pH Balance for Skin Health
When we have a significant skin concern, such as a chronic breakout or stubborn redness, we tend to dive into treating the problem when we should look at the big picture. Our skin requires the perfect balance of hydration and protection; throwing it off balance can show up on the skin in many ways.
Understanding the relationship between pH and your skin is helpful in understanding the root causes of skin concerns. An imbalance of the skin's pH can result in a compromised skin barrier making it more susceptible to bacteria growth or inflamed and broken skin.
With more research regarding the science of skin behavior, we are learning that pH impacts the microbiome and affects more than we previously thought (2). We know that skin pH varies based on product use, environmental exposure (wind, extreme temperatures, sun), and age.
Let's dive into the basics!
What is pH?
pH means "potential of hydrogen," which describes the hydrogen's activity in a water-based solution. The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14. A neutral pH is a 7, a ph of 1 would be highly acidic, and a pH of 14 would be highly alkaline (or basic).
For example, the pH of Apple Cider Vinegar is around 2.5 (acidic), and Bleach is approximately 13 (alkaline). Our skin is slightly acidic at a pH of 5.5, and the typical foaming cleanser can are typically somewhat alkaline at a pH range of 7-9.
The role of pH in the skin
Healthy skin is slightly acidic with a natural lipid barrier, and just above that is the acid mantle. That uppermost layer of the skin maintains a slightly acidic pH to function correctly. A change in the skin's pH can cause a compromised skin barrier leading to various skin ailments. This could affect the skin's physical appearance, its efficiency of healing, and even its susceptibility to bacteria growth (1). So, pH is a factor to consider addressing if you have chronic skin issues.
If you have acne, this could mean that your pH levels are creating the perfect hospitable environment for P. acnes bacteria causing it to thrive. In this case, your Aesthetician may recommend a slightly higher pH product.
Below are common skin concerns associated with an imbalance in pH:
What can disrupt pH?
Your skin's pH is a sort of temporary state that can cause a chronic condition to flourish. There are external and internal factors that play a role in pH. A diet high in sugar can cause inflammation in the body, causing internal imbalance (3). Regular use of a high-pH product, harsh exfoliating, and environmental exposure such as UV, wind, or humidity can cause external damage to the outermost layers of your skin.
Supporting your skin's natural microbiome with a whole diet and pH-friendly products can help rebalance your skin for healing (2).
Since our skin is slightly acidic, it thrives using products within the range of a pH of 4-6. Anything outside of this range could potentially cause damage. Seemingly innocent products like facial soap or toners can be deceiving. Some soaps are too basic or alkaline; some are even as high at a pH of 8-10, leaving the skin stripped and tight feeling.
Ingredients that commonly disrupt pH
Harsh cleansers
Foaming agents
Drying toning ingredients like witch hazel or alcohol
Fragrance oils and essential oils
Exfoliants (overuse)
Because a compromised skin barrier can lead to chronic skin issues, we recommend speaking to a professional Aesthetician or an Aesthetic Nurse that can formulate a plan to heal your skin and recommend products based on skin type and suitability.
Our recommendations for pH-balanced products are aimed at nourishing and restoring. They are available in our shop and linked for convenience!