The Barrier Disordered Skin

The skins principal role is the formation of the skin barrier defense systems and all of these functions and defense systems are interdependent on each other. When one system is not functioning optimally or damaged, there is a domino or knock-on effect to other cells and systems of the skin barrier defense. Skin has an ability to reflect changes in other cells and systems of the body, and this is often referred to as a “Site of Response”.

Many of the skin conditions presenting in clinics nowadays are increasingly related to some form of skin barrier disorder, and must be dealt with as a priority to secondary conditions. The skins principal role is the formation of the skin barrier defence systems and all of these functions and defence systems are interdependent on each other. This course introduces the principals and methodology of thinking that is corneotherapy: a remedial skin treatment methodology with its core principle being the repair and maintenance of the skin barrier defence systems. There have been significant milestones in our understanding of the skin over the past decade, and it is important that as skin care professionals, we keep abreast of this knowledge.

Our base knowledge of the keratinocyte life cycle has changed significantly over the last 5 years, and in this course, we will share our new understanding of the stratum corneum and barrier defense systems. What we once called hyperkeratinization is now known to be faulty or poor corneocyte compaction processes, and this understanding changes the way we will treat this skin. By understanding the compaction process of the keratinocyte and understanding the intricate pathway and formation of the essential lipids, we are now able to fully appreciate more about the skin that presents with barrier disorders. By learning more about how the skin has become compromised, we are able to prevent disorders and improve it.

This course explores both the epidermal and dermal cells & systems, providing the learner with a full review of the physical, biochemical and biological systems including:

• Learn to understand of how various skin conditions manifest due to system malfunction or failure
• That the dermis is a complex part of the skin that provides structure, strength, nutrient supply and waste disposal systems
• The importance of the Fibroblast cell
• A review of the five layers of the epidermis and seven components of the dermis
• How changes in the barrier defense systems cause inflammationThe cause of compromised barrier defense, and overactive innate immune systems

Typical completion time: 2 hours, 50 minutes.  This course is awarded 3 CPD points or 4 CE’s

This educational activity has been approved for 4.0 CEs by NCEA Commission on Accreditation.

Learning Objectives:



After completion of this online course, the skin care professional will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a full understanding of the epidermal lines of skin barrier defence.
2. Identify how barrier disorders affect the innate and adaptive immune systems and stimulate a continuing inflammatory response.
3. Explain What causes common keratolytic skin conditions and disorders and have a better understanding of contraindicated treatments and home care practice.
4. Demonstrate competency of course material.