SKIN Functional launches Restoration Balm to support the skin after peels, laser, and microneedling

SKIN Functional announces the latest addition to its clinical skincare line-up, the 5% Jojoba Oil + 5% Squalane Restorative Balm, a soothing, deeply hydrating anhydrous balm formulated to support barrier restoration when skin is at its most vulnerable.

Created for skin recovering from chemical peels, laser and microneedling, as well as extreme dryness and flaking caused by winter, cold air and indoor heating, the balm creates a light, semi-occlusive, breathable protective layer that slows water loss so skin can focus on rebuilding its own seal.

“Restoration is the foundation,” says Shannon Dougall, CEO and founder of SKIN Functional. “We kept seeing the same pattern in post-treatment and winter skin consultations. The barrier was severely compromised, water was leaving quickly, and people were reaching for strong serums too early. We wanted a simple step that helps skin stay comfortable while it finds its balance again. Give skin a stable surface to heal, and everything you apply afterwards works harder.”

Why the recovery window decides results

Most people plan for the day of their treatment. Few plan for day three, when skin feels tight, looks flaky, and even water stings. Healthy skin keeps water in because its outer layer forms a natural seal. After a peel, laser, or microneedling, that seal is temporarily compromised. The same happens with environmental stress. When the seal is open, water leaves faster than usual. That water loss is what is felt as tightness, and what is seen as flaking.

A restorative balm helps by forming a semi-occlusive breathable layer on the surface. With a steadier environment, skin feels comfortable and can restore its optimal functioning.

Why a healing barrier prefers gentle care

While skin is repairing, it is more sensitive. Strong acids, retinoids, and many vitamin C serums can sting or prolong redness because they penetrate more easily through an open barrier. In our experience, progress often means supporting the barrier first.

“People often think progress means adding more active ingredients,” says Dougall. “When the barrier is steady, skin feels calm, products absorb better, and results from treatments last longer.”

A restoring routine should look like:

• Protect the new skin: Minimise direct sun, heat, saunas and hot showers
• Cleanse gently: Use a hydrating, non-stripping cleanser
• Keep it moist: Apply the restorative balm morning and evening, and re-apply as often as required

Clinical aftercare reflects this principle: use a post-peeling cream to speed up comfort and protection, and keep skin moist, as moist skin will always heal better.

Meet the 14-day seal

SKIN Functional’s 5% Jojoba Oil + 5% Squalane Restoration Balm is balm-rich but non-suffocating, suitable for oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin types.

Key ingredients, explained simply:

• Squalane (5%): A plant-derived emollient that mimics skin’s own sebum. Strengthens the barrier, soothes irritation, and provides antioxidant protection. Non-comedogenic and fast absorbing
• Jojoba Seed Oil (5%): Balances oil production while delivering vitamin E. Soothes inflammation, reduces redness, and supports barrier repair, ideal for post-procedure sensitivity and chronic dryness
• Bisabolol: Chamomile-derived soother with anti-inflammatory benefits that calms the look of redness
• Tocopherol Acetate: Vitamin E antioxidant that helps defend against environmental stressors
• Petrolatum, Mineral Oil and Dimethicone blend: Creates the breathable seal that keeps skin moist, so it heals better, without clogging pores
• Good to know: Fragrance-free. Alcohol free. Cruelty-free. Allergy and toxicologically tested, and proudly created in South Africa.

Restoration protects your investment

We spend a lot of time choosing treatments for glow, but restoration is what protects that investment. Support the repair phase, and the results paid last longer, whether the trigger was a laser or winter. Give skin a stable surface to heal, and everything applied afterwards works harder. The 5% Jojoba Oil + 5% Squalane Restoration Balm will be available from skinfunctional.com starting August 2026.

SKIN Functional will also host a sitewide 30% Christmas in July sale from 24 July to 5 August, with additional tiered gifts unlocked depending on how much is spent during the sale window, including the new Restoration Balm.