Where is the ideal pH value? Tailoring skincare accordingly
The pH value (Potentia hydrogenii) is determined on a scale. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. The ideal pH value of healthy skin is between 4.5 and 5.75.
Water has a pH value of 7. This is considered neutral. Higher pH values are in the alkaline range. If the pH value drops below seven, it is referred to as acidic.
The natural pH value of the skin is therefore in the slightly acidic range. The physiological pH value of men is slightly lower than that of women. This is due to the higher sebum production in men, which is attributed to the male sex hormone.
Why is the pH value of the skin so important?
It is important for the pH value to be in the ideal range to maintain the protective function. This is created by the acid mantle of the skin. It consists of a mix of sweat, sebum, and keratinocytes. It is also referred to as the hydrolipid film or the hydrolipid mantle of the skin.
If the pH value of the skin is out of balance, the acid mantle becomes permeable. The skin barrier is disrupted and can no longer perform its functions adequately.
- The skin loses moisture.
- Heat, cold, UV radiation, and other environmental factors have a greater impact on the skin.
- The defenses against microorganisms and germs decrease.
In the slightly acidic pH value of the acid mantle, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens cannot multiply. If the pH value is disturbed, this protective shield becomes "porous," and the risk of (skin) diseases increases.
By the way, the acid mantle only keeps harmful germs at bay. Microorganisms that are necessary for our skin and form the skin flora or microbiome thrive in it. They help the skin fulfill its protective function.
What can disturb the pH value of the skin?
There are many external and internal influences that can change the pH value of the skin.
- Heat, cold, environmental pollutants, or other external influences can disrupt the pH value just like diseases.
- Medications like antibiotics can often indirectly affect the skin.
- Because the skin is slightly acidic, alkaline chemicals, such as those found in cleaning agents or even soaps, are particularly aggressive.
- Frequent washing and incorrect cosmetics influence the pH value and can throw the skin out of balance.
A healthy lifestyle and the use of suitable products can help you maintain the pH value. High-quality cosmetics support the natural skin barrier with skin-identical products.
What care is optimal for the pH value?
Ideally, even facial cleansing with an optimal cleansing product can support the pH value and thus the acid mantle. SKINUANCE® offers exclusive pH-skin-neutral products with unique formulations that ideally nourish your skin according to its condition. You can find the exact pH value of each individual product in the product descriptions in the SKINUANCE® shop.
The BALANCING FACE TONIC from SKINUANCE® cleanses and clarifies your skin deeply. Through its ingredients, it optimally balances the pH value of the skin, allowing it to absorb active ingredients well. Additionally, it smooths and provides deep hydration for dry skin.
The BALANCING FACE TONIC is also suitable for sensitive skin that is prone to impurities. The valuable ingredients in the toner have regenerating and soothing effects. Pimples can thus subside more quickly.
Apply the facial toner not only in the morning but especially in the evening after cleansing. It prepares the skin for the subsequent care steps. When your skin is in regeneration mode in the evening, valuable care substances can work effectively.
This way, you support the natural protective function of your skin multiple times. Experience the incomparable feeling of freshness with the BALANCING FACE TONIC from SKINUANCE.