What is pH balanced and how does it effect your skin?

Have you ever read “pH balanced” and wondered what that meant?

The abbreviation for “potential hydrogen,” pH, refers to the balance of acids in substances. pH levels range from 0 to 14, with anything below 7 being acidic, and anything above, alkaline. The further pH shifts from 7, the stronger the solution.

Although 7 is considered a neutral pH level, your ideal skin balance should be more acidic. In fact, a pH level of 5.5 is perfect because this allows some acids on your skin to naturally fight off bacteria that can lead to breakouts. If your skin is overly neutralized by acid-wiping skincare products, you may notice even more of those stubborn clogged pores and breakouts.

On the flip side, making the skin too alkaline can also bring about a slew of issues. A skin pH that is too high can immediately result in dryness and premature aging.

Also, your pores will respond to this excessive dryness in a panic by producing even more sebum. This is one of the reasons why you may get pimples despite having dry skin.

Pharmaceutical grade products are pH balanced for the skin of the face and, because they’re concentrated, are a better value than mass-market and department store brands. All Image Skincare products are pH balanced!

Eating for Skin Health

The saying “you are what you eat” couldn’t be truer when it comes to skin health. Getting the right skincare products is just half of the battle in the quest for optimal pH. It is also important to eat the right foods to balance your acid mantle. All foods and drinks have different levels in terms of acidity and alkalinity. This doesn’t mean you have to give up citrus fruits, wine, coffee, and tea altogether, but you should consider balancing out these daily choices with less acidic ones. Examples of alkaline food choices include leafy green vegetables, rice, berries, melons, green tea and beans.

Healthy eating does the body good, and your skin will thank you for it for years to come. But if your skin lacks luster and breaks out despite using quality skincare products and eating well, come in and see me for some guidance!