What Is pH? And What Does It Have to Do With My Skin?
Skin Care Skincare What Is pH
So, what is it? We actually have three layers to our skin. One is the stratum corneum. The other two are the epidermis. These layers are made up of the fatty tissue and connective tissues.
In fact, when you get a burn, it's the inflammation that gets to start up at this point. The excess moisture that has gotten on your skin gets trapped inside the epidermis. This is the layer that we typically call "peeling skin". It's the job of the skin to protect us by making sure that we stay moist. As we age, or as people who are prone to acne are exposed to more toxins, this barrier can be lowered. One of the worst things for your skin at this point is for it to become dry. When it's dry, it produces less natural oils. It also allows more sebum (oils produced by the sebaceous glands) to come out of the pores. This oil mixes with bacteria and dead cells, clogging them up.
Dry skin also means that there are fewer oils to protect the skin. Bacteria can infest the pores and cause an infection. Acne will also be more problematic. If you don't have enough oil in the face to prevent these problems, then there is no way that you'll escape the discomfort. If you do have enough, however, it will be easier to control the acne.
So, what is pH? The pH level of your skin is determined by what you eat. Eating lots of acidic foods will make the skin become drier. Inversely, eating plenty of alkaline-based foods will make the skin more oily. Basically, the key is to balance the acid-to-alkaline ratio in your body.
That's why washing your face is so important. When you wash your face in lukewarm water, you're keeping the face away from the higher concentration of alkaline-based chemicals. That concentration can cause irritation. Even a mild facial cleanser works.
So, what is pH? It's the base level of your skin's pH level. Too low, and you'll be more likely to develop infections and other conditions. Too high, and your face could become severely inflamed. Knowing how to adjust the pH level of your face can keep you from those possibilities.
There are several ways to do that. To start, drink a lot of water. Not just plain water, but alkaline water. That way, you'll get the moisture your skin needs. Avoid products that have harsh soaps or detergents. They strip the skin of its natural oils.
Exfoliate your face regularly. Your cleansers may not target the bacteria that cause acne, but they will dry up the dead skin cells that have clogged your pores. A dead skin cell doesn't shed. It can end up back on your face at any time. Using an exfoliant twice a day will help keep your face clean and fresh looking.
If you exfoliate too often, your skin may become overly dry. Then you may need a moisturizer. Find one that contains alphahydroxy acids, or AHAs. These ingredients can actually balance out the pH level of your face. The result is softer, younger-looking skin.
Your diet may be important in controlling your pH level. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will help. Try eating more protein, too. It makes sense that eating acidic foods will bring about an alkaline environment in your body, so the opposite is true.
When you are dealing with your face, it's easy to get caught up in the daily hustle and bustle. But you shouldn't have to. Instead, focus on taking care of yourself. It will make all the difference in the world as you strive to maintain the pH balance of your skin.