The permeability barrier function of skin is attributed to the stratum corneum. The barrier function can be weakened by exposure to environmental stressors, such as solvents and irritants, changes in skin microbiome (e.g. colonization by Staphylococcus aureus) and mutations in the filaggrin gene.
Barrier-strengthening treatments maintain a healthy skin and reduce risks for irritation and eczema. The addition of a component from the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) to formulations known to be stressful to the skin, such as e.g. alcohol-based tonics, has surprisingly been found to lower transepidermal water loss and reduce skin susceptibility to irritation.
 
Key points:
·       Cleansing the skin with harsh surfactants and solvents, such as e.g. alcohol, increase skin permeability and risks for eczema.
·       Treatment with barrier-improving substances reduces risks for irritation and delays relapse of eczema in patients with atopic dermatitis.
·       Prevention of eczema may also reduce risks for asthma.