Did you know that the pH of your skin can tell you a lot about its overall health and function? Your skin is a multitasking machine that protects your body from the dangers and stressors of the outside world. And your skin's pH plays a critical role in these essential functions - as long as it remains at an optimal level.
At a Glance
- Skin pH refers to the acidity level of your skin, with 5 being an optimal pH level.
- Your skin is your body's first line of defense from environmental stressors, and a balanced pH helps maintain barrier function.
- An unbalanced pH can lead to flaky, dry skin, frequent breakouts, and increased sensitivity.
- To restore and improve your natural skin surface pH, be sure to follow a clean skincare routine, eat a balanced diet, and follow healthy lifestyle practices.
If your skin barrier is too acidic or too alkaline, it can lead to breakouts, dryness, or irritation. You might not know it, but maintaining a healthy pH balance is truly needed for a glowing and radiant complexion.
Keep reading, and we'll share everything there is to know about your skin's pH.
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What Is Skin pH?
Skincare is an art form, but there is still a bit of science involved. Here at JUARA, we know that better than anyone. Our line of cleansers, creams, and oils is inspired by ancient Indonesian wellness rituals and crafted with tried-and-true Western science.
Though a discussion on pH might feel like a flashback to high school chemistry, it's an important consideration when it comes to skin health. If you've been struggling to smooth fine lines and wrinkles or calm redness and irritation, it's likely time to focus on balancing your skin barrier.
Skin pH is one of your body's key protective mechanisms and is critical to your skin's protective barrier function.
The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14, with 1 being the most acidic and 14 being the most alkaline. 7 is considered "neutral," so any number below is acidic, and any number over is alkaline.
At first, you might assume that the optimal pH value for skin is 7 - after all, it's considered "neutral." But that would be an incorrect assumption, as skin is slightly acidic.
Ideally, your skin's pH level will sit between 4 and 7, with 5 being the most optimal pH value.
What Is the Acid Mantle?
If we're talking about skin surface pH, we also need to talk about the acid mantle. The acid mantle is a thin film of sebum, oil, and sweat on your stratum corneum. A damaged or unbalanced acid mantle can lead to a compromised skin barrier.
Why Does Skin's pH Matter?
Your skin is your body's largest organ and has several key responsibilities. It is the body's first line of defense from environmental triggers and external aggressors, shielding you from ultraviolet light and microorganisms.
Skin pH is one of your body's key protective mechanisms. Maintaining skin integrity, pH, and function is necessary to encourage a healthy complexion.
If your skin's pH rises or falls outside of a healthy range, your skin's barrier function can be severely compromised. This can lead to dryness, sensitivity, and other damaging skin conditions.
What Can Affect Skin pH?
There are certain things that can cause undue stress on your skin. This, in turn, can negatively impact your skin's natural pH.
Bacteria, pollution, humidity, dirt, and harsh chemicals are a few external factors that can alter your skin's pH. Frequent washing and using too hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and throw off its balance.
Clean skin is the foundation of healthy skin. Be sure to gently wash off any impurities morning and night with a sulfate-free cleanser like our Rice Facial Cleanser. For balanced skin from head to toe, use a plant-based body wash full of nourishing ingredients.
Bonus: 8 Ways To Improve Your Skin Elasticity
How Do I Know if My Skin’s pH Balance Is Off?
A pH that is too high or too low can throw off your skin's natural balance. Usually, an unstable pH will negatively affect your skin's acid mantle and microenvironment.
This can manifest in countless ways, from heightened sensitivity to frequent breakouts to dry, flaky skin.
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Dry and dehydrated skin: If your skin is too acidic (low pH), the natural sebum can be stripped away. These oils are critical to maintaining the skin's natural moisture. So, when they're lacking, you're more likely to experience dryness and flakiness. Don't forget to use a highly moisturizing body lotion to reintroduce some much-needed hydration.
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Acne and breakouts: If your skin's pH is disrupted, it can cause bacteria to grow. This, in turn, can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Reduced acidity can also make your skin prone to bacterial infections.
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Irritation and redness: Environmental factors like wind or sun exposure can affect your skin's pH. An unbalanced pH can contribute to skin sensitivity, causing redness, itching, and inflammation.
If you want to check the actual pH of your skin surface, you can use at-home test strips. Dermatologists may also offer skin pH testing services at their offices.
How Can I Balance My Skin pH?
To maintain healthy skin, you need to prioritize a balanced pH. The best way to do that is to invest in a high-quality, all-natural skincare routine. Plant-based ingredients are gentle and calming on the skin and encourage a normal pH.
Steer clear of skin products that contain harsh chemicals, as they only serve to throw off skin pH levels.
Exfoliate Your Skin Weekly
In addition to using a gentle cleanser twice a day, it's a good idea to exfoliate your skin's surface regularly. The frequency of exfoliation will depend on your skin type — acne-prone skin may require daily exfoliation, while sensitive skin will need less.
An energizing scrub is ideal for your body, but your face might need some special treatment.
Our Radiance Enzyme Scrub & Enzyme Mask acts as a cleanser, scrub, and enzyme mask. Crafted with gentle ingredients like bamboo and jojoba beads, this formula effectively removes impurities from your skin's surface without stripping away natural moisture.
Use a Skin Essence
Many people opt for pH-balanced products to encourage a balanced skin pH. If you struggle with a skin condition like rosacea, you should use an essence daily.
Our Triple Tea Antioxidant Essence is made with premium botanicals and plant-based ingredients that are soft and soothing on your skin. It offers a refreshing burst of hydration that serves to calm and nourish your skin's natural barrier.
Regularly Moisturize
A nourishing moisturizer is essential for your skin's natural pH. Research shows that petrolatum-based emollients may help to maintain the skin's optimal pH. However, a soothing anti-aging lotion or all-natural cream on its own is sure to do the trick.
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Juara Skincare incorporates ancient rituals with Western skincare science, creating the ultimate beauty experience. We aim to transport you from the mundane to the extraordinary with our exotic ingredients, intoxicating scents, and powerful, skin-improving formulas. All of our products are nutrient-rich and botanically based. We are proud to be certified cruelty-free. Get the latest skin care tips and info on Juara products by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
