants:
- Glycerin (very strong)
- Hyaluronic acid
- Urea (low % for hydration)
- Aloe vera
⚠️ Always follow a humectant with an occlusive or moisturizer so water doesn’t evaporate.
4. Avoid or Reduce Barrier-Damaging Habits
These increase TEWL:
- Over-washing
- Hot water
- Harsh cleansers (avoid high-foaming, high-pH soaps)
- Too much exfoliation (AHAs/BHAs/retinoids)
- Fragrance or irritants if you’re sensitive
- Cold wind, dry air, strong sun
5. Improve Your Environment
Environmental dryness = higher TEWL.
- Use a humidifier, especially in winter
- Avoid long hot showers
- Stay hydrated internally (helps but isn’t the main solution)
Example TEWL-Minimizing Routine
AM
- Gentle low-pH cleanser (or rinse only if not oily)
- Hydrating serum (glycerin/HA/niacinamide)
- Ceramide moisturizer
- Sunscreen (very important for barrier protection)
PM
- Gentle cleanse
- Hydrating serum
- Rich barrier cream (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids)
- Optional thin occlusive layer on top