Skin pH is a critical factor in maintaining functional skin on the inside and good-looking skin on the outside. Skin can be resilient and self-balancing to maintain its normal pH (known as buffering capacity or buffer effect). If we use a very alkaline product (high pH) or a very acidic one (low pH), the skin returns to its usual pH. However, frequent application of unsuitable products can alter it, leading to a host of skin problems. In this post, we will discuss the importance of caring for skin pH by using products that keep it healthy.
What is the ideal pH for skin?
pH is a measure of acidity or alkalinity on a scale of 1 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH of around 5, and this level of acidity is important for maintaining its barrier function. In fact, this protective mixture of water and oil on our skin, known as the hydrolipidic film, is also known as the acid mantle.
How does pH influence skin microbiota?
This acid mantle and the other layers of the skin —epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis— are home to a wide variety of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that are essential for its health and balance. This complex ecosystem not only plays an important role in protecting the skin against pathogens, but it also regulates inflammatory processes and neutralizes the harmful effects of solar radiation, among many other functions.
The survival of these microorganisms is strongly influenced by pH changes. These fluctuations in pH values can promote the growth of bacterial groups that alter skin functionality.
What exactly happens?
When the skin microbiota is imbalanced, meaning "bad bacteria" take over from "good bacteria", the barrier function diminishes, and the skin becomes increasingly sensitive and more prone to problems like dryness, tightness, irritation, acne, blemishes, and wrinkles.
For this reason, it is important to choose products formulated with a pH similar to that of the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin or skin prone to redness.
The micellar water exception?
Unlike most skincare products, micellar waters are formulated with a pH similar to that of eye tears, which is 7.4, to avoid eye irritation. While this may seem beneficial, the fact that it has a different pH than the skin can cause long-term problems, especially if the product is not rinsed off with water.
Given that each Twelve product is formulated to ensure maximum respect for the most sensitive skin (i.e., with a pH of around 5), to avoid the problem presented by traditional micellar waters, we have developed a gentler and more skin-friendly alternative: Dara’s Water. Instead of using a combination of water and surfactants (soap), our non-micellar cleansing water is formulated with a unique blend of humectants and polysaccharides capable of removing makeup, impurities, and even mineral sunscreen – and with an ideal pH for the skin.
In conclusion, maintaining the skin's pH at its natural level is essential for its health and appearance. Choosing skincare products specifically formulated for the skin's pH is a simple way to help maintain skin health and prevent skin problems such as irritation and an imbalance of its protective barrier.