How pH Level Affects the Skin

What is pH and why does it matter?

pH or "potential hydrogen,” is the measurement of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution on a scale from 0 to 14, with 1 being the most acidic to 14 being the most alkaline, and 7 representing neutrality. Determining the pH level of a certain product is important, because it influences several factors contributing to the skin's overall health.

What happens if our pH level isn't balanced?

Our skin has something that is called the acid mantle, which functions as a protective barrier on the skin's surface. It is composed of sweat, skin oils, and dead skin cells which gives our skin its pH (ranging from 4.0 to 7.0).

However, the acid barrier can only do its job properly with the right chemical balance. This is where pH levels are important.

Disrupting this delicate balance could lead to the release of toxins and impurities from your sweat glands, causing acne or eczema. It can also cause dryness of the skin, extreme sensitivity, inflammation, wrinkles, and a lot more. Pollutants, pathogens, cleansers, and even water, can disrupt our skin's pH level. It can be food, or something that comes in contact with our skin, that's why we always have to be very cautious about the products we use.

How do I maintain my skin's pH level?

Remember: the higher the pH, the more it disrupts the acid mantle.

The skin’s natural pH level is about 5.5. The goal to maintaining this is to cleanse your skin without over-stripping its natural oils. In addition to choosing and using the best natural skin care products, balancing your skin's pH levels also requires a focus on overall wellness. Making better nutritional choices can mean all the difference. You should also consider using hypoallergenic and 100% cotton made clothing, such as products from Cottonique. Cottonique is pH balanced making it easier on the skin to achieve and maintain its normal pH level.

Your skin is one of the first things people notice about you. So be kind to your skin—you wear it every day.