What is Transepidermal Water Loss and Why is it Important?

The official definition is: Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is the amount of water that passively evaporates through skin to the external environment due to water vapor pressure gradient on both sides of the skin barrier and is used to characterize skin barrier function. (Sciencedirect.com)

In layman’s terms, it’s the water that your skin loses through its surface. Circumstances such as diet choices, low-humidity weather conditions, injury and topically applied products that dry out the skin can all impact TEWL. Although it is

 a natural process, TEWL can contribute to a variety of dry skin conditions. But there are ways that you can help your skin stay moisturized and hydrated.

When researching skin care products, choose moisturizers and serums that combine humectant and occlusive ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid. Humectants help to draw moisture from the air to the epidermis if it is humid enough, or from the underlying dermis in low-humidity conditions. The occlusive agents simultaneously keep pollutants, toxins and harmful bacteria out. Together you have a powerhouse of protection for your skin. They create a reservoir of moisture in the epidermis and act as a barrier on the skin to help prevent TEWL by sealing in that moisture.

One of the best OM4 products for combating TEWL is the Ancient Alchemy Age-Arresting Elixer.

Remember, skin loves consistency, so use them regularly and experience a smoother more radiant complexion.

Written by Jennifer Sposato