Buzz
If you've ever paid attention to ads or product labels, you've probably encountered the term 'pH balanced' attached to everything from soaps to shampoos and toners. You likely assume it's something beneficial, considering how often it's emphasized by personal care brands. But what does this term really mean? Here's a quick overview of what pH balance is and how it relates to skin cleansers:
What is pH?
'pH' stands for 'potential hydrogen.' In simple terms, it indicates whether a liquid is acidic or alkaline. On a scale of 0 to 14, a pH below 7 is acidic, above 7 is alkaline, and a pH of 7 (like water) is neutral—meaning the acids and bases balance out.
While the difference between a pH of 7 and 6 might seem small, each step on the scale actually reflects a tenfold change in acidity or alkalinity. For example, milk has a pH of 6, making it ten times more acidic than water.
The Importance of a Cleanser's pH
The skin’s natural pH is around 5.5, slightly acidic, which helps it protect against germs and retain moisture. The perfect cleanser should effectively remove dirt and oil while preserving this natural acidity. Soaps with a pH between 9 and 12 (like many body soaps) tend to be too alkaline, which can dry out the skin even though they remove dirt. For instance, lye soap, with a pH of 13, can clean but also cause damage and irritation.
A cleanser with a pH just below 9 will help maintain moisture and the skin's integrity, and most non-soap cleansers fall within this range. However, the term 'pH-balanced' used by manufacturers is mostly a marketing strategy.
How to Check a Product's pH
To avoid harshly alkaline cleansers, it’s best to check the pH level of your product. The challenge is that most products don't list this information on their labels. If you're curious about the pH of your current cleansers, you can easily test them at home with a pH test strip.
Litmus paper, available at most drugstores and pharmacies, can quickly indicate whether a liquid is acidic, neutral, or basic. For a more detailed reading, look for pH paper, which uses a color-coded system to show precise acid and alkaline levels.
Now that you understand the real meaning of pH and its effects on your skin, you can make informed choices when selecting skin cleansers that nourish rather than harm.
Turn to the next page for even more useful skin care tips and advice.
