Have you ever read, “pH balanced” on a product and wondered what it meant? Dermatologists suggest that the phrase 'pH balanced' is more than a marketing ploy. Our skin is naturally designed to fight infection and environmental stresses and its ability to do so is affected by its pH level. The pH level of the skin refers to how acidic or alkaline it is. On a scale of 1-14, with 1 being the most acidic to 14 being the most alkaline, 7 is considered a neutral reading for your skin’s pH.
Our body and skin require this balance between alkaline and acidity for our acid mantle( a thin, protective layer made up of sebum -fatty acids- which mixes with lactic and amino acids from sweat to create the skin’s pH. This acid mantle protects skin against external influences like bacteria, allergens and pollution, while maintaining moisture. For your skin to remain balanced, your acid mantle will naturally stay slightly acidic with a pH of around 4.5-5.5.which ideally should be slightly acidic – at about a 5.5!
Some indications that your skin is off balance are issues like eczema, redness, dry patches, acne, oiliness, psoriasis, and premature signs of aging. That means your skin's barrier is damaged, and its exposure to the elements (free radicals) exacerbates everything from dry skin to clogged pores.
How To Keep Your Skin pH Level Balanced
- Eliminate Soaps And Harsh Cleansers. Cream cleansers are more gentle on the skin
- Use Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is excellent for regulating your skin's pH levels. Rosewater also is balanced perfectly for the majority of skin types
- Use Good Oils And Moisturizers. Those that contain citrus oils, jojoba, coconut, argan, tea tree & lavender to name a few
- Use Acids Carefully & know which is best for YOUR skin (we will hit on this in another blog)
- Use Sun Protection. Always always wear a sunblock even in the winter
- Use Topical Antioxidants (like vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, vitamin a/ Retinol, vitamin e & algae)
- Take a look into what your eating - eat more dark greens, drink a ton of water & limit your alcohol intake. Some foods that’ll throw you off balance would be those high in acids like meat poultry cheese & other dairy products!
Which P!B toner would be best for your skin ?
- We have a Apple cider vinegar & Tea Tree oil toner that is aimed at acne prone skin however it’s alkaline vs acidity is balanced for all skin types
- Rosewater is in the majority of my products simply because of its natural balance. I have a distilled Rosewater toner/ Shimmering Rosewater & Crystal infused rose water. These all would be excellent for aging skin, dryer skin that’s in need of hydration
- Lavender waters equalize the ph balance and are not as harsh as direct lavender oils. Lavender helps to heal scars, acne & is known for its anti aging benefits. This i would suggest for oily skin & acne prone skin