ALL ABOUT THE BARRIER
From Inflammation to Function
Sunday, May 24 | 12pm to 3:30pm
THEORY PORTION
90 min | $150
In the theory portion of this class, we’ll build a strong foundational understanding of the skin barrier and what it truly needs to function optimally. We’ll take a deep dive into the key ingredients required for barrier repair and resilience, including lipids such as ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, and how they work synergistically within the skin. A major focus will be on the “golden ratio” of barrier lipids—what it means, why it matters, and how imbalances can contribute to common skin conditions like acne, sensitivity, and chronic inflammation. You’ll learn how to identify whether a product is truly barrier-supportive or simply marketed that way. We’ll also break down how these ingredients appear on an ingredient deck (INCI list), so you can confidently analyze formulations. By the end of this section, you’ll be able to read between the lines of product labels, recognize supportive ingredients and make more intentional, results-driven choices for your clients.
HANDS-ON PORTION
90 min | $150
During the hands-on portion of this class, we will bring barrier repair to life through real-world application. You’ll work alongside two live models, each presenting with a different type of barrier dysfunction—one acneic and one sensitized. Together, we’ll assess each skin in real time, identify underlying barrier impairments, and walk through a thoughtful treatment approach tailored to each condition. You’ll gain clarity on how to select ingredients that support repair without triggering further inflammation, as well as how to adapt your techniques to respect and strengthen compromised skin. This portion is designed to build your confidence in treating barrier-impaired clients, giving you practical experience in choosing the right modalities, products, and protocols for both acne-prone and sensitive skin types.
There will be a 30 minute break between classes for lunch. I would prepare and pack a lunch.
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
SUZANNE IGOE
With over 20 years of experience in aesthetics and as the founder of PURE Face Care, Suzanne brings her expertise to All About the Barrier: From Inflammation to Function. In this class, she breaks down the fundamentals of barrier repair, helping skincare professionals understand how to identify, treat, and restore compromised skin.
This experience includes both an in-depth educational lecture and a hands-on portion, where attendees will apply what they’ve learned on real skin conditions—building confidence in treating inflammation, acne, and sensitivity across all skin types.