- PH is the measure of hydrogen ion concentration and represents two extremes, acids and bases. The lower a pH level, the more acidic the environment is. The higher the pH level, the more basic, or alkaline, the environment is. A pH of 7 is considered to be neutral.
Skin pH is influenced by the presence of lactic acid, several amino acids, free fatty acids and pyrrolidine carboxylic acid and amino acids from the skin's cornification process. The average healthy adult should have a skin pH level that falls in the range of 4 to 6.5. Babies are born with a higher skin pH level, but it falls within normal range within three days.
Skin pH is altered by exposure to soaps and detergents, but generally returns to a normal level within a few hours. Skin pH can also be temporarily or permanently changed by skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, eczema and dry skin. Chronic renal failure, cerebrovascular disease and diabetes can also increase a skin's pH level. In these cases, it is thought that abnormal sweat secretion contributes to a more basic skin surface environment, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungus.
Maintain your skin's proper pH level by avoiding excessive hand washing. Choose soaps, detergents and other cleansers that are more acidic, as they are less irritating than cleansers with a more alkaline or neutral pH. Acidic cleansers will have a lower pH and contain formulas that are referred to as "syndet." If you have dry skin, use acidic cleansers only. If you're prone to skin sensitivity and reactions, however, use acidic cleansers that have a slightly neutral pH.
Use cosmetics that have a pH level that is close to your skin's pH level. If you must use cosmetics or other products with a higher pH, compensate for the higher pH by using a skin toner. Skin toners work by cleansing your skin of cosmetics, dirt and other impurities, while not affecting the pH level. Always avoid alcohol-based skin care products, as alcohol can increase acidity.
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