Skin PH: 5 keys to understanding it

He skin pH It's a fundamental factor that influences your health and vitality. Understanding this delicate balance can make all the difference in your skincare routine. That's why today I want to share with you these 5 keys to help you understand and effectively care for your skin's pH:

But first, you're probably wondering...

What does pH mean?

The acronym "pH" stands for "potential hydrogen." It represents a measurement used to determine how acidic or basic (also known as alkaline) a solution or substance is.

pH is typically measured on a scale from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline.

Key # 1: What is skin pH?

You already know that pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is.

In the case of skin, this value is generally in the range of 4.5 to 5.5, making it slightly acidic.

And it's all perfectly justified, as this acid level is vital for protecting the skin from harmful bacteria and keeping it hydrated.

Key # 2: The importance of a balanced pH.

Maintaining a balanced pH is crucial for healthy skin.

On the contrary, when the pH is unbalanced, it can lead to dry, irritated skin and even cause problems like acne.

Key # 3: Factors that can affect.

There are several factors that can cause an imbalance. Here are some of the most important:

• Aggressive cleaners: Harsh cleansers, especially those containing ingredients like sulfate, can be too oil-stripping and affect your skin's pH balance.
• Tonics with alcohol: Some toners or astringents that contain high amounts of alcohol can dry out your skin, unbalancing its pH.
• Harsh chemical exfoliants: Some exfoliants with high concentrations of acids (such as glycolic acid or salicylic) can affect if used in excess or if the skin is sensitive to these ingredients.
• Alkaline soaps: Be careful with soaps with a higher pH, as they can interfere with your skin's natural pH, unbalancing it.
• Acne products: Some acne treatments, especially those that are very aggressive, can upset your balance by removing too much natural oil or over-drying your skin.
• Fragrances and preservatives: Some fragrances or preservatives in cosmetics can irritate your skin, which in turn could affect its pH, causing inflammation or redness.
• Stress: Yes, stress affects everything! So find activities that help you relax.
• Unbalanced diet: Be careful with this, it is better to try to eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients, especially vitamins and antioxidants, which can help you maintain healthy skin and keep its levels at their optimal point.
• Hormonal changesPay attention to hormonal changes, as they can unbalance the acidity levels in your skin.

Key # 4: How to restore and maintain balance.

Restoring or maintaining a balanced pH in your skin is essential for skin health. Here are some recommendations to achieve this:

1. Use gentle and balanced products: Prefer gentle, sulfate-free cleansers that are gentle on your skin. Look for products formulated to maintain or restore your skin's natural pH.
2. Adequate hydration: Regularly apply an appropriate moisturizer for your skin type. Hydration helps maintain the skin's protective barrier and balance its pH.
3. Avoid over-exfoliation: Don't over-exfoliate your skin. Too much exfoliation can strip away your skin's natural protective barriers and unbalance its pH. For your face, you might want to read our article. How to exfoliate your face in 5 easy steps.
4. Consider using mild toners: Some gentle, balancing toners or solutions can help restore your skin's pH after cleansing.
5. Probiotic skin products: Some products contain probiotics that help balance and maintain the skin's microbiota, promoting a healthy pH.
6. Maintain a balanced diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients, especially vitamins and antioxidants, can help maintain healthy skin and balance its pH.
7. Relax and avoid stress: Stress can affect your skin's health. Try stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or relaxing activities.
8. Observe and adjust: Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and environments. If you notice that certain products are unbalancing your skin, consider adjusting your skincare routine.

Key # 5: Each area of the body can have a different pH.

Each area of your body has different functions and chemical environments, and that's why pH also varies, depending on the area of the body.

You've already learned that skin pH is generally measured on a scale of 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral, below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline.

Here's a general idea of how pH varies in different parts of your body:

1. Face: Your facial skin tends to have a slightly acidic pH, usually around 5 on the pH scale. This acidity helps protect your facial skin from bacteria and maintains moisture.
2. Scalp: The scalp tends to have a slightly acidic pH, usually around 5.5. This pH helps maintain hair balance and health.
3. Armpits: Underarm skin tends to be slightly more acidic than other parts of the body, with a pH of around 4.5 to 5. This acidic pH helps prevent bacterial growth.
4. Hands and feet: These areas may have a slightly more alkaline pH, around 5.5 to 6, because the palms of the hands and soles of the feet have a thicker stratum corneum.
5. Genital areas: The skin in this region tends to be more acidic, with a lower pH, around 4 to 5. This is important to maintain the balance of beneficial bacterial flora in that area.

These variations in skin pH are essential for the specific functions of each area and help protect and maintain the health of your skin in those particular areas.

In conclusion, understanding your skin's pH and its importance allows you to adapt your personal care routine to maintain healthy skin. Paying attention to the products you use, your diet, and how different areas of your skin respond will help you maintain that vital pH balance and achieve healthier, more radiant skin.