What is it about skin pH?

What is pH?

The pH of a solution is indicated on a numerical scale from 0 to 14. Anything below 7 (neutral pH) is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is considered alkaline. It is important to know that although the differences between pH values ​​may seem small in classical mathematics, the pH scale is logarithmic, not linear. This means that a one-unit increase in pH means a ten-fold decrease in the concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution. Therefore, a pH of 3 is 100 times more acidic than a pH of 5.

Skin pH

The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Its main function is to create a barrier between the outside world and protect the body from factors such as chemicals or pollution. Maintaining the skin in good condition guarantees its proper functioning, but it is very easy to disrupt it. Many factors affect the functionality of the skin - one of them is the disruption of the pH of its surface. The pH of the skin is influenced by diet, lifestyle, hygiene habits and the care products used. The acid mantle of the epidermis plays a key role, working with natural skin components such as ceramides, cholesterol, enzymes, sweat and even sebum produced by our skin to protect its surface and lower layers from external factors.

What is a good skin pH?

pH is a measure of the pH of a solution – the lower the pH, the more acidic it is. Skin pH is between 4.5 and 6.0, which means it is slightly acidic. The pH value of the skin surface varies depending on age and body location. Like many other things, our skin is constantly evolving: it changes depending on hormones, age, and also the area of ​​the epidermis. The skin on your legs is not the same as your armpits or face. To provide an ideal environment for natural microflora, the acidity of the skin must remain undisturbed.

Does skin pH matter?

The pH value of the skin is important for its appearance and condition. It is essential for maintaining its proper functions and supports its natural microbiome. Small changes in the skin's pH do not affect its functioning, for example when using exfoliants with AHA or BHA acids with a pH of 3.4 to 3.9. This helps to exfoliate or remove dead skin cells from the skin's surface. It is inappropriate to use products with an extremely acidic or alkaline pH (less than 2.5 or more than 8). They can disrupt the skin's acid mantle and damage it. Too low or too high a pH can lead to problems such as dryness, acne, irritation, and even hypersensitivity to environmental factors. In this case, the top layer of the skin will not be able to act as a protective barrier.

How can you check your skin pH?

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to accurately measure skin pH at home, so it is always worth consulting a dermatologist if you have skin problems - they can use a skin pH meter or conduct a liquid pH test. There are also various ways to test your skin pH and see what it is. However, it is important to remember that not every test can give an accurate reading. Specialist test strips for home use - they are available in paper form to stick to the skin.

What disturbs the skin's pH?

Skin care should be adapted to its pH. Using too alkaline cosmetics, such as traditional soaps, can disrupt its natural balance. It is worth using facial cosmetics that do not disturb the skin's natural pH. Hello Daktyl delicate facial wash gel is an ideal choice for all skin types.

What care at what pH?

It is recommended to use gentle, pH-balanced products that will help maintain a healthy skin microbiome. Use gentle cleansers with a pH level of around 5.5, which, in addition to removing dirt and impurities, provide regenerative and moisturizing properties, such as Hello Daktyl Gentle Face Wash . Also, use a toner - the skin's pH will probably not be at the right level after cleansing or exfoliating. Toners can help restore the skin's natural acidity balance, thus protecting the acid mantle. An example of a milky toner that is ideal for this function is Hello Daktyl Revitalizing Toning Lotion . Don't forget to moisturize - after cleansing and toning, apply a serum or moisturizer to protect the skin's protective barrier and maximize the absorption of the product. Remember that even if you have combination or oily skin, you should still moisturize. Just be sure to choose a product that does not weigh down the skin or clog pores.

Treat your skin with care – don’t over-exfoliate, which helps remove impurities and unclog pores, giving you a more radiant complexion. Just be careful not to overdo it, as it can dry out your skin and throw it off balance. Monitor your skin and adjust the frequency of exfoliation to its needs.