Montagne Jeunesse: “People are overdoing their skincare routines and harming themselves”

12 Jan 2023 --- As we pass through another cold winter, Montagne Jeunesse stresses one of the most significant skincare takeaways of the year: “good skin health is all about a robust skin barrier.”

Elaborating on the value of simplicity in the skincare routine, the company shares insights into the skin barrier and a rise in awareness of its properties on social media. Moreover, it explains how key ingredients such as Shilajit, clay mixtures, kombucha and turmeric in facial masks, can help aid the skin against aggressors.

“The key to keeping skin healthy is to use a simple skincare routine that you can easily stick to, giving your skin everything it needs,” David English, head of labs at Montagne Jeunesse, tells PersonalCareInsights. 

“Problems occur when the skin starts acting differently and unpredictably. You might think you’re giving your skin what it needs with many active ingredients and hardworking products. By trying to treat a concern, you end up making things much worse and can cause inflammation, more breakouts and a sore skin barrier.”

He explains that the skin barrier should not be stripped of its essential moisture as it can lead to skin problems.

“Combine the stress of the holiday season with the brisk temperatures outside. You should look for a reparative mask that will hydrate your skin deeply. Look for ingredients on labels like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalene or a moisturizing nut-derived oil,” advises English.Montagne Jeunesse works with third-party certification agencies like the Soil Association, COSMOS, Cruelty Free International and PETA.

“So many people are overdoing it with their skincare routines and harming themselves. We’d strongly encourage you to take the time to understand your skin issues and address them individually, not simultaneously.”

More than just a buzzword?
The term “skin barrier” is prevalent and has become a buzzword often spotted on lotions, in the press – and when visiting the dermatologist, “it is all they’ll talk about.”

Montagne Jeunesse shares that skin barrier health is trending, with the #skinbarrier garnering 2.5 billion views on TikTok and 187.5 million views on the search term “skin barrier repair.”

English defines the skin barrier as the outermost layer of your skin that serves as a protective shield for your face. “Its role is to protect your skin from environmental stressors, irritation and inflammation while holding on to all the good stuff.”

“Technically, your skin barrier is called the stratum corneum, filled with a whole system of cells and lipids that form a barrier to keep your skin healthy. The cells, or corneocytes, are the bricks in your skin barrier, while the mortar is made of various lipids, like cholesterol and ceramides. And each piece is vital in keeping the ecosystem of your face happy,” he details.

Despite the many buzzwords that quickly fall out of fashion, Montagne Jeunesse believes that the concept of nurturing your skin barrier isn’t going anywhere. This is because a healthy skin barrier, responsible for how the skin looks and feels, is one of the most critical aspects of the skin.

Masking the damage
English stresses that too much of anything is never good. This is why masks bolt on the extra ingredients the skin needs at optimal points throughout the week. “With just a little input, you could be letting yourself in for a boost of luminosity, hydration and pore-refining.”

Montagne Jeunesse elaborates on maintaining the skin barrier as a damaged barrier can not seal in fatty acids, cholesterol and ceramides – leaving the skin rough, dehydrated, sometimes sensitive and flat looking.English advises using charcoal face masks only once a month, not more than that.

The company suggests its Earth Kiss Inspirations Hydrating Organic Bamboo Sheet Face Mask with Shilajit and Miracle Clay for a radiant complexion. 

The mask combats redness and sensitivity with willow tree bark, which contains high salicylic content – traditionally used to relieve pain and injuries. The natural hydroxy acids exfoliate and cleanse pores. This is paired with mineral-rich salts from the Dead Sea and the Ayurvedic wonder resin, Shilajit, to unclog pores, smooth fine lines and hydrate the skin.

“Clay face masks usually suit all skin types and do not irritate the skin. Depending on the type of clay you use, clay masks can battle acne, dark spots and signs of photoaging. They can also remove excess oil from your face,” explains English.

“Peel-off face masks remove the upper dead skin layer, whiteheads and blackheads. However, exfoliating too frequently can hurt your skin. To avoid this, a peel-off mask should be used once every two weeks. You can use a gentle face scrub once a week to exfoliate the dead skin layer and reveal smooth, soft and  glowing skin.”

Bacteria-bound
Montagne Jeunesse also suggests its Earth Kiss SuperNaturals Kombucha and Turmeric Detoxifying Clay Face Mask remove toxins and promote a healthy skin barrier.

Kombucha has been known as an “immortal elixir” in Asia and Russia, shares the company, and has been consumed for its health-promoting, body-energizing and detoxifying properties from the symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY).

Scientists have now found that the friendly microbes in kombucha can also improve skin health by balancing out harmful bacteria and promoting the production of the good kind. It also contains vitamins B1, B6, B12 and vitamin C.

Montagne Jeunesse shares that #skinbarrier has garnered 2.5 billion views on TikTok.“By harnessing the power of natural ingredients, you can maximize the seasonal support your skin requires,” English comments. 

“We are committed to making safe, clean products that deliver real results, free of ingredients linked to harmful health effects. Beyond that, we care for the environment, prioritizing ethically sourced ingredients, non-animal origin, and cruelty-free; we use sustainable or renewable bio-based sources wherever possible.”

Last September, Montagne Jeunesse highlighted the impacts of weather transitions on the skin and how these can be mitigated with its CBD Infused Hydration Mask.

“Less is more”
Montagne Jeunesse notes that even if applying expensive skincare ingredients does not help dry or sensitive skin, it is a sign that the skin barrier is compromised. Despite having good intentions to care for the skin, a 20-step skincare routine might be causing “serious harm.”

“Skin can be ashy or flaky and feel irritated (or sting) after any chemical formula is applied – or thanks to overzealous use of actives. You might also experience acne breakouts, rosacea and eczema. The skin might appear redder or darker than its original color; itchiness is a common symptom,” shares the company.

“We tend to think more is better,” comments English. “But first, you should identify and exclude any triggers contributing to skin barrier damage. Strip your skincare routine back and keep it simple.”

“Your skincare routine should include a gentle face wash in the morning and night, a hydrating face mask, but – most importantly – a rich barrier-repair cream.”

By Venya Patel