The skin’s pH

How important is to know the pH of your skincare.

The skin’s pH is related to the degree of acidity or alkalinity measurable on the surface. The pH is critical to many biological processes; most enzymatic reactions are pH dependent.

The pH of the skin’s surface is acidic (~pH 4.7). This level is essential for processes involved in the synthesis and maintenance of the skin barrier. The regulation of the stratum corneum and proteolytic enzyme reactions are kept under control thanks to its acidic pH. On the contrary, a high pH results in the rapid degradation of the corneodesmosomes, thus compromising the integrity and health of the skin.

Determining the natural pH of the skin is a difficult task. Since it is exposed to an external environment that constantly challenges it. THE pH also varies slightly with age, body area, ethnicity, and even circadian rhythms.

The acidic pH of the skin’s surface is an important factor in maintaining the balance of the microbiome. Using some bar soaps, abrasive or harsh cleansers, inks, and depilatory waxes can negatively influence the natural balance of bacterial flora and the repair mechanism of the skin barrier. In addition to increasing the lipid rigidity of the stratum corneum.

Using skincare products with a pH between 4 and 5 significantly improves the hydration and appearance of aged skin.