Episode 20: Barrier Breakdown — Repairing Over-Exfoliated, Angry Skin

Your skin barrier does more than just “hold everything in.” It keeps good things—like water and nutrients—inside while blocking out irritants, allergens, and microbes. But what happens when that barrier is damaged? In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee explain the science behind the skin barrier, the signs it’s compromised, and why over-exfoliation, hot showers, climate changes, and even your skincare products might be making things worse.

They share practical tips to prevent barrier damage, the ingredients that truly help restore it, and the myths that can keep your skin in a constant cycle of irritation. From ceramides and urea to Vaseline and niacinamide, Dustin and Austin unpack what really works when your skin is inflamed, dry, or breaking out. Plus, this week’s “Did You Know?” proves that dermatologists sometimes have the most entertaining names for common skin conditions.

Whether you’re battling redness, sensitivity, or just overdid it on actives, this episode is your roadmap to a healthy, resilient skin barrier.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — Dean Skincare Activi Advanced Therapy Repair Cream A dermatologist-formulated facial moisturizer with biologically identical lipids—ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids—in the perfect ratio to restore your skin barrier. Recommended for patients on retinols, dealing with dry skin, or recovering from irritation. Available here.