Facial first aid

You can assess the state of your skin barrier by paying attention to how your face feels. “If it looks and feels rough, dull, itchy or flaky, that could be a sign your moisture barrier is compromised,” says Pai founder Sarah Brown. There are many possible causes: lifestyle and environmental factors, or a regimen that lacks nourishing formulas. To help skin recover, CeraVe Hydrating Hyularonic Serum, $29.99, repairs the delicate skin barrier; Kate Somerville’s DeliKate Recovery Serum, $124, is packed with ceramides; while Cosmedix Rescue Intense Hydrating Balm & Mask, $99, is a comforting, long-lasting skin salve.