Do you know the pH of your daily skin care?
We have all heard of pH. At the latest when the doctor has measured it in the urine in order to check the acid-base balance. But very few of us know the skin pH, which is actually lower than in the body, and even less that of our skin care products.
The pH level is an important parameter for the much-vaunted glow and health of our skin. As long as it doesn’t cause problems, who cares. But if redness, peeling and itching become noticeable, you should know what the pH value is like and, if necessary, reconsider your care habits. During my research, I discovered how seldom it is actually shown on products. But first a little more to understand:
Back to school
pH stands for “potential of hydrogen”), it is derived from the Latin word “potentia hydrogenii“. This differentiates alkalis from acids. The value scale ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic / alkaline. Neutral pure water is in the middle and has a pH of 7. Everything below that counts as acid, from 7 onwards the alkalis start. A pH value lower than 2 or higher than 12 must be understood as extremes that are harmful to the skin and can lead to chemical burns. This is what makes chemical peels – in this case the desired – effect. Lactic acid for example has a pH of 1.8.
Where is water, there is a pH
This also applies to the human body. If it consists of 95% water at birth, it is still almost 70% in adulthood, which corresponds to a water volume of approx. 43 liters. The skin has its own pH. According to the latest research, the healthy, so-called skin surface pH should reach 4.7 / 4.8. The previous average of 5.5 is considered out of date. An enormous challenge for cosmetics producers, because most products on the market are well above this value. In any case, the healthy environment of our skin is slightly acidic. Only then is it able to successfully ward off harmful microorganisms and other external environmental influences
Just don’t irritate!
The task of our skin care is to maintain this physiological acidity. But that’s when it often begins that we do too much of a good thing and unconsciously harm our skin rather than good. What does that mean exactly? Actually, you should avoid everything that dries them out, such as constant disinfection and frequent washing.… weiterlesen
CultureAndCream Author from Munich
To travel during my profession as a beauty journalist was never enough for my. Also my six month on a world trip didn’t do it. It always attracts me to other cities, foreign countries, on roadtrips and places I don’t know yet. But I am not only interested in “culture” and “cream”, I am also fascinated by people who have stories to tell . Such unique experiences I want to share with you.
