How many times have you heard affirmed and denied it by now? And what is the truth?
The time has come for some clarity.
I would start by immediately answering this question: skin does not breathe, not really at least.
It sounds like a simple question, but actually the answer is not entirely unambiguous.
We could say that according to the literal meaning of the verb “to breathe” then no, skin does not breathe. The skin does not possess lungs to breathe and absorb oxygen.
There is a though, however, which lies in the meaning that those who claim that the skin breathes want to give to this phrase instead.
In fact, the verb “to breathe” is often misused to suggest a concept of freedom.
Upon hearing the word “breathe” one is reminded of a hiker who from the top of a cliff, with the wind in the hair and the sun in the face, takes an endless breath of air and freedom.
Breathing is life.
And the skin, the skin is alive, and even if it is not breathing, it has to be left free so that it can go about its daily business in the best possible way.
The reason is very simple, our skin interacts with its environment inside and out and does so by absorbing or releasing substances.
The pores that dot it are nothing more than tiny doors, through which elements enter and leave. They absorb the active ingredients of our skin-care products, passing them inside, or they expel substances such as toxins or sweat.
It is essential that these little doors, our pores, remain wide open at all times, to allow our skin to do this important work of exchange.
Our skin, or rather our pores, must always remain free and… breathe 😊
This is only possible by keeping the skin clean and exfoliated, and by avoiding the use of occlusive cosmetic substances that can block pores and their activity.
If taken literally then our starting sentence is incorrect, however
how often do we misuse the term “breathe”?
“Don’t cover the wound, let it breathe.”
“Leave the mattress in front of the window to let it breathe.”
“Your hair will break if you keep it tied all the time, let it breathe once in a while.”
So it is not so unusual that this word was chosen to suggest the importance of leaving the skin free of occlusive substances to keep it healthy.
I hope I have managed to give you some clarity and now, our skin-care tips to let your skin “breathe” 😉
- Remember to cleanse your face thoroughly morning and night with a gentle cleanser
(Cleansing mousse) - Do not go to bed with make-up on.
(Washing oil) - Exfoliate your skin regularly every week.
(Cleansing gel, Enhancing toner, Gentle face scrub)