The 13th Barrier Function of Mammalian Skin Gordon Research Conference is scheduled for August 18-23rd, 2013 at the Waterville Valley Resort in New Hampshire, USA. This conference represents the primary international research forum on the mammalian barrier, and is focused on biophysical, biological, and clinical aspects of barrier formation and function in health and disease. To highlight important and novel perspectives, the organizers have assembled an outstanding list of speakers, and will again highlight a "Hot Topics/Young Investigators" session, wherein six-to-seven presentations will be given by young scientists, describing their most-recent research. This popular conference is generally fully- to-over-subscribed, which makes it possible to accept an optimal mix of attendees from academics, industry and government, as well as a mix of young and established scientists. Submitted abstracts will be used not only to assist with consideration for conference participation, but also for the selection of presenters for the "Hot Topics/Young Investigators" session. The organizers have made a concerted effort to recruit speakers and encourage attendees from around the world. This Barrier Gordon Conference will provide new insights into the origin, function, maintenance, and repair of the mammalian skin barrier, including the penetration of drugs and exclusion of toxins and pathogens. An array of important topics has been selected, with sessions and/or presentations devoted to: Atopic Dermatitis, Antimicrobial Peptides and the Barrier, Interactions Between Epidermal Barriers and the Immune System, Novel Transepidermal Therapies, New In Vivo and In Vitro Barrier Models, and Novel Approaches to Imaging the Epidermal Barrier. To complement these diverse themes, three evening poster sessions are scheduled, with up to 30 presentations each. In addition, a stimulating and entertaining Forum Debate, on the topic "Nature vs. Nurture: Genetics are the Most Important Factor in Determining Barrier Function and Response", is scheduled for the final evening.