We invest copious amounts of money in skincare. But, the key to healthy skin is—balancing your skin’s pH levels. Confused? Don’t be. Read on as we tell you what the pH levels of your skin means and how it affects your skin quality…

What is pH level?

The pH level signifies the power of hydrogen or the acid-alkaline ratio. The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14. Anything below 7 is considered to be acidic. Whereas, anything above 7 is considered to be alkaline in nature. And, 7 stands for neutral. You can test the pH level using a litmus paper.

Your skin is delicate and has a protective mantle referred to as the acid mantle. It is made of sebum that is responsible for oil production which excretes from skin’s glands and later mixes with the lactic and amino acids from your sweat to create your skin’s pH level.

Skin’s pH level:

Our skin’s natural pH level lies between 4.5 to 5.5, making it acidic in nature.
 

And, here’s why it is important:

And, here’s why it is important:

If the pH levels of your skin is disrupted, it affects the state of your skin. When the pH levels rise, the acid mantle becomes alkaline in nature, which in turn makes your skin dull and dry.

It can also damage your collagen levels, and you are bound to experience inflammation or signs of aging, as well as compromising your skin’s permeability.

Whereas, when the pH levels fall, the acid mantle become acidic, which can cause problems like breakouts or acne, and in some cases even cause eczema.

Elements that affect your skin’s pH level:

 

Using a bar of soap on your face:

Using a bar of soap on your face:

The skin on your face is more delicate as compared to skin on rest of your body. The thickness of your skin varies all over the body, the skin on your face is much thinner, and it requires more gentle care.

Especially, the skin around the eyes—is the more fragile. Therefore, it is very important to use products that are just as gentle on your skin. Although, using soap alters your skin’s pH level.

Soaps are alkaline in nature, unlike your skin that is acidic. Therefore, with regular application you can damage your skin, leaving it vulnerable.

 

Secret to balanced pH level is your diet:

Secret to balanced pH level is your diet:

You are what you eat. Your dietary habits has a direct impact on your skin.
Having too much acid in your diet can be troublesome. This includes coffee, yeast, sugar and alcohol that substantially increases the level of acid in your system and this can result in skin problems.

Therefore, it is important to stick to a well-balanced diet is important to maintain a balanced pH level.

 

Over-exposure to sun?

Over-exposure to sun?

While we get vitamin D from the sun, over-exposure can get you in trouble. Prolonged exposure weakens your acid mantle, as well as quickens the pace of aging.

 

Quick and easy tips that will help in the long run:

Quick and easy tips that will help in the long run:

You might want to stay away from harsh cleansers that are alkaline. Ditch the bar of soap for an appropriate face wash or body wash. Use lukewarm water to rinse your face. Opt for skincare and makeup products that won’t disrupt your skin’s pH levels.