SkinLabs Knowledge Hub
Real answers. Evidence-backed guidance. Built for South African skin, climate and routines.
SkinLabs provides educational skincare information, not medical diagnosis or treatment. Persistent symptoms, severe reactions, unusual lesions and significant skin concerns should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Skin Basics
Gauteng's high altitude and low humidity — especially in winter — speed up trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL, or moisture escaping through your skin), which is why skin feels tight and flaky. Richer moisturisers built around ceramides and humectants, sealed in with an occlusive layer (think a balm or an oil on top), help slow that water loss down.
Evidence reviewed · Aug 2026
- DermNet NZ — barrier function & TEWLDermNet
Trans-epidermal water loss mechanism
- PubMed — altitude and skin barrier researchPubMed
Altitude/humidity effects on skin barrier
Still have questions?
Our support team actually reads their messages — reach out via email, phone or WhatsApp.
Content last reviewed 31 August 2026 by the SkinLabs Editorial Team.