A brief introduction to your skin’s pH level
With beauty being one of the most sought after attributes today, people are now more than ever, seeking dermatological and cosmetologically help.
In a study conducted by NUXE Paris, 38% of the respondents said that their biggest skin care concern. While another 38% were concentrated on skin dryness issues.
Hence, whether beauty is ‘skin deep’ or ‘lies on the eyes of the bolder’, it’s obvious that a large part of it all, ends and begins with healthy skin.
But how much do you, know about maintaining good skin?
To start off, let’s begin with understanding skin’s pH level and its significance in helping you maintain a good skin care regime.
What is skin pH?
The pH ( Potential of Hydrogen) level of the skin refers to how acidic or alkaline it is. On a numeric scale between 1-14, 1 is the most acidic and 14 is the most alkaline, 7 is considered as neutral Ph, as depicted in the image below.
Ideally, the pH level of skin is supposed to fall at 5.5—slightly acidic. The higher the acidity, the easier it is for the skin top combat free radicals etc. On the other hand, increased alkalinity can make the skin more susceptible to sensitivity, dryness and prone to irritations and acne.
Our skin has a thin, protective layer on its surface, referred to as the acid mantle. Serving as a barrier, the acid mantle is formed when the skin secretes sebum.
Factors that affect skin’s pH
There are several endogenous (internal) and exogenous (external) elements at play in affecting the skin and more so its pH level. Few of those are:
Endogenous factors:
• Genetic Predisposition
• Hormones
• Age
• Anatomic Site
• Sweat & Sebum
• Ethnic Differences
• Skin‘s Moisture
Exogenous factors:
• Climatic conditions
• Pollution
• Skin Irritants
• Perfume & Deodorants
• Occlusive Dressings
• Topical Antibacterial
• Cosmetics
Though only so much can be done to fight endogenous factors, there are however myriad dermatological solutions and tips that can help an individual fight the exogenous elements.
Given the ubiquitousness of the factors above, it is suffice to say that on any given day, a person’s skin can take a hit from a at least 2 or 3 of such perpetrators.
With that said, there are various ways that one can use to maintain a healthy skin with the right pH level. Few of those are:
• Gentle cleansers
• Syndet Bars
• Moisturization
• Exfoliation
• Dermatological procedures
