Uses: Dehydrated skin

Bio-Oil helps replenish the skin’s natural oils that have been stripped away by factors such as:

• Frequent bathing/cleansing with harsh soaps
• Excessive perspiration
• Atmospheric conditions including exposure to the sun and wind
• Central heating and air conditioning
• Poor diet and/or insufficient water intake

Application

Bio-Oil should be applied twice daily to the affected area.

If Bio-Oil is used as part of a daily skincare regime, it should be applied before regular moisturizer as moisturizers can leave a residue which can block the absorption of Bio-Oil. Bio-Oil does however have sufficient moisturizing properties so as to render an additional moisturizer unnecessary. Bio-Oil does not contain sunscreen factor. Sunscreen should therefore be applied once Bio-Oil has been fully absorbed.

What is dehydrated skin and how is it formed?

Epidermal moisture levels should be approximately 20-30% in normal, healthy skin. Dehydrated skin occurs when moisture levels are less than 10%, and is caused by a reduction in the barrier properties of the skin, resulting in an increase in TEWL (transepidermal water loss).

While dehydrated skin lacks moisture, dry skin represents a shortage of sebum, the natural oil produced by the skin. Sebum helps to regulate TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and therefore helps to conserve the moisture levels in the skin.

The stages of dehydration in the skin

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4

The sebum (natural oil) on the surface of the skin is removed, reducing the skin’s ability to regulate the levels of water vapour entering and leaving the upper layers of the epidermis.

Water soluble substances in the upper layers of the epidermis are leached out during bathing/showering, rendering the skin unable to regulate its hydration levels.

The upper layers of the epidermis become dehydrated. This decreases the flexibility of the skin, and it becomes visibly dry and tight.

The skin cracks, allowing micro-organisms and irritant materials into the epidermis. This increases the possibility of infection and irritation.