Skin pH level. What do you need to know about it? Ideal skin pH and why it matters. Just about the complex What causes a change in skin pH

When the pH balance is disturbed, the epidermis immediately makes you aware of its dissatisfaction. How? In many different ways. The skin can begin to become inflamed and irritated over trifles, or even turn into overly sensitive. Under the worst set of circumstances, there is a chance to earn acne. The direct relationship between the acid-base environment of the skin and its appearance means at least one thing to you: the line “normalizes the pH balance” on the packaging of a cleanser or cream is much more important than the tempting promises of marketers.

Now you know why you should care about these two strange letters - pH. If you often skipped chemistry, we tell you: translated from English, this abbreviation stands for “potential hydrogen” (potential hydrogen) and is used to denote the ratio of acid and alkali in any matter. The minimum value of the pH scale is 0 (acid prevails here), the maximum is 12 (respectively, alkali). For cosmetologists, the pH value indicates the state of the epidermis.

The pH balance of human skin ranges from 3 to 7, and the task of a specialist is to bring these numbers closer to the gold standard, that is, 5.5, or at least keep them between 5.2–5.7 units. If you constantly feel tightness and dryness, and the area around the eyes was already covered with a fine network of wrinkles at 25, most likely, alkali prevails in your pH. The other extreme is increased acidity, when there is oily sheen and pimples on the face, the sensitivity of the skin increases. Draw conclusions: if you figure out the meaning of your acid-base balance and start caring for your face in a proper way, even oily or dry skin can turn into normal.

1. Physiological Cleansing Gel, La Roche-Posay
2. Cellular Power Serum, La Prairie
3. Renewing Peel, Artistry

Test

Find your balance

Fortunately, bringing the skin to a calm state is easier than the nervous system. To understand how to do this, complete the task. Answer questions honestly and remember the results. After - count which answers (A, B or C) are more, and read how to return the pH to the optimal value.

1. What does your skin look like after cleansing?
a) Soft and smooth.
B) Tight and dry.
C) Still a little oily and not quite clean.

2. How many times a day do you moisturize your face?
A) Two. In the morning and in the evening.
B) One.
C) Never.

3. Does it happen that the skin begins to react strangely to products that you have been using for a long time? We are talking about decorative cosmetics, and caring.
A) No, I didn't notice that.
B) Sometimes something like this happens.
C) Yes. And lately she reacts violently to everything that I offer her.

4. How often does the skin dry, peel, redden?
A) Never.
B) Sometimes.
C) Regularly.

5. Have you noticed that in the morning the skin looks worse than in the evening? After sleep, it is duller, and wrinkles appear deeper.
A) No.
B) Yes, I watch it regularly.
C) In very rare cases.

6. Your skin has become too oily and inflamed every now and then.
A) No.
B) It happens from time to time, but then everything returns to normal.
C) Yes.

7. Are there frequent redness and irritation?
A) No.
B) Only after using cosmetics.
C) Yes.

8. Does your skin look puffy and shiny?
A) Yes, almost always.
B) Rarely.
C) She is rather only shiny.

If option A is your top answer, then your pH is...
... optimal
Your skin is going through the best of times: it is in a calm state and nothing disturbs it. We hope this will always be the case. It is unlikely that in the near future the face will wrinkle or go red spots. And this is not just a happy coincidence - we praise you for your success in moisturizing, exfoliating and using cosmetics that are right for you. Keep up the good work.

If option B is your number one answer, then your pH is...
...too high
This means that the skin needs additional hydration for a long time, it dries and suffers, and besides, by its nature, it is prone to the early appearance of wrinkles. The level of alkali, alas, rolls over. Your epidermis is practically devoid of protective lipids: it really cannot resist bacteria, UV rays, or harsh environmental influences. Think about whether it is right, and most importantly, whether you clean and moisturize your skin often enough, whether you regularly use scrubs.

If option C is your top answer, then your pH is...
...too low
We dare to assume that you know something about oily sheen and increased skin sensitivity. Inflammations on the face trumpet an excess of acid in the protective mantle. You are probably too selfless in cleansing your skin or overusing acid peels in an attempt to eliminate excess sebum. Forget about it and listen to WH recommendations.

Without water

Believe it or not, something as harmless as water can upset the pH balance of the skin. According to Jeannette Graf, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, constant contact with water wears down the skin's lipid layer (one of the layers that retain beneficial nutrients). Thus, the epidermis with a high pH value loses its natural lubrication and becomes drier and tougher.

If the pH is lowered, the skin becomes extremely sensitive and oily: it begins to secrete fat at an emergency pace to compensate for the lack of moisture. Try switching to cleansers that don't require water. They are easy to figure out by their creamy texture. If you are unable to wake up until you wash your face with ice water, replace it with thermal water. It is best to stay away from tap water.

As far as the body is concerned, train yourself to shower quickly. And be so kind as to shorten your bath time. And dermatologists advise one or two days a week to bypass the shower side. They are serious, yes. Cool water is the most beneficial for the body. At a minimum, it should not be hot - this way you will avoid the expansion of blood vessels, the opening of pores and loss of moisture. And consider installing a filter to reduce water hardness. It will block the way for minerals such as phosphorus and chlorine, which also affect the pH balance in a bad way.

Night cream

While you sleep, your skin cells give up all their strength to recover from the damage they suffered during the day. So help them! Even if you are dying to sleep, do not be lazy, apply a night cream every night. Choose a product with vitamin A - that is, retinol. It has long been known that this component has super properties: it smoothes wrinkles and reduces pores, but in addition, it also helps the skin in the difficult task of restoring and maintaining optimal pH balance.

1. Moisturizing face fluid Aquamilk, Lancaster
2. Refreshing cleanser 2 in 1, Weleda
3. Balancing night cream for combination skin Visible Difference,
Elizabeth Arden

Scrubs and gommages

Do you know why the skin of children is so radiant? Yes, because there are almost no keratinized cells on its surface. With each birthday celebrated, their number is growing rapidly, while the amount of moisture in the skin, on the contrary, is decreasing. Your salvation from dead cells is peeling. It's simple: if you periodically dry and flake (that is, the pH is high), you can experiment - use both abrasive and acid scrubs. If the pH is below normal, switch to gommages - gentle exfoliating products, and allow yourself something tougher once every two weeks, not more often.

Milk and tonic

Fanatical cleansing of the skin makes the sebaceous glands work twice as active. They can not leave the face without a protective lipid layer. Most cleansers (especially after which the skin seems to creak, before it seems clean) are acidic. A prime example is soap, forget about it. Milk and oil-based emulsions are at your service (they work without water and remove fat-soluble contaminants). Remember the tonic - it returns the pH balance of the skin from alkaline to slightly acidic, ideal for you.

Hyaluronic acid

Do not go to a fortuneteller: moisturizing is indicated for any type of skin. And not just to get rid of tightness after a pool or a long stay in an air-conditioned room. The more moisture in the skin, the better the cells of the epidermis are able to retain it. The classics of the genre are products with hyaluronic acid. This component in itself is an excellent moisturizer, but it also accumulates water in the right places. Does your face dry out? Arrange yourself a short course of intensive care - use products with the addition of acids (for example, fruit). And it doesn't help? Add a drop of argan or some other oil to the night cream - this way you will quickly restore the protective layer of the epidermis, which resists moisture evaporation. Girls with oily skin, go in search of light gels or gel creams - fortunately, there are plenty of such specimens on the cosmetics market today.

Restoring pH balance

If you resignedly follow all our recommendations, and you don’t miss the words of cosmetologists, but something is still wrong with your skin (either a pimple pops up, or it turns red somewhere), take a closer look at cosmetics that purposefully work on restoring acidity. -alkaline balance. They usually have the following words: “pH 5.5”, “balancing agent”, “restoring product”, “normalizing skin pH balance”.

1. Moisturizing Soothing Crème Dermo-Apaisante, Payot
2. Moisturizing matte fluid Hydra Sparkling, Givenchy
3. Balatone™ Superficial pH Soothing Lotion,
ZO® Medical by Zein Obagi

Our expert:
Inna Semerkhanova. Dermatologist-cosmetologist, training manager of the training center "Equilibrium"

Nearly a century ago, Schade and Marchionini first coined the term Säuremantel or "acid mantle" to describe the inherent acidic environment of the stratum corneum. In the last decade, it has been shown that skin pH largely influences barrier homeostasis, the integrity and strength of the stratum corneum (SC), as well as the antimicrobial defense mechanisms of the skin.

Despite strong evidence that skin pH plays an important role in MS function, the application of the concept of clinical care for the “acid mantle” has lagged behind. The importance of maintaining an acidic skin pH, especially when it affects certain skin conditions, remains a recognized topic among practicing dermatologists in the United States. There is a shortage of low pH soaps, cleaners and moisturizers available in the US market.

The purpose of this article is to reintroduce the concept of the “acid mantle” and provide the reader with objective evidence that skin pH is closely related to vital MS function. It is impossible to ignore the recent compelling basic scientific research that has been posted on the role of pH as a major factor in MS function. Abnormal pH is noted in a number of skin diseases, which will be discussed below. Finally, practical recommendations will be discussed regarding the use of soaps, cleaners and moisturizers that contribute to the preservation of the “acid mantle”.

Physiological skin pH

The pH of the skin is generally acidic, in the pH range of 4-6, while the body's internal environment is maintained close to neutral (pH 7-9). This creates a sharp pH gradient of 2-3 units between the pH of the PC and the pH of the epidermis and dermis. The physiological role of the acidic surface of the skin is to carry out defense mechanisms against invading microorganisms. More recently, several key enzymes involved in the synthesis and maintenance of a competent skin barrier have been shown to significantly influence skin pH. Therefore, there is a better understanding of the importance of pH in relation to the function and integrity of the skin.

Factors Affecting Skin pH

A number of factors, incl. both endogenous and exogenous, affect the pH of the skin. (see Table No. 1).

Table I. Factors affecting skin pH (adopted by Yosipovitch et al. 1996)

Age

Immediately after birth, the pH of the skin surface of both term and preterm infants is higher than that of adults and older children. The average pH value is from 6 to 7.08 in different parts of the body in the first day of life of full-term newborns, which is much higher than that of adults (pH 5.7). pH decreases sharply in the first days of the postpartum period. The pH value later in infancy is similar to that of adults.

The decrease in pH occurs from day 3 to day 30 of the neonatal period and is most pronounced in the forearms compared to the forehead, cheeks and buttocks. There is no difference in pH values ​​between different parts of the body in a newborn at 1-2 days after birth. During the day, the pH is higher on the cheeks and buttocks and lower on the forehead and forearms. This apparent discrepancy can be attributed to external factors, namely diaper occlusion of the gluteal region and exposure to climatic factors on the exposed skin of the cheeks. Eczema tends to cause a decrease in pH on the extensor surfaces of the extremities, as well as in newborns on the cheeks, compared to normal skin in adults. The increased desquamation observed in the first few days after birth is largely due to the increased pH level. Elevated pH levels are known to increase the activity of the serine proteases kallikrein 5 and 7, which are involved in desquamation and degradation of corneodesmosomes. The increased activity of these enzymes under conditions of higher pH levels probably explains the increased desquamation observed in the first few days after delivery, when the skin surface is more alkaline. In addition, key enzymes involved in barrier permeability, β-glucocerebrosidase and acid sphingomyelinase, which require an acidic pH, are not fully activated during the neonatal period, resulting in decreased skin hydration.

An increase in skin pH and a decrease in buffering capacity have also been documented in the skin of older people. Ceramide deficiency in the skin, observed in old age, also contributes to the alkalinization of the skin. Alkaline external stimuli, which have a pH optimum of 9, contribute to the degradation of the lipid barrier and are more active in old age.

pH and skin area

There are "physiological gaps" in the acid barrier of the skin, which depend on the specific area of ​​the skin, especially in the interdigital spaces and in large folds - axillary, inguinal, inframammary, where the pH is higher compared to other areas of the skin. Higher pH values ​​in the axillary folds lead to colonization with propionobacteria and staphylococci, which contribute to the formation of odor. Deodorants containing citrates lower the pH and inhibit bacterial activity. Candidal intertrigo of large folds also predominantly develops in an alkaline environment.

Pigmented skin

Gunathilake et al. note a significantly more acidic skin surface in dark-skinned individuals (Fitzpatrick IV-V), compared with weakly pigmented types (Fitzpatrick I-II) (pH 4.6 ± 0.03 vs. 5.0 ± 0.04). In addition, higher integrity and barrier function were observed in dark-skinned individuals. These qualities have been attributed to an increase in epidermal lipids, an increase in the density of lamellar bodies, and a decrease in pH in dark-skinned people. Serine protease activity was reduced in a more acidic environment in dark skinned individuals and increased at higher pH in lightly pigmented individuals. In addition, acidification of the skin in individuals with skin types I-II with topical polyhydroxy acids to the pH observed in individuals with skin type IV-V improved barrier functions to a level comparable to that of the dark-skinned group.

skin pH and barrier functions

The permeability of the stratum corneum (stratum corneum) depends on its hydrophobic nature, the distribution of lipids, and the organization of lipids into lamellar bilayers. Several pH-dependent enzymes are involved in the formation of the stratum corneum barrier, in particular its lipophilic components. Two key enzymes involved in lipid processing, β-glucocerebrosidase and acid sphingomyelinase, function at optimal pH of 5.6 and 4.5, respectively. Both are involved in the synthesis of ceramides, critical components of barrier permeability. The activity of β-glucocerebrosidase is 10 times lower at pH 7.4 than at pH 5.5. The processing of lipids secreted by lamellar organs and the formation of a layered structure require an acidic environment. Studies in mice and humans support the claim that pH affects skin barrier function. In bald mice exposed to acetone, barrier function recovered faster in the presence of an acidic buffer compared to a neutral buffer. Similarly, blockade or suppression of secretory phospholipase A2, or the sodium-proton exchanger, both of which are involved in acidification of the stratum corneum, resulted in compromised permeability and integrity of the stratum corneum. Finally, studies have shown that at pH levels above the pH of normal skin, the skin barrier is disrupted, associated with increased activity of serine proteinases and decreased activity of ceramide-generating enzymes.

Recently, Hatano et al. showed that maintenance of an acidic environment in the stratum corneum by the use of polyhydroxy acids prevents the development of hapten-induced atopic dermatitis in mice. Lowering the pH in mice prevented epidermal tissue hyperplasia, reduced eosinophilia, and normalized epidermal structures. Their conclusions - topical acid preparations can change the course of inflammatory dermatoses.

skin pH and stratum corneum integrity

pH affects not only barrier homeostasis, but also affects the integrity and desquamation of the stratum corneum. The serine proteases kallikrein 5 and kallikrein 7 function optimally in a neutral environment and are closely associated with desquamation by acting on desmoglein 1. With an increase in pH, serine proteases are activated, while the enzymes responsible for the creation of ceramides, which are optimally acidic, are inactivated with damage for the structure and function of the stratum corneum.

skin pH and antimicrobial properties

Normal skin flora grows at acidic pH values, while pathogenic bacteria such as S. aureus grow at neutral pH. Dermicidin, an antimicrobial peptide found in sweat, has shown antimicrobial activity against various pathogens. When S. aureus was incubated in the seventh sweat fraction containing dermicidin, a bactericidal effect exceeding 90% was observed in pH 5.5 buffer, while this effect decreased to 60% in pH 6.5 buffer. Chikakane & Takashashi also observed a decrease in the antibacterial activity of cationic substances, for example, some basic proteins, due to a decrease in acidity. Nitrates, which are produced in the sweat glands, are converted by bacteria into nitrites. Nitrites serve as a non-specific antibacterial defense mechanism. This happens in an acidic environment.

skin pH in diseases

The skin permeability barrier, when properly functioning, gives the skin the ability to resist external agents and retain moisture. The stratum corneum, pH and permeability are co-dependent. Several dermatoses, discussed below, are characterized by impaired barrier permeability and altered skin pH.

Atopic dermatitis (AD)

In a study of 100 children with AD, it was observed that their pH was significantly higher in lesions and in normal skin compared to the skin of 21 healthy children. In addition, higher pH values ​​were found in areas of the skin corresponding to more intense itching and dryness of the skin in patients with AD.

Why is the pH changed in atopic skin? Several factors have been suggested. The levels of free amino acids and urocanic acid, which are believed to be involved in creating an acidic environment in the stratum corneum, are markedly reduced in atopic skin. A prerequisite for this is a deficiency of the protein filaggrin. Sweat rich in lactic acid is also believed to contribute to the formation of an acid mantle that reduces the manifestations of AD. Finally, in AD, abnormal secretion of lamellar bodies has been noted that can influence pH, just as exocytosis of lamellar bodies is a source of protons for acidifying the stratum corneum.

Impaired barrier function in AD can be explained, in particular, by the disturbed process of synthesis, release and maturation of stratum corneum lipids, which depends on enzymes that function in an acidic environment. Abnormal organization of lipids, namely the predominance of the gel phase over the crystalline phase of lamellar structures, has been described in patients with AD. The formation of a lamellar liquid crystal phase occurs at pH values ​​of 4.5-6. Serine proteases, in particular the enzyme stratum corneum chymotrypsin, which has a pH optimum of 8, may also play a role in the pathogenesis of AD. Transgenic mice with elevated serine protease activity develop AD-like dermatosis. Expression of the enzyme chymotrypsin in the stratum corneum is significantly increased in chronic eczema. In addition, serine proteases cause itching by activating PAR-2 ​​receptors on keratinocytes and nerve cells in atopic skin.

Ichthyosis

Öhman & Vahlquist found that skin pH was significantly higher in patients with ichthyosis vulgaris (5.3 ± 0.7) than in patients with x-linked ichthyosis (4.6 ± 0.4) and healthy subjects (4.5 ± 0.2). Filaggrin is known to be reduced in ichthyosis vulgaris and is also thought to play a role in acidifying the stratum corneum. Conversely, in X-linked ichthyosis, steroid sulfatase leads to the accumulation of cholesterol sulfate and the leveling of the pH gradient. Enzymes involved in desquamation are pH dependent and pH changes interfere with normal desquamation. The use of acid preparations with lactic acid promotes keratolysis and is effective in ichthyosis.

candidal intertrigo

Candida albicans, a dimorphic yeast, is pH dependent. An acidic pH promotes the formation of blastospores of the fungus, and an increase in pH promotes the formation of a pathogenic mycelial form of the fungus. In one study, a C. albicans solution was applied as an occlusive dressing on the left and right forearms with different pH buffers (6.0 and 4.5). Skin reactions after 24 hours were more pronounced on the higher pH arm in 14 out of 15 people. Acidified nitrite cream is reported to have antifungal activity. Diabetics are especially prone to developing candidal intertrigo. In a study in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, skin pH was significantly higher in the skin folds of diabetics compared to healthy individuals. Interestingly, there is no difference in forearm pH between the two groups. The high pH of diabetic skin folds has been interpreted as a possible contributing factor in the susceptibility of diabetic patients to Candida infection.

Diaper dermatitis (PD)

A number of factors play a role in the development of PD, incl. prolonged exposure to urine and feces, increased hydration, changes in the microbial flora of the skin, changes in skin pH. A significant correlation was demonstrated between the severity of PD and elevated skin pH in the diaper contact area. Exposure to urine and feces generates ammonia, creating an alkaline environment. Alkaline pH activates fecal proteases and lipases, which disrupt the skin barrier. Elevated pH levels also affect susceptibility to C. albicans. C. albicans is the microorganism most commonly associated with PD. Recently, Beguin et al. tested diapers treated with acid cellulose to maintain a pH of 4.5-5.5. Resolution of existing irritant skin lesions was noted in 8 of 12 patients after switching to acidified diapers. In addition, tampons have been developed and commercially available that reduce the normally elevated vaginal pH during menstruation. Vaginal pH in healthy premenopausal women ranges from 3.5-4.5. Blood pH is 7.4 and vaginal pH increases during menstruation. RepHresh has created effective pH swabs containing citric acid and L-lactide, which are currently available and used to lower pH.

Irritant contact dermatitis (IRD)

Individuals prone to CKD have been shown to have higher pH values ​​compared to healthy individuals.

Mycosis stop

The pH of the skin of the feet in patients with foot mycoses was significantly higher compared to the control (healthy individuals).

acne

In vitro, P. acnes grows well at pH values ​​between 6 and 6.5, and growth is markedly reduced at pH values ​​less than 6. In the study, the number of inflammatory lesions increased in the alkaline soap group and decreased in the acidic, skin-cleansing group. .

Uremia

Skin surface pH has been shown to be significantly higher in dialysis patients compared to healthy individuals, despite the fact that dialysis patients had chronic acidemia. Skin infections, primarily fungal infections, are common in hemodialysis patients. High pH may predispose patients in this population to increased mycotic infection and suggest a possible role in uremic pruritus.

Practical use

It has been suggested that an altered pH is observed in the various dermatoses described above. Exposure to exogenous agents such as cleansers, creams, deodorants, and topical antibacterials affects skin pH and may further exacerbate the underlying disease in these patients. The choice of topical agents that maintain an acidic environment appears to be important in these patients.

Detergents

Surfactant-based detergents are known as “syndets” (liquid-based synthetic detergent). Syndets tend to be neutral or acidic (≤ pH = 7) compared to soaps, which tend to be alkaline (pH 10). Soap based detergents are known to have a higher potential to irritate the skin than syndets. Washing hands with alkaline soap increases the pH on the palms by an average of 3 units and remains unchanged for 90 minutes after washing.

Acidification of the stratum corneum

Topical alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are characteristic of drugs used in the treatment of keratinization disorders. AHAs such as lactic acid have been shown to increase ceramide production by 300% in vitro. In one study, twice daily administration of 4% l-lactic acid (pH 3.7-4.0) for 4 weeks resulted in a significant improvement in barrier function. In vivo, the total proportion of ceramides increased significantly. The ability of AHA to increase ceramide levels is beneficial in individuals with reduced barrier function, incl. with AD, in which ceramides are reduced. Studies have shown a beneficial effect of topical acid electrolyte (pH 2.0-2.7) in severe dermatitis and skin colonization by S. aureus in children and adults. The use of AHAs is also effective in irritant dermatitis.

For the treatment of skin diseases such as acne, AD, diaper rash and allergic contact dermatitis, the doctor has a number of topical and oral preparations in his arsenal. Using the right soaps and creams that do not compromise the acidic pH of the skin should be part of the treatment for these patients. It is recommended to choose the right detergents, which should have a pH between 4.5-6.5, i.e. close to the pH of normal skin. Syndets are less annoying and are preferred. Commonly used alkaline cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or resorcinol antibacterial agents (such as triclocarban or triclosan), although effective in eradicating staphylococci and gram-negative bacteria, have a pH of 9-10 and can cause skin irritation, so their daily use Not recommended. Often, patients with diaper rash or acne, believing that their skin conditions are due to poor hygiene, overuse alkaline soaps, which often aggravates the situation. Proper education and appropriate recommendations for topical treatment are critical in these situations.

conclusions

In the last decade, the role of skin pH as a factor providing the barrier function of the stratum corneum has been investigated. There is probably still much to be learned in this area. We know that many skin diseases are characterized by damage to the barrier function with abnormal pH values. This should guide the physician to maintain or restore the acidic environment by choosing the optimal topical agent that can effectively maintain the acid mantle of the skin.

How to determine the pH level of the skin, how to maintain it in the norm (and whether it is necessary), whether to select cosmetics depending on the acid-base balance indicator - read about all this in our article.

Translated from Latin, pH (pondus Hydrogenii) means "power of hydrogen". Since the days of school, everyone has known that the pH of the skin is an indicator of acid and alkali. And, perhaps, this is where most people's knowledge of the acid-base environment ends.

To correct this injustice, Letidor called for help Maria Burakova, a cosmetologist of the Orange beauty salon network (St. Petersburg).

Fact number 1: the health of our body depends on the acid-base balance

The acid-base environment has a lot of functions. The correct cell division, the work of enzymes, the production of hormones, energy exchange, protection from pathogenic flora, the rate of renewal of the stratum corneum of our skin depend on it.

Our body is designed in such a way that it regulates the pH in each cell.

With strong acidification or alkalization, cells die. Therefore, it is very important to maintain the acid-base balance.

Products in the photo: hydrophilic oil for removing makeup and impurities, Dermalogica; regenerating cream Regen Ceutic, Dermaceutic; facial mist Goog Cera, Holika Holika; ultra-moisturizing serum with bioactive water, TOPICREM; floral tonic spray, Kypwell; micellar water with herbs, Kiehl's

Fact #2: The pH level of the skin can be determined by the condition of its integument

The optimal pH level of the skin is considered to be 5.5 (from 3.5 to 5.9). At the same time, oily skin has a more alkaline environment - 5.7-6, and dry skin has an acidic environment - 3-5.2.

You can independently determine the acid-base balance by certain signs: if the skin has become more sensitive, irritated, excessive peeling, dryness, tightness has appeared, then we can say that the pH has shifted to the acid side.

But the appearance of acne on the face, inflammatory elements, excessive greasiness, oily sheen, enlargement of the pores indicates that alkalization of the skin occurs.

Also at home, you can use litmus papers, which are sold at any pharmacy. However, this method is ineffective.

There are also various tests, answering the questions of which, you can understand your level of acidity.

And cosmetologists have a special device, a pH meter, which accurately determines the level of acidity.

Fact #3: Skin pH is constantly changing

The pH level of the skin can change throughout the day. It depends on proper care, skin cleansing and the use of high-quality cosmetics, on the degree of water hardness, on diet (for example, sweets acidify our body, but spicy and salty ones alkalize), on drinking alcohol, on drinking regimen, on taking medications.

Of course, the pH of the skin also changes throughout the year. It depends on solar radiation, on how competently we protected the skin from ultraviolet radiation.

As soon as our skin reacted to the usual, it would seem, factors not in the way we are used to or expected, we can talk about a shift in the acid balance in one direction or another.

Fact #4: Abnormal Skin pH Can Cause Damage to the Skin's Barrier Function

When the pH shifts towards an alkaline environment, the sebaceous glands begin to secrete more sebum, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. As a result, acne, comedones and other inflammations appear on the face.

When the pH shifts towards an acidic environment, the skin becomes very dry. Microcracks appear on such skin, which can subsequently become infected with bacteria and cause irritation and skin diseases.

To balance the pH of the skin, you need to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right, select high-quality certified cosmetics for home care, protect your skin from sunlight and visit a beautician regularly.

Fact #5: The pH of cosmetics can differ from the pH of the skin

You need to use cosmetics individually, choosing it according to your skin type. Keep in mind that the pH of cosmetics may differ from the pH of the skin.

For example, oily and problematic skin with a pH level of 5.7-6 (alkaline) needs to be acidified. The most optimal cosmetic products will be preparations with a pH level of 4.0–4.5.

Thin and sensitive skin with a pH below 4.5 needs products with a pH of 5.5, as other products can cause irritation and flaking.

But normal skin requires the application of cosmetics with a balanced pH to maintain its protective properties.

Frequent and improper use of aggressive peels at home, as well as prolonged use of cosmetics with AHA acids, can damage the water-lipid layer and cause skin irritation.

Therefore, it is very important to control the use of such cosmetics and strictly follow the recommendations of the beautician.

Fact #6: The pH of cosmetics can be determined at home

Manufacturers do not always indicate the pH level of a cosmetic product on the packaging. In order to recognize it, you can use special test strips (for this, a teaspoon of the product is mixed with four teaspoons of water).

If you do not have such strips on hand, then pay attention to how you feel after using the cream. You are comfortable - it means that the product is suitable, you can continue to use it.

And if the cream does not suit you, then the skin will react to it with redness, peeling, itching, dryness, or, conversely, oily sheen, black dots, acne, clogged pores.

Fact # 7: Toners normalize the pH balance of the skin

Washing with hard tap water and using alkaline cleansers upset the acid balance. The use of a tonic helps to quickly restore pH, bring it back to normal.

In addition, the tonic is a conductor of beneficial substances applied to the skin after its use from serums and creams. It has powerful refreshing properties.

But you need to select a tonic purely individually, taking into account the characteristics of the dermis.

It is better to entrust this mission to a specialist who will select individual care for you.

Recently, in the cosmetic market, manufacturers have increasingly begun to indicate the pH level on the packages of foams or gels for washing. We invite you to figure out right now what this abbreviation means, why this indicator is needed and how to choose cosmetics with an optimal pH level for yourself. At the end of the article, you will find a selection of specific cleansing products, created specifically by the professionals of the team.website

What is the pH level of the skin?

Human skin contains water molecules, and therefore has its own acid-base balance (pH), which can vary depending on the condition of the skin. In other words, the pH of the skin shows the ratio of acid and alkali on its surface.

The pH value can vary from 0 to 14. Each number characterizes a specific environment. This is clearly seen in the image below:

Scientific studies of large groups of people have shown that the pH of the surface of the dermis can vary in the range from 4 to 7. At the same time, a direct relationship between the pH level and the type of our skin has been established. Dry skin is characterized by a balance of 5.7 to 7, which indicates a dominant acidic environment. Numbers from 4 to 5.2 are typical for oily skin, in which an alkaline environment prevails.

The optimal pH balance of the skin on the face is 5.5. And it is with this indicator that the high resistance of the skin to bacteria, infections and other external irritating factors is ensured. As soon as there is a shift in one direction or another, skin problems begin.

How to determine the pH level

In cosmetology rooms for determining pH, portable electronic testers with an indicator or a glass electrode are used to determine the level of acidity in numerical terms - pH meters. But you can do it yourself by paying attention to the type of imperfections that are bothering you.

If the pH is too low, this will be indicated by factors such as skin peeling, severe dryness and tightness, itching, redness, and there will also be an unpleasant or even painful reaction when applying decorative cosmetics. Elevated pH levels give out oily sheen, rashes and enlarged pores.

What cosmetics to choose?

Using too harsh cleansers in our care, for example, ordinary soap, we disrupt the acid-base balance, causing inflammation, acne, a feeling of dryness or peeling. That is why, when choosing a foam for washing, you need to pay attention to this indicator.

In this article, we have compiled for you a selection of products that will work effectively, but at the same time gently and gently.

Ideal for morning skin cleansing. Perfectly removes excess skin sebum and dead cells, gives a feeling of cleanliness, hydration and comfort for the whole day. Does not dry out, does not cause peeling, irritation and a feeling of tightness.

designed to cleanse the skin of makeup. The tool penetrates deep into the pores and perfectly copes with any pollution. The special formula of the product allows it to be used for all skin types.

Gently and carefully removes any dirt. The special composition of the product ensures the maintenance of the optimal pH balance of the skin and improves its condition. The product perfectly nourishes, moisturizes, soothes the skin, promotes regeneration, makes the skin smooth and silky.

has a low acid-base balance and therefore does not disturb the natural pH of the skin. The foam does not dry out and does not provoke a feeling of tightness, while the product perfectly cleanses the skin of impurities, moisturizes and softens, has an anti-inflammatory effect, tones and improves complexion.

Designed specifically for sensitive and dry skin. Its main advantage is low acidity, which neutralizes the harmful effects of hard running water and restores the acid-base balance of the skin. The foam cleanses well, does not dry out and prevents inflammation.

In conclusion, we want to note that any cleansing of the face, even just with running water, without the use of cosmetic foam, disrupts the natural pH balance of the skin and destroys its protective barrier. For this reason, after washing, be sure to use a refreshing toner and moisturizer. Do not neglect this rule and choose soft cleansers.

Hi all!

I invite you to Friday "talk" :)

What is skin pH? Do you pay attention to the funds aimed at balancing the acid-base balance? And how to choose the right care, guided by knowledge of the pH of your skin?

We all dream of finding effective facial skin care products that will immediately solve all our problems. We read various forums and reviews, try to figure out intricate compositions, translate tons of samplers in search of the one that suits us.

Have you ever faced a situation where a product that seems to suit everyone, on which a lot of laudatory reviews have been written, does not work exactly on your skin so perfectly? Or even worse - provokes redness, rashes or peeling?

Lately, I've been seeing more and more skin care recommendations based on pH.
In annotations and posts about skincare products, we often come across the following phrases: “neutral pH”, “pH balanced”, “restores skin pH”, “identical to skin pH”, “maintains skin pH balance”, “regulates pH, etc.
But when I try to understand and read literature, I get more and more confused.

The abbreviation pH is used to denote the ratio of acid to base and is measured on a scale of 0 to 14.

On the surface of the skin of the face there is a thin hydrolipidic film that makes up the protective layer of the epidermis, with the help of which the body resists external influences: dirt, infections, dry air, etc. Scientists have proven that the pH of the protective layer of the skin, as a rule, is acidic, and fluctuates in the pH range of 4-7 - it is in such an environment that the usual skin microflora is able to exist normally, releasing certain substances that prevent the colonization of the skin by pathogenic bacteria that prefer a higher level. pH.

There are many factors that affect the pH level of the skin, from our diet to the way we wash our face with water. Normal PH is considered to be an indicator of 5.5 - this is the boundary state between an alkaline and acidic environment. If the PH level is above or below this figure, then this indicates skin problems. The prevalence of an acidic environment is expressed in a decrease in the indicator: PH balance from 3 to 5.5 is typical for oily skin. If the indicators are above the neutral value, then the alkaline environment takes over and the skin becomes dry.

That is, we can conclude that even with daily washing (pH of water fluctuates around 7), we already injure the skin, and if normal skin needs several hours to restore its original pH level, then it is more difficult for dry or oily skin to do this. Therefore, it is important to choose the right care (not only washing, but also the subsequent stages) based on the needs of our skin in order to help it in its daily struggle with negative factors.

And here a logical question arises: what to do to even out the pH balance of the skin and make it perfect? How to choose care in such a way that it does not harm, and even helps?

Some articles strongly recommend using pH balancers labeled 5.5. Others suggest maintaining the existing pH level in comfortable conditions and using, for example, products with a more acidic composition for oily skin and, conversely, more alkaline for dry skin. Still others argue that you need to strive to restore the level by choosing the opposite skin pH product.

Many bloggers generally advise combining skin care products with different acid-base indicators for the skin, for example, according to the following scheme: choose cleansers and tonics that are as close as possible to the pH of the skin, that is, more acidic (with acids in the composition) or neutral (balanced pH = 5.5), and for balance, choose moisturizing serums and creams.

What do you think about it? Do you think it is necessary to be guided by the pH level of the skin when choosing facial products? Do you pay attention to the "neutral pH" label? And how to choose the right products based on the pH of the skin?

Perhaps my question is very basic and will seem quite simple to someone, but I would really like to know not only the opinion of experts and people who understand, but also those who choose their own daily care.

P.S. I beg you not to swear in the comments. Please, let's discuss the issue as honestly as possible.