pH Play: The Key to Healthy Skin Every Day

Have you ever found yourself in the skincare aisle, staring at endless bottles and labels, feeling completely overwhelmed? Skin sensitivity is a common issue, particularly for many Indians, who often choose popular brands without knowing whether the products will suit their skin. This can lead to damaged skin and further complications. Understanding your skin’s pH is crucial to avoid these pitfalls.

Before knowing what the ideal pH for your skin is, it’s essential to understand the significance of pH itself. What exactly is pH, and why should you care about it? pH (potential of hydrogen) quantifies the acidity or alkalinity of a substance on a scale ranging from 0 to 14. The lower the pH, the more acidic; the higher the pH, the more alkaline. So, how does this relate to skin health? 

Skin pH level influences the skin’s barrier function, moisture retention, microbial balance, and the development of conditions like acne, eczema, and infections. Understanding how pH affects the skin can help make informed choices about skincare products and routines.

Our skin’s natural pH is slightly acidic, typically between 4.5 and 5.5. The ideal pH for healthy skin is slightly acidic as this level maintains the acid mantle — a protective barrier with several benefits. 

It helps:

• Protect against bacteria: A slightly acidic environment makes it harder for harmful microbes to grow.
• Lock in moisture: Maintaining this balance helps prevent dryness and irritation.
• Keep the skin barrier strong against free radicals, which may accelerate ageing. 

An elevated pH (more alkaline) can weaken the skin's protective barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity to environmental irritants. Further, it may encourage the overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria (such as Propionibacterium acnes), leading to clogged pores and inflammation. 

At-home pH test strips are an easy and affordable way to measure your skin’s pH level. 

Start by washing the area of your skin you want to test. It’s best to wait an hour after cleansing to get an accurate result, as water and products can temporarily alter your skin’s pH. Press the test strip onto your skin for a few seconds. The strip will change colour according to your skin’s pH level. Compare the strip's colour to the pH scale chart provided with the kit. Dermatologists use specialised tools that are much more accurate than home test strips.

Research shows that melanosomes (the organelles that produce and store melanin -  the skin pigment responsible for skin colour) in light-skinned individuals tend to be more acidic. In contrast, the melanosomes in darker skin are closer to a neutral pH.

Balancing your skin’s pH balance is crucial for a healthy complexion and effective barrier function. Here’s how you can do it with the right care and products:

• Use pH-balanced skincare products
  Look for cleansers and toners that have a pH close to 5.5. These products are gentle on your skin and help prevent the disruption of your acid mantle.
• Avoid harsh soaps
  Many soaps are highly alkaline, with a pH above 7, which can strip away your skin’s natural oils and disturb its protective barrier. Opt for mild, non-alkaline cleansers to keep your skin's pH in check.
• Avoid over-exfoliation
  Skincare products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) tend to lower skin pH, and overuse or misuse of these products can make the skin too acidic, leading to irritation and sensitivity.
• Moisturise regularly
  Moisturisers lock in hydration, soothe dry or irritated skin, and support the acid mantle. Choose ones with skin-repairing ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which not only hydrate but also help restore your skin’s natural defences.
• Use acidic toners
  If your skin tends to be more alkaline, acidic toners can help bring it back into balance. Toners with a pH between 4 and 5.5 can neutralise the skin, maintaining the ideal pH and preparing your skin for the next steps in your routine, like moisturising.
• Use sunscreen regularly
  Environmental elements such as pollution, UV exposure, and even hard water can affect skin pH. Protecting the skin from such elements through sunscreen and antioxidant-rich products can help maintain its balance.

Various factors can make your skin’s pH too acidic or too alkaline:

• Harsh cleansers and soaps: Products with high pH levels strip away your skin’s natural oils.
• Over-exfoliation: Too much exfoliation can disrupt your skin’s protective barrier.
• Environmental factors: Pollution and sun exposure can alter your skin’s pH.
• Age and genetics: Our skin’s pH naturally becomes more alkaline as we age.

While we know our ideal skin pH level, it’s natural to wonder which pH is not good for the skin.  High pH (above 7) and very low (below 4) can cause issues. The key is to avoid extremes on either side:

• High pH (alkaline): Skin that becomes too alkaline (above pH 7) is more prone to dryness, irritation, and infections like acne.
• Low pH (too Acidic): Skin with an overly acidic pH (below 4) may become sensitive, red, and inflamed and can lead to excessive oil production.

Your skin’s pH is more than just a number — it’s the foundation of its health. Understanding the significance of pH levels allows you to make an informed decision about the products you use, ensuring they align with your skin's natural balance. By prioritising pH awareness, you can maintain a healthy complexion and prevent issues like dryness, irritation, and breakouts. Ultimately, recognising the role of pH in your skincare routine empowers you to nurture your skin effectively, leading to a radiant and resilient appearance.