Skin pH – What is it and Why is it So Important?

Potential hydrogen (pH) indicates the level of acidity of things. So, has pH anything to do with your skin?

It has been found that learning about and maintaining the pH of your skin is vital for your skin health.

Earth’s Wisdom today wants to discuss this important topic with the readers.

What is pH Scale?

The thing called pH scale starts from 1 and ends on 14, with seven considered as “neutral”. The lower numbers on the scale indicate acidic level, whereas the higher numbers indicate alkaline or nonacidic levels.

It may be surprising to you that a healthy skin pH tends to be on the acidic level. With higher acidic concentration, your skin is able to fight harmful pathogens and free radicals which may speed up the aging process.

But, it may be a bit tough to even out skin pH. You may wonder if it’s possible to maintain your skin’s healthy pH without damaging it. But it is possible. Here is some useful information for you.

Skin’s pH on the pH Scale

Keep in mind that a neutral pH is seven, with anything higher being non-acidic or alkaline, and anything lower being acidic. For the skin, however, pH levels tend to be a little broader, with acidity ranging from four to seven.

According to a 2006 study published by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science stated that ideally pH level should be just below five.

The skin of newborns has comparatively high pH levels everywhere. As they grow up, their pH levels drop down fast.

Skin pH differs also according to the part of your body. For example, parts that are less exposed, like skin on the armpits, buttocks and genital parts tend to have neutral acidity level whereas skin on parts that are more exposed such as your face and hands tends to be non-acidic i.e. alkaline. This is because the areas that are more exposed to the weather elements lose their acidity.

Other factors that can change skin pH are:

• Acne
• Bactericidal products
• Sebum/skin moisture
• Sweat
• Air pollution
• Seasonal changes, with changing humidity
• Detergents
• Excessive amount of sun exposure
• Cosmetics
• Bactericidal gels and soaps
• Tap water
• Excessive rinsing of your skin

Checking Your Skin pH

With At-Home Test Strips

Thanks to at-home skin pH testing kits, you can find out your skin pH on your own. These are paper strips to be applied to your skin and measured.

Through a skin specialist

A dermatologist can test your skin pH in their office with liquid pH testing. Plus they can help you with planning a skincare routine.

Observe and Evaluate

You can have a general idea of your skin pH level through keen observation. Skin with a soft texture with no dry spots is generally balanced. Signs like acne, irritation, dry spots and redness may indicate a high skin pH i.e. having a more alkaline profile.

Best Ways to Maintain Healthy Skin pH

Use Mild Cleansers

A mild cleanser for you may means a specially made face wash or a DIY mixture of plant-based or natural materials. Note that even water can affect your skin, though temporarily.

The more alkaline the cleanser, the more your skin will be irritated.

More acidic cleansers may help fight conditions like acne. The reverse is that, more alkaline-based skin care products can make your skin healthy in conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Use a Skin Toner

A skin toner can neutralize any alkalinity left behind and badly affecting the optimal pH levels of your skin. Facial toner from apple cider vinegar balances the natural pH.

Moisturize

Follow up the toner with a moisturizer. There are products like moisturizing gels, lotions, oils and dense creams to pick from. 

Exfoliate

Using mild exfoliants to exfoliate your skin once every week can give good results for your skin.

Having healthy skin may even be achieved with plant acids which may be added to microdermabrasion products and chemical peels. Discuss with a skin specialist about whether these skin care products can make your skin acidic enough to be flawless and healthy.

Also in Wisdom News