A Balancing Act: The Optimal pH for Healthy, Dewy Skin

Did you know there’s science behind a balanced complexion? That your skin type is largely dependent on its pH? Well, it’s true. And since knowledge is power, especially when it comes to skincare, you’ve come to the right spot. But, don’t worry, we’re not expecting you to be a chemist — we’ll keep it simple and stick to the basics.

What is the pH of skin?

Thinking back to chemistry class, you may recall learning about the pH scale, which measures how acidic or basic an object is from zero to 14. On the scale, zero is the most acidic, seven is neutral, and 14 is the most basic (or alkaline).

When it comes to skin, a normal, healthy complexion — meaning one that’s neither too dry nor too oily — has a pH that ranges from about 5.4 to 5.9. While you may be surprised that skin isn’t neutral, it’s slightly acidic for a reason. Not only does this acidity help to protect it from harmful bacteria, but it helps your body balance skin’s natural oils, too.

What happens if your skin pH is off?

If your skin’s pH is imbalanced, you’ll experience different skin concerns depending on which side of the scale it falls. Generally speaking, if your skin is too acidic (from 0 to 5.4), it often shows in the form of excess oil and breakouts. Alternatively, if your skin is too basic (from 5.9 to 14), you’ll notice dryness and flakiness. In more stubborn cases, a disruption in pH balance can show in the form of cystic acne, redness, inflammation, sensitivity, or even chronic conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.

How do I balance my skin’s pH?

To balance your skin for a noticeably healthy complexion, exfoliation and hydration are essential. By regularly exfoliating, you remove dead skin cells and unclog pores of impurities so your skin is left fresh, rejuvenated, and prepared to more effectively absorb nourishing ingredients. Queue the hydration step, which helps feed back the skin so it’s left replenished and dewy.